A college education is often considered a milestone in achieving financial success. However, the cost of higher education in the United States can be staggering, with average costs ranging from $36,000 to $56,000 per year for private colleges and universities. Coupled with the total lost income and accumulating interest from student loans, earning a bachelor’s degree can significantly reduce lifetime earning power.
Despite this, numerous jobs don’t require a college degree and can offer a high earning potential with just a high school education.
This article will explore several high-paying jobs that don’t require a college degree, providing insight into alternative career paths that can lead to financial success.
Dental Hygienist
Becoming a dental hygienist requires completing a program and passing a National Board Dental Hygiene Examination or a state clinical board exam. The process varies by state but typically takes two years to complete. In Florida, for example, an $80 fee and two years of board-approved self-study can start one on the path to becoming a dental hygienist.
Several accreditation programs offer a backdoor into the industry and real-world training in a dentist’s office. This training can be more extensive than that provided in a college or university program, and it can help prepare candidates for the two-part exam required to gain access to this decent-paying career.
According to DentalPost, dental hygienists in the United States can earn an average annual salary ranging from $51,130 to $115,510, depending on the state. This is a lucrative career path that can provide a comfortable living for those who pursue it.
Escalator and Elevator Maintenance & Installer
The role of an escalator and elevator maintenance & installer is essential to the safety and well-being of individuals who use these modes of transportation. With a projected growth rate of 5.60% per year until 2028, this industry is expected to be valued at $145.6 billion, providing potential candidates with job security.
To enter this field, candidates must have a GED and complete an apprenticeship leading to a Certified Elevator Technician (CET) credential. The National Association of Elevator Contractors requires a minimum of three years or 6,000 logged hours of on-the-job training to qualify for the Certified Accessibility and Private Residence Lift Technician (CAT) exam. However, this is paid work that leads to a higher-paying goal of a CET certification.
The road to a CET certification requires five years or 10,000 logged hours of work and passing a final exam. Approval for the certification typically takes around three weeks. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for an escalator and elevator installer and repairer is approximately $99,000 per year.
UPS Driver
The United Parcel Service (UPS) recently signed a five-year contract with its drivers, resulting in a significant pay increase for both part-time and full-time drivers. As per the new contract, full-time UPS drivers can now expect to earn approximately $170,000 per year in salary and benefits. Although the exact breakdown of salary and benefits is unclear, full-time drivers can expect to earn $49 per hour by the end of the five-year contract.
It is important to note that the $170,000 salary is not a starting rate. Depending on the state, starting hourly pay for UPS drivers ranges from $21 to $24 per hour, with $23 per hour being the pre-tax equivalent of $47,840 per year. However, drivers receive annual raises ranging from $0.25 to $1.00 per hour, and other benefits such as paid sick days, paid vacation, and health insurance are also taken into account.
Project Manager
A project manager is responsible for overseeing a project from start to finish. They are highly paid for their skills and expertise in managing projects. While a degree is not always necessary for becoming a project manager, certification, work experience, and mentorship can be helpful. According to Teamwork.com, an assistant project manager can earn an average of $74,656 per year. Even without a degree, project managers can still earn a high salary by working in a secondary role under the lead project manager.
Coursera notes that project managers with degrees can earn $25,000 more than those without. However, gaining certification in project management software can also increase a project manager’s profile and make them more attractive to HR departments and headhunters. The initial certification course can take up to a year, but project managers can continue to build their skills through experience and further certificates.
Aircraft Mechanic
Becoming an aircraft mechanic is a high-paying career path that does not require formal certification. Instead, working alongside and learning from a certified mechanic is a common way to enter the industry. The top pay for mechanics can reach up to $145,000 per year or $70 per hour, and even half of that working for an FAA-certified mechanic is a substantial salary.
According to Flying Magazine, it takes at least 30 months or two and a half years of apprenticeship and on-the-job training to become proficient enough to be eligible for FAA certification. While the average cost of aircraft mechanic school ranges from $20,000 to $50,000, opting for an apprenticeship can save loads of cash while still providing valuable experience.
