Salary for Skilled Jobs in the USA
| Job | Entry | Mid-Level | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrician | $45k | $70k | $95k |
| Plumber | $48k | $75k | $100k |
| Registered Nurse | $60k | $85k | $110k |
From Lowest to Highest Pay (All Levels + Requirements)
Understanding how salaries progress—from entry-level to top USA Financial earners—helps you see which careers grow the fastest and which ones offer the best long-term value. Below is a well-structured comparison table showing major skilled jobs ranked from lowest starting pay to highest top-tier earnings, along with clear requirements.
Full Salary Comparison Table (Lowest → Highest)
| Rank | Job Title | Entry Salary | Mid-Level Salary | Senior Salary | Top Earners | Requirements | Time to Enter |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | HVAC Technician | $40,000 | $65,000 | $90,000 | $95,000 | Trade School + Certification | 6–12 months |
| 2 | Electrician | $45,000 | $70,000 | $95,000 | $100,000+ | Apprenticeship + License | 1–4 years |
| 3 | Plumber | $48,000 | $75,000 | $100,000 | $110,000 | Trade Certification | 1–3 years |
| 4 | Truck Driver (CDL) | $50,000 | $75,000 | $90,000 | $100,000+ | CDL License | 3–6 months |
| 5 | Registered Nurse | $60,000 | $85,000 | $110,000 | $120,000 | Nursing Degree + License | 2–4 years |
| 6 | Mechanical Engineer | $65,000 | $95,000 | $120,000 | $135,000 | Bachelor’s Degree | 4 years |
| 7 | Data Analyst | $65,000 | $95,000 | $120,000 | $130,000 | Degree or Certifications | 1–4 years |
| 8 | Construction Manager | $70,000 | $100,000 | $130,000 | $150,000 | Degree or Experience | 3–6 years |
| 9 | Software Developer | $70,000 | $110,000 | $140,000 | $160,000+ | Bachelor’s or Coding Bootcamp | 6 months–4 yrs |
| 10 | Cybersecurity Specialist | $80,000 | $115,000 | $150,000 | $170,000+ | Degree + Certifications | 1–4 years |
Clear Salary Growth Breakdown
1. Lowest Paying Entry-Level (Fast Entry Careers)
| Job | Entry | Growth Potential | Key Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| HVAC Technician | $40k | Moderate | Quick entry, steady income |
| Truck Driver | $50k | Moderate-High | Fast income growth without degree |
These jobs:
- Require short training periods
- Offer quick income access
- Have lower entry barriers
2. Mid-Tier Careers (Balanced Growth)
| Job | Entry | Mid-Level | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrician | $45k | $70k | $95k |
| Plumber | $48k | $75k | $100k |
| Registered Nurse | $60k | $85k | $110k |
These careers:
- Provide strong income growth over time
- Often reach $100k+ without advanced degrees
- Offer high job stability
3. High-Paying Professional Careers
| Job | Entry | Mid-Level | Senior | Top |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanical Engineer | $65k | $95k | $120k | $135k |
| Data Analyst | $65k | $95k | $120k | $130k |
These careers:
- Require formal education
- Offer steady, predictable salary growth
- Provide long-term career security
4. Highest Paying Careers (Fastest Growth)
| Job | Entry | Mid-Level | Senior | Top |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developer | $70k | $110k | $140k | $160k+ |
| Cybersecurity Specialist | $80k | $115k | $150k | $170k+ |
These careers:
- Have highest earning ceilings
- Experience rapid salary growth
- Are driven by high demand and skill scarcity
Salary Growth Comparison (Side-by-Side)
| Career Type | Entry Salary | Max Salary | Growth Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trades | $40k–$50k | $95k–$110k | +$50k–$60k |
| Healthcare | $60k | $120k | +$60k |
| Engineering | $65k | $135k | +$70k |
| Tech | $70k–$80k | $160k–$170k | +$90k–$100k |
| Logistics | $50k | $100k | +$50k |
Requirements Comparison Table
| Career Field | Education Needed | Certification Needed | Difficulty | Cost of Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trades | Low | Yes | Low | Low |
| Logistics | Low | Yes (CDL) | Low | Low |
| Healthcare | High | Yes | High | High |
| Engineering | High | Optional | High | High |
| Technology | Medium–High | Often Required | Medium | Medium–High |
Key Salary Insights (Very Important)
1. Fastest Income Growth
- Technology roles can increase salary by $80k–$100k+ over time.
