Neurologists
Neurologists diagnose and treat disorders affecting the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. They work primarily in hospitals, clinics, and private practices, conducting patient evaluations, ordering diagnostic tests like MRIs and EEGs, prescribing medications, and managing conditions such as Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, and stroke. Surgery is typically not part of their scope.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against neurologists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A neurologist's week involves patient consultations where they review medical histories, perform neurological exams, and interpret test results. They may spend time in clinic seeing established and new patients, reviewing imaging studies, and adjusting treatment plans. Hospital rounds include checking on admitted patients with acute conditions. Administrative time covers documentation, communicating with other physicians, and staying current with clinical research and evolving treatment guidelines.
Who this work suits
Holland code ISR. Investigative work is figuring things out: analysis, research, problem-solving. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You're drawn to this work if you enjoy investigating complex medical problems and understanding how the nervous system functions. You work well with patients facing serious or chronic illnesses and communicate clearly with colleagues across specialties. Strong analytical skills and the ability to interpret diagnostic data are essential for success.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold doct.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Openings right now
- Physician - Neurologist · Veterans Health Administration · Washington, District of Columbia · $290000–$315000
- Physician (Neurologist) - EDRP · Veterans Health Administration · Austin, Texas · $260000–$320000
- Physician - General Neurologist · Veterans Health Administration · Fredericksburg, Virginia · $260000–$315000
- Physician - Neurologist · Veterans Health Administration · Huntington, West Virginia · $250000–$335000
- Physician- Neurologist · Veterans Health Administration · Fargo, North Dakota · $300000–$375000
- Physician- Neurologist · Veterans Health Administration · Houston, Texas · $270000–$300000
- Physician - Neurologist · Veterans Health Administration · Anywhere in the U.S. (remote job) · Remote · $260000–$315000
- Physician (Neurologist) EDRP Approved, Recruitment/Relocation may be offered · Veterans Health Administration · Corpus Christi, Texas · $260000–$315000
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vermont | $247,740 | $434,730 | $434,730 | 40 |
| Arizona | $226,080 | $409,610 | $409,610 | 80 |
| Minnesota | $258,760 | $381,670 | $410,200 | 310 |
| Texas | $238,320 | $360,640 | $419,900 | 660 |
| California | $302,620 | $357,080 | $357,080 | 1,090 |
| Colorado | $186,700 | $356,250 | $405,670 | 120 |
| Alaska | $161,160 | $354,760 | $519,990 | 100 |
| South Carolina | $352,680 | $352,680 | $369,730 | 40 |
| Wisconsin | $167,020 | $342,520 | $407,490 | 130 |
| Kentucky | $194,090 | $338,850 | $452,750 | 230 |
| District of Columbia | $200,330 | $332,000 | $332,000 | 50 |
| Washington | $187,840 | $327,140 | $360,610 | 180 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Multiple Sclerosis Certified Specialist (MSCS) — The Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers
- Clinical Neurology — American Academy of Neurological & Orthopaedic Surgeons
- Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ) — National Association for Healthcare Quality
- Neurocritical Care Certification — United Council for Neurologic Subspecialties
- Headache Medicine Certification (HM) — United Council for Neurologic Subspecialties
- Neuro-Oncology Certification (NO) — United Council for Neurologic Subspecialties
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against neurologists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 29-1217.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.