Funeral Home Workers
Funeral home workers have job security due to the inevitability of death. They are not easily affected by pandemics or recessions. While some states require an associate degree in Funeral Service Education before becoming eligible for licensing, others only require a high school education or GED to take the licensing exam and become a licensed cremationist. The American Board of Funeral Service Education notes a significant national demand for funeral directors, but the job requires on-call availability, including working evenings and weekends if necessary.
Funeral home workers have various roles, and not all require a college degree. However, the licensing standards for each state may vary. Funeral directors are responsible for managing funeral arrangements, while embalmers prepare the deceased for burial or cremation. Other workers may include funeral attendants, who assist with the funeral service and support the family, and administrative staff, who manage the funeral home’s paperwork and finances.
Casino/Gambling Manager
A casino and gambling manager oversees the day-to-day operations of a casino. This includes managing staff, ensuring customer satisfaction, and ensuring the casino’s profitability. While a college degree is not required for this position, on-the-job training and online certification courses can help individuals advance in this industry.
According to national salary averages, casino and gambling managers can expect to earn an average of $82,176 per year, with some managers earning up to $421,389. This makes it one of the potentially highest-paying jobs available without a college degree.
However, it is important to note that without a degree, individuals will likely need to start in an entry-level position and work their way up to management. The gaming industry is expected to expand by 24% over the next eight years, with most casinos offering in-house training for new employees. After passing a criminal background check and drug test, individuals can obtain a gaming license and begin their climb to management.
Full-stack web developer
Full-stack web developers are highly skilled professionals specializing in front-end and back-end software applications. They are essential to companies that have constant web-related and data programming needs. According to Indeed, full-stack web development was ranked as the best job of 2023 out of a list of 25 other contenders. This is due to the high demand for full-stack developers, with a median salary of $129,637 and over half of the jobs being remote-based.
Bootcamps are one way to gain the skills necessary to become a full-stack web developer, with programs lasting between three to six months. Several self-guided courses are also available online, some of which are free. Online coursework provided by companies like Coursera, Udemy, or FreeCodeCamp offers certification related to specific skills important to the job. IBM offers a 12-week Full Stack Software Developer certificate course through Coursera, which is a great starting point for anyone interested in pursuing a career in this field.
Full-stack web developers must be proficient in both front-end and back-end development. This includes knowledge of programming languages such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Python, and Ruby on Rails. They must also be familiar with databases, APIs, and server-side languages. With the increasing demand for web development, full-stack web developers are highly sought after and provide an essential service to companies of all sizes.
Sales Director
Sales directors oversee a company’s sales team and develop strategies to achieve sales targets. They work to build relationships with customers through marketing and direct sales, and they must be skilled in managing a team and motivating them to success.
According to Salary.com, sales directors can earn an average annual salary of $196,813, with even those holding only a high school diploma earning an average of $96,970. However, becoming a sales director typically requires at least 10 years of experience in lower-level sales roles, as well as a strong work ethic and tenacity.
The path to sales directorship is not an easy one, but it can be a rewarding career for those who are natural salespeople with strong interpersonal skills. Sales directors must be able to analyze data and market trends to develop effective sales strategies, and they must also be able to communicate those strategies to their team and motivate them to achieve success.
Supply Chain Manager
A supply chain manager is responsible for overseeing the entire process of product delivery, from processing to storage and shipping. According to Supply Chain Management Review, the average salary for this career is $98,570, which is $30,000 more than the American average. Furthermore, the salary for this career is on the rise, with a 3% increase from last year.
The Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM) reported that supply chain professionals generally have high job satisfaction. Professionals who hold an APICS certificate have higher earning potential. However, a hands-on approach to learning is necessary for those without a degree. Finding a company that offers paid internships can help individuals learn all the basic skills needed in real-time. Additionally, online courses can be taken to bolster skills such as leadership and performance, making individuals better candidates for management positions.