2. Best Without a Degree
- Electricians and plumbers can reach $100k+ with experience.
3. Quickest Entry to Earning
- Truck drivers and HVAC technicians can start earning within months.
4. Most Stable Careers
- Healthcare and trades remain consistently in demand.
Real Difference Example (Simple Breakdown)
| Career | Start | After 5 Years | After 10 Years |
|---|---|---|---|
| Truck Driver | $50k | $75k | $90k+ |
| Electrician | $45k | $70k | $95k+ |
| Nurse | $60k | $85k | $110k |
| Software Developer | $70k | $120k | $150k+ |
| Cybersecurity | $80k | $130k | $170k+ |
Lowest vs Highest
- Lowest Entry Pay: HVAC Technician (~$40k)
- Highest Entry Pay: Cybersecurity Specialist (~$80k)
- Lowest Ceiling: HVAC (~$95k)
- Highest Ceiling: Cybersecurity (~$170k+)
Difference from lowest to highest:
Over $130,000 salary gap
The salary gap between skilled jobs in the U.S. is massive—but it is largely determined by:
- Skill complexity
- Education level
- Industry demand
- Experience
If your goal is fast income, trades and logistics are the quickest route.
If your goal is maximum long-term earnings, technology and cybersecurity dominate.
Ultimately, the best path depends on how quickly you want to start earning versus how high you want your income to grow over time.
Companies Hiring Skilled Workers in the USA
Roles, Skills Required, and Salary Differences
The U.S. job market is driven by major companies across technology, healthcare, construction, logistics, and engineering. Each company looks for specific skills—and those skills directly determine how much you can earn.
Below is a clear, structured breakdown of top companies, the skilled roles they hire for, required skills, and salary differences from entry to top levels.
Top Companies + Skilled Roles + Salary Comparison
| Company | Industry | Skilled Roles | Entry Salary | Mid-Level | Senior | Top Pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Technology | Software Engineer, Data Analyst, Cybersecurity | $90k | $130k | $180k | $220k+ | |
| Amazon | Tech/Logistics | Developer, Cloud Engineer, Operations Manager | $80k | $120k | $160k | $200k+ |
| Microsoft | Technology | Software Engineer, Security Analyst | $85k | $125k | $170k | $210k+ |
| Tesla | Engineering | Mechanical Engineer, Technician | $70k | $110k | $140k | $180k |
| Walmart | Logistics/Retail | Supply Chain Manager, Truck Driver | $50k | $80k | $120k | $150k |
| FedEx | Logistics | Driver, Operations Manager | $45k | $75k | $100k | $120k |
| General Electric | Engineering | Electrical/Mechanical Engineers | $65k | $95k | $130k | $150k |
| Pfizer | Healthcare | Lab Tech, Nurse, Research Analyst | $60k | $90k | $120k | $140k |
| Bechtel | Construction | Project Manager, Civil Engineer | $70k | $100k | $140k | $160k |
| IBM | Technology | Data Analyst, AI Engineer | $80k | $120k | $160k | $190k |
Skills Required by Industry
1. Technology Companies (Highest Paying)
Companies:
- Microsoft
- IBM
- Amazon
Required Skills
| Skill Category | Specific Skills |
|---|---|
| Programming | Python, Java, JavaScript |
| Data | SQL, Data Analysis, Machine Learning |
| Cloud | AWS, Azure, Cloud Architecture |
| Security | Cybersecurity, Risk Management |
Salary Insight
- Entry starts high ($80k–$90k)
- Top roles exceed $200k+
- Fastest salary growth among all industries
2. Engineering & Manufacturing
Companies:
- Tesla
- General Electric
- Bechtel
Required Skills
| Skill Category | Specific Skills |
|---|---|
| Engineering | CAD, Mechanical Design |
| Technical | Equipment Maintenance |
| Project Mgmt | Planning, Budgeting |
Salary Insight
- Moderate entry ($65k–$70k)
- Strong senior growth ($130k–$160k)
3. Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals
Companies:
- Pfizer
Required Skills
| Skill Category | Specific Skills |
|---|---|
| Medical | Patient Care, Clinical Skills |
| Technical | Lab Analysis, Diagnostics |
| Certification | Nursing License, Medical Certification |
Salary Insight
- Stable growth
