Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) are companies that own, operate or finance real estate. These companies allow investors to invest in real estate without actually owning it and offer a variety of career opportunities in the real estate industry. In this article, we will discuss the five highest paying REIT jobs and what makes them so lucrative.
Chief Investment Officer (CIO)
The Chief Investment Officer (CIO) is responsible for developing and implementing investment strategies for the REIT. They oversee the company’s investment portfolio and ensure it is diversified and profitable. The CIO also manages relationships with external investment partners such as brokers and investment banks.
The average salary for a REIT CIO is around $300,000 per year, making it one of the highest paying jobs in the industry. To qualify for this position, candidates typically need a bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, or a related field, as well as several years of investment management experience.
chief financial officer (CFO)
The chief financial officer (CFO) is responsible for overseeing the REIT’s financial operations. Manages the company’s financial reporting, budgeting and forecasting, as well as its cash flow and capital management. The CFO also works closely with the CIO to ensure that the company’s investments are financially sound.

The average salary for a CFO in a REIT is around $250,000 per year, making it another highly lucrative job in the industry. To become a CFO, candidates typically need a bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance, as well as several years of experience in financial management.
Real estate portfolio manager
The real estate portfolio manager is responsible for managing the REIT’s properties. They oversee real estate acquisitions, dispositions, and leases, as well as real estate management and maintenance. The Real Estate Portfolio Manager also works closely with the CIO to develop and implement investment strategies.
The average salary for a real estate portfolio manager at a REIT is around $150,000 per year. To qualify for this position, candidates typically need a bachelor’s degree in real estate, business, or a related field, as well as several years of experience in property management.
Real estate investment analyst
The Real Estate Investment Analyst is responsible for analyzing and evaluating potential real estate investments for REITs. They conduct market research, financial analysis and real estate due diligence, and prepare investment reports for the CIO and other executives.
The average salary for a real estate investment analyst in a REIT is around $100,000 per year. To become a real estate investment analyst, candidates typically need a bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, or a related field, as well as strong analytical skills and experience in real estate analysis.
Investment manager
The asset manager is responsible for managing the real estate assets of the REIT. They oversee the management, leasing and maintenance of properties as well as develop and implement strategies to maximize the value of the company’s property portfolio. The asset manager also works closely with the property portfolio manager to ensure effective property management.
The average salary for an asset manager at a REIT is around $120,000 per year. To become an Asset Manager, candidates typically need a bachelor’s degree in real estate, business, or a related field, as well as several years of experience in property management.
Conclusion
REITs offer a variety of job opportunities in the real estate industry, and many of these jobs offer high salaries and opportunities for advancement. The five highest paying REIT jobs include Chief Investment Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Real Estate Portfolio Manager, Real Estate Investment Analyst and Asset Manager. Each of these positions requires a different skill set see more