Makeup Artist
Makeup artists can earn a decent salary, with the potential to increase their earnings over time. According to data, makeup artists can start their careers making around $34,564 per year, but with several years of experience, they can push that up to $97,500. Nevada boasts the highest average salary for makeup artists in the country at $112,125.
The best-paying gigs for makeup artists are weddings, where they can earn $50 to $100 hourly, airbrushing for $50 to $250 a day, and film and television, specifically special effects makeup, which can raise a makeup artist’s earning potential to upwards of $500 or more per day.
Even Hollywood actors like Christian Bale recognize the earning potential of makeup artists. In a GQ Magazine interview, Bale spoke about his makeup trailer experience in between takes of “American Psycho” and is quoted as saying, “I remember one time sitting in the makeup trailer and the make-up artists were laughing at me because I was getting paid less than any of them.” This highlights the fact that makeup artists can make a serious income in their field.
Real Estate Agent
A real estate agent is a licensed professional who helps clients buy, sell, and rent properties. They act as a mediator between buyers and sellers, guiding them through the complex process of real estate transactions. The average salary for a real estate agent as of July 2022 was $104,451. However, this figure can vary based on factors such as experience, property types, and geographic location.
To become a licensed real estate agent, one must complete a pre-licensing course and pass an exam. The course and exam cost can range from $350 to $600, depending on the state. The course duration can vary from 40 to 168 hours, depending on the state’s guidelines. This is significantly less time and investment than a college degree.
After gaining experience and building a client base, real estate agents can apply for a broker’s license and establish their own brokerage. The average amount of experience needed before being eligible for a broker’s license in the United States is one to three years, depending on the state.
Commercial Pilot
Becoming a licensed commercial pilot requires extensive flight training, which can take up to 1,500 hours or seven months, depending on the airline. While some airlines do not require their pilots to have degrees, the cost of training can be steep, with a price tag of $101,995 for those with no prior flying experience. However, financing options are available to help cover the cost.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for commercial airline pilots is $103,910. This salary is accompanied by the opportunity to travel around the world, experience new cultures, try new foods, meet new people, and witness stunning views on a regular basis. The benefits of the job are not limited to the salary, making it a highly sought-after career choice.
Executive Assistant
Executive assistants play a vital role in supporting high-powered executives in managing their busy schedules. The average salary for executive assistants in the US ranges from $68,038 to $84,749, which is significantly higher than the average salary of a high-school-degreed worker at $39,400.
While a degree is not mandatory for this role, obtaining certifications can help in advancing one’s career. The Certified Manager (CM) certification can be earned without any secondary educational requirements and can be completed in six months. Additionally, a Microsoft Office Specialist certification can enhance job-related skills and keep the executive assistant up to date on the latest Microsoft applications.
Plumber
Plumbers are skilled tradespeople who install, repair, and maintain plumbing systems in residential and commercial buildings. They work with pipes, fixtures, and appliances that carry water, gas, and waste.
On average, plumbers earn around $25 per hour, with the potential to earn up to $31 per hour depending on their experience and location. Apprenticeships are a common way to enter the plumbing trade, allowing individuals to learn on the job while earning money.
After completing an apprenticeship, plumbers can become journeyman plumbers, which allows for more independence and higher pay. The next step is to become a licensed master plumber, which opens the door to managing a team and working on larger projects. Certification and training for journeyman and master plumber levels typically cost between $800 to $3,000, depending on the state.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average pay for plumbers in 2022 was approximately $60,000 per year. The demand for plumbers is expected to grow by 4% from 2022 to 2032, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations.
Power Plant Operator
Power plant operators are responsible for ensuring that all equipment at a plant is running optimally and that all safety guidelines are being followed. They are required to have certification courses offered by vocational schools or hands-on training, which offer a way in without obtaining a college or university degree in an industry where 3,500 new roles are being created annually.