- Peaks around $120k–$140k
- High job security
4. Logistics & Transportation
Companies:
- Amazon
- FedEx
- Walmart
Required Skills
| Skill Category | Specific Skills |
|---|---|
| Driving | CDL License |
| Operations | Supply Chain Management |
| Management | Logistics Coordination |
Salary Insight
- Lower entry ($45k–$50k)
- Can exceed $100k with experience or ownership roles
Salary Difference by Company Type
| Company Type | Entry Pay | Top Pay | Growth Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Big Tech | $80k | $220k+ | +$140k |
| Engineering | $65k | $160k | +$95k |
| Healthcare | $60k | $140k | +$80k |
| Logistics | $45k | $120k | +$75k |
Skills vs Salary Impact
High-Income Skills (Top Tier)
| Skill | Salary Impact |
|---|---|
| Cybersecurity | Very High ($150k+) |
| Cloud Computing | Very High ($140k+) |
| AI / Machine Learning | Extremely High ($160k+) |
Medium-Income Skills
| Skill | Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Mechanical Engineering | $90k–$130k |
| Data Analysis | $95k–$130k |
Entry-Level Skills (Faster Access)
| Skill | Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Driving (CDL) | $50k–$90k |
| HVAC | $40k–$90k |
| Electrical Work | $45k–$100k |
Career Path Example by Company
Example: Tech Career (Amazon / Google)
| Stage | Role | Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Entry | Junior Developer | $80k–$90k |
| Mid | Software Engineer | $120k–$140k |
| Senior | Senior Engineer | $160k–$200k+ |
Example: Trade Career
| Stage | Role | Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Entry | Apprentice | $40k–$50k |
| Mid | Skilled Worker | $70k–$80k |
| Senior | Master / Contractor | $100k+ |
Example: Healthcare Career
| Stage | Role | Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Entry | Nurse | $60k |
| Mid | Experienced RN | $85k |
| Senior | Specialist | $110k–$120k |
Key Takeaways
1. Highest Paying Companies
- Tech companies like Google and Microsoft dominate salary levels.
2. Fastest Career Growth
- Tech roles grow fastest in salary over time.
3. Best Without Degree
- Logistics and trade roles at companies like FedEx and Walmart still offer strong income potential.
4. Most Stable Careers
- Healthcare roles at companies like Pfizer provide long-term job security.
Insight
The company you work for matters—but your skills matter more.
- The same skill can earn $80k at one company and $150k at another
- High-income skills (tech, cybersecurity) unlock the highest-paying companies
- Trade skills offer faster entry and stable income
- Combining skills (e.g., tech + management) leads to top-tier salaries
In the U.S., skilled workers are not just in demand—they are highly rewarded. The right company, combined with the right skills, can dramatically change your earning potential and career trajectory.
Opportunities, Salaries, and Career Paths
The United States continues to be one of the most attractive destinations for skilled workers across the world. With a strong economy, diverse industries, and high earning potential, it offers countless opportunities for individuals with specialized skills. From healthcare professionals to engineers, tradespeople to tech experts, skilled workers are in high demand—and that demand translates into competitive salaries, career growth, and long-term stability.
This guide explores the landscape of skilled jobs in the U.S., focusing heavily on salary ranges, differences across industries, and what each career path looks like in practical terms.
What Defines a Skilled Worker?
A skilled worker is someone who possesses specialized knowledge, training, or experience in a particular field. This may come from formal education, certifications, apprenticeships, or years of hands-on work.
Skilled jobs generally fall into three categories:
- Professional (degree-based careers)
- Technical (certification or diploma-based roles)
- Trade (hands-on skilled labor)
Each category offers different income levels, entry barriers, and growth potential.