In the US, power plant operators earn an average of $89,090 annually, with the lowest 10% earning $52,000 and the top percentile earning $119,880. According to ZipRecruiter, eight out of 10 cities offering the highest salaries for entry-level workers in the power plant industry are located in California, where salaries range from $42,647 to $51,999. Seattle, Washington, and Lebanon, New Hampshire are the other highest-paying cities for entry-level labor in this field, offering $42,695 and $42,949 per year, respectively.
Subway and Streetcar Operator or Conductor
Becoming a subway and streetcar operator or conductor is an excellent way to increase earning potential. A decade ago, a New York City train conductor started her career by completing an application and undergoing seven to nine weeks of job training before earning her current salary of $86,000. Applicants may be required to undergo criminal background checks, drug testing, and a medical examination as part of the certification process.
While a degree is not necessary for this role, certain skills such as the ability to stay on schedule, think and move quickly, and communicate professionally with the general public can set applicants apart from their co-workers. As advocates of lifelong learning, individuals can prepare themselves for future management opportunities and higher salaries by learning additional languages, staying up-to-date with safety procedures, and enhancing their work experience with leadership or mechanical training.
Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Manager
Transportation, storage, and distribution managers oversee the movement of goods from the warehouse to the final destination. They ensure that products are shipped on time, at the right cost, and in the most efficient manner possible. These managers are responsible for coordinating the activities of a team of workers, including transportation coordinators, storage managers, and distribution managers.
Storage managers are in charge of managing the warehouse and ensuring that products are stored in a safe and efficient manner. They are responsible for maintaining inventory records, conducting audits, and ensuring that products are properly labeled and stored. Transportation managers are responsible for routing and tracking vehicles, ensuring that products are delivered on time and in good condition. Distribution managers ensure that all logistics between storage and transport are well-coordinated and that products are delivered to the right destination.
According to Salary.com, the average lowest-paid Transportation, storage, and distribution managers earn about $78,279 per year, while the national average is $103,650 per year. The industry is valued at $78.5 billion and is expected to grow by 6% annually until 2031. Job availability in this industry increased by 8.2% last year. Several colleges offer certification courses that can lead to a well-paying job without incurring the full cost of a four-year degree.
Boilermaker
Boilermakers are skilled workers who specialize in installing, maintaining, and repairing boiler systems for commercial and residential buildings. They play a critical role in ensuring that these systems operate efficiently and safely, especially during colder seasons.
Despite not requiring a degree, boilermakers typically undergo four to five years of on-the-job, paid training and apprenticeship to gain the necessary skills and knowledge. This industry offers various avenues to explore, including oil and gas and construction, with opportunities for growth and higher earnings as experience is gained.
The International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, a union representing over 50,000 laborers and tradespeople, offers a respected four-year apprenticeship program in both the United States and Canada. The program covers essential skills such as cutting, knot tying, hand signals, equipment use, blueprint reading, welding, tube rolling, fabrication, and layout.
As of May 2022, the average salary for boilermakers is $66,920, with the top 10% earning $95,700. With the demand for skilled boilermakers expected to increase, mastering these skills can make one indispensable in the industry.
Media and Communications Equipment Worker
Media and communications equipment workers are responsible for maintaining and repairing all the media and communications industry equipment. With the increasing demand for media content and technology, the job opportunities in this field are growing rapidly. In the United States, there are approximately 114,300 new jobs being created every year in this industry.
The average salary for media and communications equipment workers is $52,840 per year, although this can vary depending on experience and location. The District of Columbia currently offers the highest salary average at $108,590, making it an attractive location for those seeking higher pay.
The motion picture and video industry and the federal government’s executive branch are the two main industries that employ media and communications equipment workers. While some jobs in this field require a degree, many do not. Photography, broadcast, sound and video technicians, as well as podcast or radio announcers, hosts, and DJs are all avenues within the scope of media and communications work that do not require more than a high school or GED level education.
Overall, media and communications equipment workers are essential to keeping the industry running smoothly. With the increasing demand for media content and technology, this field offers a promising career path for those interested in working with media equipment and technology.