High-Demand Skilled Jobs in the USA
Below is a detailed comparison of some of the most in-demand skilled jobs in the U.S., focusing on salary differences, entry requirements, and growth potential.
Salary Comparison Table (Top Skilled Jobs)
| Job Title | Entry Salary (USD) | Mid-Level Salary (USD) | Senior Salary (USD) | Education Required | Job Growth |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developer | $70,000 | $110,000 | $160,000+ | Bachelor’s Degree | Very High |
| Registered Nurse | $60,000 | $85,000 | $120,000 | Nursing Degree | High |
| Electrician | $45,000 | $70,000 | $100,000 | Apprenticeship/License | High |
| Mechanical Engineer | $65,000 | $95,000 | $135,000 | Bachelor’s Degree | Moderate |
| Truck Driver | $50,000 | $75,000 | $100,000+ | CDL License | High |
| Plumber | $48,000 | $75,000 | $110,000 | Trade Certification | High |
| Data Analyst | $65,000 | $95,000 | $130,000 | Degree/Certification | Very High |
| Construction Manager | $70,000 | $100,000 | $150,000 | Degree/Experience | High |
| HVAC Technician | $45,000 | $70,000 | $95,000 | Trade Certification | High |
| Cybersecurity Specialist | $80,000 | $115,000 | $170,000+ | Degree/Certifications | Extremely High |
Understanding Salary Differences
Salary differences in the U.S. are influenced by several key factors:
1. Industry Demand
Jobs in technology and healthcare typically pay more due to critical demand. For example, cybersecurity specialists command significantly higher salaries because companies prioritize protecting their data.
2. Skill Scarcity
The rarer the skill, the higher the pay. Specialized fields like AI development or advanced engineering offer top-tier salaries.
3. Experience Level
Entry-level workers earn significantly less than senior professionals. However, the growth curve can be steep in high-demand industries.
4. Location
Salaries vary by state and city. Urban areas often pay more but come with higher living costs.
5. Certification vs Degree
Trade jobs may not require a degree but can still offer competitive earnings through certifications and experience.
Career Path Breakdown
1. Technology Careers
Technology is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the U.S., offering some of the highest-paying skilled jobs.
Career Progression
| Level | Role Example | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | Junior Developer | $70k–$90k |
| Mid-Level | Software Engineer | $100k–$130k |
| Senior | Lead Engineer/Architect | $140k–$180k+ |
Why Tech Pays More
- Constant innovation
- Global demand
- High revenue generation for companies
Key Insight
Tech salaries grow faster than most other industries, often doubling within 5–8 years.
2. Healthcare Careers
Healthcare remains a stable and high-paying sector, especially for skilled professionals.
Salary Growth Table
| Role Level | Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Entry Nurse | $60k–$75k |
| Experienced RN | $80k–$100k |
| Specialized RN | $100k–$120k+ |
Why Healthcare is Lucrative
- Aging population
- Continuous demand
- Critical service sector
Key Insight
While starting salaries may be moderate, specialization significantly increases earnings.
3. Skilled Trades
Trades are often overlooked but can be extremely profitable.
Trade Salary Comparison
| Trade Job | Entry Pay | Mid-Level | Top Earners |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrician | $45k | $70k | $100k+ |
| Plumber | $48k | $75k | $110k |
| HVAC Tech | $45k | $70k | $95k |
Why Trades Are Growing
- Shortage of workers
- Essential services
- Low automation risk
Key Insight
Trades offer strong income potential without requiring expensive degrees.
4. Transportation & Logistics
This sector is vital to the U.S. economy and offers competitive salaries.
Salary Breakdown
| Role Level | Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Entry Driver | $50k–$65k |
| Experienced | $70k–$90k |
| Owner-Operator | $100k+ |
Key Insight
Long-haul drivers and independent operators can earn significantly more than salaried drivers.
5. Engineering Careers
Engineering offers a balance of stability and high earning potential.