Police Officer
Policing is a career path that does not require a degree but can offer a solid salary, benefits, and pension. The national average salary for police officers is $67,600, but this varies between states. For example, cops in Nevada earn an average of $73,660, while cops in California earn $105,220. However, the southern U.S. has the 10 lowest-paying states for police officers, offering salaries up to $31,000 less than the national average.
Once hired, police officers have the opportunity to advance in rank and pay. This does not necessarily mean leaving fieldwork for a desk job. According to Glassdoor, detectives in the U.S. earn an average salary of $77,341 per year with an additional annual bonus of $6,010. The highest-paid detectives work for the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) at $102,352 and the City of New York at just over $90,000. The top brass in New York City are some of the best-compensated civil servants in the city, with salaries ranging from $245,000 to $321,719 over the past decade.
Building Inspector
A building inspector is responsible for examining buildings to ensure they comply with local and national building codes and regulations. They inspect new construction projects, renovations, and existing structures to ensure they meet safety standards. Building inspectors also investigate complaints from residents about building violations and issue citations or work orders to correct any issues.
To become a building inspector, one must complete prerequisite training that typically ranges from 60 to 200 hours. This training can be completed online, in class, or a hybrid of both. The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors provides courses for those interested in becoming a building inspector. Certification courses are also offered by state guidelines, which usually cost between $500 to $800, followed by a four-hour state exam costing $225, and an annual licensing fee.
All building inspectors must pass the National Home Inspection Exam (NHIE), a 200-question examination that usually takes two hours to complete. Mock home inspections may also be part of the training process. A background check is required for this job since building inspectors spend a significant amount of time in strangers’ homes.
According to talent.com, the national average salary for a building inspector is $64,136, with an entry-level wage of $51,125. However, salaries may vary depending on the state, level of experience, and education.
Commercial Diver
Commercial diving is a physically demanding profession that requires individuals to be in top physical condition. The job involves working in offshore oil and nuclear energy industries, as well as infrastructure projects related to building and maintenance. To become a commercial diver, one must have completed high school education, be able to swim, and pass a physical exam. Certification through the American National Standard Institute (ANSI) and the Association of Commercial Diver Educators (A.C.D.E) is also required.
The average salary for a commercial diver is $60,360 per year, but as one progresses through the industry, they can earn up to $100,000 more. However, the job may not be suitable for individuals over the age of 45 or those who are not in peak physical condition, as deep-sea diving can be especially hard on the body.
Electrical Lineman
Becoming an electrical lineman offers a starting rate of around $52,350 for inexperienced workers, with salaries increasing as skills and roles advance. The average median salary for a lineman in 2023 was $79,843. Although a college degree is not required, attending a lineman school is necessary. Pre-apprenticeship courses typically last 12 to 37 weeks, followed by four years of apprenticeship. The average cost of lineman school is about $8,400, significantly less than traditional college tuition fees. Financial assistance is available to help cover the cost of tuition.
To enter the industry, a high school diploma, a driver’s license, and the ability to pass a drug test are necessary. An apprenticeship is the best way to start a career as an electrical lineman. Apprenticeships provide on-the-job training and classroom instruction, with salaries increasing as the apprentice gains experience and skills.
Signal and Track Switch Repairers
Signal and track switch repairers are responsible for maintaining railway systems to ensure that they meet safety guidelines and function optimally. Their duties include upgrading and maintaining train tracks and highway crossings, as well as clearing obstructions along a train route. Although many signal and track repair workers have degrees, at least 12.8% of the industry is working with just a GED or high school education.
According to Recruiter.com, signal and switch repairers earn an average salary of $75,970 per year, with salaries ranging from $47,130 to $96,990. While this profession involves extended periods of time working outdoors or in tunnels, the best salaries in this category tend to go to public administrators. The average salary for the administrative role is $79,380, which is even higher than the median wage by $3,410.
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
Diagnostic medical sonographers are highly skilled professionals who specialize in using soundwave imaging technology to perform non-invasive medical scans. They work under the guidance of a certified registered diagnostic medical sonographer (R.D.M.S) while learning on the job to gain full certification. The salary range for diagnostic medical sonographers typically falls between $62,500 and $95,360, but the top percentile salary can be even higher based on experience and location. In California, for example, the highest salary for this job ranges between $125,210 and $138,110.
This job offers a wide range of opportunities for placement, including abdominal ultrasound, breast sonography for breast cancer screening, neuro sonography for brain and nerve scans, obstetrical and gynecological sonography for expectant mothers, echocardiography for heart-related matters, musculoskeletal for muscle, bone, and joint examinations, and vascular ultrasound training which focuses on scanning veins and arteries.
Each discipline has its own standards for exam eligibility, so it is important to check with the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health/Education Programs (CAAHEP), the accreditation body governing sonography in the U.S., about the individual prerequisites for accreditation that apply to you.
Chemical Plant and System Operators
Chemical plant and system operators are responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of chemical plants. They monitor equipment, troubleshoot problems, and make adjustments to maintain optimal performance. In the event of an emergency, they are responsible for shutting down the plant to prevent damage to property and personnel.
A high school diploma or GED is the only educational requirement for becoming a chemical plant and system operator. However, passing the Power Plant Maintenance and Plant Operator exam is necessary. This exam tests basic math and reading comprehension, as well as general mechanics skills. Upon passing the exam, new operators receive on-the-job training and work alongside experienced operators.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for chemical plant and system operators is $82,670, which is significantly higher than the average salary for high school graduates. This career path offers a stable and rewarding opportunity for those interested in the chemical industry.
Petroleum Pump System Operators
Petroleum pump system operators are responsible for managing the flow and process of petroleum products in oil refineries. They ensure that the equipment operates efficiently and safely. To become a petroleum pump system operator, one needs to have at least a high school education, and it is highly recommended to have some on-the-job experience.
According to the industry, all petroleum pump system operators have at least a high school education, and the average annual salary is $82,342, which is equivalent to $40 per hour. Entry-level opportunities are available through general laborer positions at oil and gas companies, refineries, pipelines, or drill sites. Certification programs, such as those offered by The International Association of Drilling Contractors (IADC) and the Well Control Accreditation Program (WellCAP), can also be beneficial for career advancement.
Oil and gas job fairs are held regularly across the country and can provide opportunities for individuals to enter the industry. Pursuing a career as a petroleum pump system operator can be a lucrative and rewarding career path for those interested in the oil and gas industry.
Postmaster
The postmaster is a crucial role in the U.S. Postal Service. As a regional branch manager, the postmaster is responsible for ensuring that mail and packages are delivered efficiently and on time. The job requires a U.S. citizenship, a high school diploma, and a clean driving record. Additionally, candidates must pass drug and background checks.
According to Payscale, the average median salary for a postmaster is $74,994. To qualify for the position, candidates must pass the 473 Postal Exam, which tests their attention to detail, ability to memorize and retain information, documentation skills, and personality fit for the U.S. Postal Service.
The postmaster is a key figure in maintaining the Postal Service’s reputation for reliable and efficient delivery. With the job’s attractive salary and relatively low barriers to entry, it is an appealing option for those seeking a stable and rewarding career.
Private Investigator
Private investigators are professionals who are typically hired to conduct investigations for individuals, businesses, or attorneys. While many private investigators have law enforcement, security, or military backgrounds, it is not a requirement for this profession. Licensing is based on experience with investigations, and working under a licensed private investigator is another way to gain the experience needed to enter the field.
According to the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services, private investigators must be at least 18 years old, have at least three years of investigative experience (2,000 hours per year), and pass a rigorous criminal background check. Investigative experience can include law enforcement, military service, insurance adjustment work, work with a public defender, and arson investigative work with a fire department.
The average salary for private investigators in 2023 was $50,502, with the top 90% earning up to $70,753 per year, according to Salary.com. Private investigators may work for themselves or for private investigation firms. Some of the services they provide include surveillance, background checks, and locating missing persons.