Salary Growth
| Level | Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Entry | $65k–$80k |
| Mid-Level | $90k–$110k |
| Senior | $120k–$135k+ |
Key Insight
Engineering salaries grow steadily rather than rapidly, offering long-term stability.
Salary Comparison by Industry
Average Salary Overview
| Industry | Average Salary | Top Potential |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | $110,000 | $180,000+ |
| Healthcare | $85,000 | $130,000 |
| Trades | $70,000 | $110,000 |
| Engineering | $95,000 | $140,000 |
| Logistics | $75,000 | $100,000+ |
Entry Barriers vs Salary Potential
| Career Type | Entry Difficulty | Cost of Training | Salary Potential |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technology | High | High | Very High |
| Healthcare | High | High | High |
| Trades | Low | Low | High |
| Logistics | Low | Low | Moderate |
| Engineering | High | High | High |
Career Growth Timeline Comparison
| Career Type | Years to Mid-Level | Years to High Income |
|---|---|---|
| Tech | 2–4 years | 5–7 years |
| Healthcare | 3–5 years | 6–8 years |
| Trades | 2–3 years | 4–6 years |
| Logistics | 1–2 years | 3–5 years |
| Engineering | 4–6 years | 8–10 years |
Which Skilled Jobs Pay the Most?
Top Highest Paying Skilled Jobs
| Job Title | Average Salary | Top Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Cybersecurity Specialist | $115,000 | $170,000+ |
| Software Developer | $110,000 | $160,000+ |
| Construction Manager | $100,000 | $150,000 |
| Data Analyst | $95,000 | $130,000 |
| Mechanical Engineer | $95,000 | $135,000 |
Real Salary Differences Explained
Let’s break down what these differences actually mean in real life:
- A software developer may start at $70k but quickly scale to $150k+, doubling income within a decade.
- A plumber might start lower but can reach six figures without student debt.
- A registered nurse grows steadily, especially with specialization.
- A truck driver can reach high earnings faster than most careers, especially with overtime or ownership.
Choosing the Right Skilled Career
When selecting a skilled job, consider:
1. Income vs Time Investment
Some careers require years of education, while others allow faster entry.
2. Job Stability
Healthcare and trades offer long-term stability.
3. Work-Life Balance
Tech jobs may offer flexibility, while logistics roles can be demanding.
4. Growth Potential
Technology and cybersecurity lead in long-term salary growth.
How to Get Skilled Jobs in the USA
Process, Challenges, and Benefits (Complete Guide)
Getting a skilled job in the United States is not just about qualifications—it’s about strategy, positioning, and understanding how the system works. Whether you’re targeting tech, healthcare, trades, or logistics, the pathway follows a clear structure.
This guide breaks everything down into how to get the job, the real challenges you’ll face, and the benefits you gain—with clear comparisons and practical insight.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Skilled Jobs in the USA
1. Choose the Right Skill Path
Before anything else, you must decide which category of skilled work fits you best.
| Career Path | Entry Speed | Salary Potential | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technology | Medium | Very High | Fast growth, high income |
| Healthcare | Slow | High | Stability, long-term careers |
| Trades | Fast | High | Quick entry, hands-on work |
| Logistics | Very Fast | Moderate | Immediate earning |
Key Insight:
If your goal is quick income, choose trades or logistics.
If your goal is maximum long-term earnings, choose tech.
2. Get the Required Skills or Certification
Every job requires proof of skill. This is where many people fail—they skip proper certification.
Skill Requirements Comparison
| Career Type | What You Need | Time Required |
|---|---|---|
| Tech | Coding, Cloud, Data Skills | 6 months–4 years |
| Healthcare | Degree + License | 2–4 years |
| Trades | Apprenticeship | 6 months–3 years |
| Logistics | CDL License | 3–6 months |
You don’t always need a degree. Many high-paying jobs rely on skills, not certificates alone.
3. Build a Strong Profile (Very Important)
Employers in the U.S. focus heavily on proof of ability.
What You Must Have
- A professional CV (U.S. format)
- Demonstrated skills (projects, experience)
- Certifications (where required)
- Work experience (even small jobs count)
4. Apply Strategically (Not Randomly)
Most people fail because they apply randomly.
Smart Application Strategy
| Method | Effectiveness |
|---|---|
| Direct company applications | High |
| Referrals (very powerful) | Very High |
| Job platforms | Moderate |
| Recruiters | High |
Best approach: Combine all methods.
5. Prepare for Interviews
In the U.S., interviews are often skill-based and behavioral.
Common Evaluation Areas
- Problem-solving ability
- Communication skills
- Real-world experience
- Adaptability
6. Work Authorization (Critical Step)
If you are not a U.S. citizen, you need:
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Work Visa | Sponsored by employer |
| Student Pathway | Study → Work |
| Skilled Migration | Specialized routes |
Without proper authorization, getting hired becomes very difficult.
Major Challenges (Realistic Breakdown)
1. High Competition
| Industry | Competition Level |
|---|---|
| Tech | Very High |
| Healthcare | Moderate |
| Trades | Low–Moderate |
| Logistics | Low |
Tech pays the most—but is also the most competitive.
2. Experience Barrier
Many employers want experience—even for entry roles.
The Problem:
- “Entry-level” jobs still require experience
The Solution:
- Internships
- Freelance work
- Personal projects
3. Certification & Licensing Issues
Some jobs require U.S.-specific certifications.
| Career | Challenge |
|---|---|
| Nurse | Must pass licensing exams |
| Electrician | Requires local licensing |
| Truck Driver | CDL required |
4. Visa Sponsorship Difficulty
Not all companies sponsor foreign workers.
This limits your options significantly.
5. Cost of Entry
| Career | Cost Level |
|---|---|
| Tech Bootcamp | Medium |
| University Degree | High |
| Trades Training | Low |
| CDL Training | Low |
Benefits of Skilled Jobs in the USA
1. High Salary Potential
| Career Type | Top Salary |
|---|---|
| Tech | $160k–$220k+ |
| Healthcare | $120k–$140k |
| Trades | $100k+ |
| Logistics | $100k+ |
The U.S. offers some of the highest wages globally.
2. Career Growth Opportunities
- Fast promotions
- Skill-based advancement
- Opportunity to switch industries
3. Job Stability (Certain Fields)
| Stable Careers |
|---|
| Healthcare |
| Trades |
| Logistics |
These roles are always needed.
4. Flexible Career Paths
- You can switch roles (e.g., developer → manager)
- Skills are transferable across companies
5. Opportunity for Entrepreneurship
Many skilled workers eventually:
- Start businesses
- Become contractors
- Work independently
Salary vs Challenge Comparison
| Career Type | Difficulty to Enter | Salary Potential | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tech | High | Very High | Medium |
| Healthcare | High | High | Low |
| Trades | Low | High | Low |
| Logistics | Very Low | Moderate | Medium |
Real-Life Career Strategy (Best Approach)
If You Want Fast Money
- Choose: Truck Driving, HVAC, Electrical
- Time to income: 3–6 months
If You Want Long-Term Wealth
- Choose: Software Development, Cybersecurity
- Time to high income: 3–5 years
If You Want Stability
- Choose: Nursing, Trades
Biggest Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying without skills
- Ignoring certifications
- Not tailoring your CV
- Waiting for “perfect timing”
- Avoiding entry-level roles
Final Insight
Getting a skilled job in the U.S. is very achievable—but not easy.
You must:
- Build the right skills
- Follow a structured approach
- Understand the system
- Stay consistent
The Reality:
- The path is competitive
- The process can be slow
- But the reward is extremely high
Those who succeed are not always the smartest—they are the ones who are prepared, strategic, and persistent.
Final Thoughts
The United States offers a wide range of opportunities for skilled workers, each with unique benefits and salary structures. Whether you pursue a high-paying tech role, a stable healthcare career, or a hands-on trade, the potential for financial growth is significant.
The most important factor is choosing a path that aligns with your skills, goals, and lifestyle. While salary is crucial, long-term satisfaction and growth opportunities should guide your decision.
Skilled workers remain the backbone of the U.S. economy—and those with the right expertise can build highly rewarding and financially secure careers.
Bahati kassim mwarumbo
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