Tips For Finding Jobs Without a College Degree

A four-year college degree is a minimum requirement for many jobs, and more education can translate to higher earnings. Itโs possible, however, to find jobs that make good money without college.
When comparing good jobs you can get without college experience, itโs helpful to consider earning potential and the skills you might need.
Definition of a Good Paying Job
There is no standard benchmark for what constitutes a good paying job. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual wage in March 2021 was $58,260. Thatโs across all occupations, regardless of education level.
Whether thatโs a good paying job for you depends partly on your lifestyle. Some people can live comfortably on $58,000 or less, while others might struggle. A single person living in an area with a low cost of living may feel rich. But someone supporting a spouse and children in a high-rent area could easily disagree.
Jobs that donโt require college can pay more or less than $100,000, depending on the industry. Perhaps a better question is what kind of trade-offs are involved in working a good paying job, in terms of time commitment and flexibility.
Good Paying Jobs vs Highest Paying Jobs
The highest paying jobs have a median pay of around $200,000 a year, according to the BLS. People who work in the highest paying jobs may require advanced education, certifications, or specific job skills.
Does that mean good paying jobs arenโt worth considering? Not at all. The highest paying jobs can also be some of the most stressful jobs. Many of the highest paying jobs are in the healthcare field, which can require long hours, dealing with emotional or mental stress, and working in potentially hazardous surroundings.
Good paying jobs can still pay the bills, even if you donโt make a $100,000 salary. And the job itself may be less stressful and allow for more work-life balance, which some people prefer over a bigger paycheck.
Pros and Cons of Jobs That Donโt Require a College Degree
As with all jobs, better paying ones have advantages and disadvantages. Whether it makes sense for you to consider jobs that make good money without college can depend on your financial and career goals.
Here are some of the main pros and cons to weigh when deciding whether to pursue a good paying job and forgo college.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Avoid the potentially high costs associated with a four-year degree | Some employers are reluctant to hire candidates who donโt have a degree |
Start off your career without student loan debt | Certain career fields require a college degree for entry |
Earn a steady income right out of high school | Good paying jobs that donโt require college can be hard to find, and hiring may be competitive |
Why Itโs Hard To Find Jobs Without a Degree
Finding good jobs without a college degree is often difficult because many employers have come to expect that job candidates will have a bachelorโs degree at a minimum. Additionally, many professions require four-year college degrees to be considered for entry-level positions.
There are lots of jobs you can get without a degree, or with an associate degree, but they may not pay as well as jobs that do require higher education. A college degree can make you a more attractive candidate for a position because it demonstrates to employers that youโve taken steps to prepare for a successful career.
Does a four-year college degree or higher guarantee that youโll be successful or make a lot of money? No, and some industries that require a degree pay very little. Thatโs another reason to consider good jobs that pay well without college being a requirement.
Tips for Finding Jobs Without a College Degree
If youโre interested in getting good paying jobs without college, itโs important to do your homework. Specifically, itโs helpful to understand:
- Which industries or career fields generally require a degree and which ones donโt
- What skills, experience, or expertise may be substituted for a college degree when searching for good paying jobs in specific industries
- Whether it may be to your advantage to get an associate degree or a postsecondary non-degree certification
- What is competitive pay for any good paying jobs youโre interested in, based on industry standards and trends
- The difference between salary vs. hourly pay and why it matters
You should also consider the types of jobs youโre interested in. If youโd like to do something hands-on, for instance, then you may be curious about what trade makes the most money and whether youโll need an associate degree to enter that field.
Or if youโre the introverted type, you might be focused on finding the best paying jobs for antisocial people that donโt require a degree.
25 Good Paying Jobs Without a College Degree
Wondering which jobs pay the most without a college degree? We analyzed BLS data to find good paying jobs that donโt need a four-year degree and compiled the following list based on:
- Median annual pay
- Minimum education level required (high school diploma or equivalent, postsecondary non-degree award, or associate degree)
- Expected job growth through 2031
Read on for 25 good paying jobs you can get without college.
1. Makeup Artist, Theatrical and Performance
Median pay: $134,750/year
Job growth outlook: 7%
Job description: Makeup artists apply cosmetic and special-effects makeup to performers in theatrical and other entertainment settings.
Job duties and requirements:
- Create and apply makeup looks to performers
- Complete touch-ups as needed to keep makeup looking fresh throughout the performance
- Postsecondary non-degree award is usually required
How to get started: Makeup artists may attend cosmetology school or earn professional certifications in makeup artistry before applying for jobs. Some artists, however, are self-taught and start their careers by showcasing their makeup skills on TikTok or other social media.
Pros:
- Makeup artists can make excellent money without a college degree
- This is a highly creative job that often involves meeting new people
- Makeup artistry can offer flexible hours and opportunities to travel
Cons:
- Higher pay isnโt guaranteed
- Working environments can sometimes be harsh, and artists may be subject to criticism
- Not ideal for people who arenโt comfortable in a fast-paced work environment
2. Commercial Pilot
Median pay: $134,630/year
Job growth outlook: 6%
Job description: Commercial pilots fly planes and other aircraft, and can work for major airlines, charter companies, or private individuals.
Job duties and requirements:
โขย ย Operating flight equipment to safely transport cargo or passengers
โขย ย Checking the condition of the aircraft prior to takeoff
โขย ย Associate degree and on-the-job training may suffice for pilots who donโt plan to fly for major airlines
How to get started: Flight training and FAA certification are essential for commercial pilots. On-the-job training may be substituted for an associate or a bachelorโs degree.
Pros:
โขย ย Commercial pilots can make a lot of money, even without a degree
โขย ย Pilot jobs offer opportunities to travel to new places
โขย ย Work can be flexible
Cons:
โขย ย Requires extensive flight and on-the-job training
โขย ย Flying for a living is generally a higher-risk occupation
โขย ย Private pilots may have to contend with demanding clients
3. Air Traffic Controller
Median pay: $129,750/year
Job growth outlook: 1%
Job description: Air traffic controllers help to guide aircraft from one destination to another. They can work at major airports or smaller airfields.
Job duties and requirements:
โขย ย Monitor the movement of aircraft in the air and on the ground
โขย ย Communicate with pilots during takeoff, while in-flight, and during the landing
โขย ย Sufficient work experience and on-the-job training
How to get started: If youโre interested in becoming an air traffic controller, youโll need to first meet the minimum requirements. Typically, that means at least three years of work experience, a mix of work experience and education, or training through an FAA-approved program.
Pros:
โขย ย Air traffic control jobs can pay exceptionally well
โขย ย A college degree isnโt always required if you have appropriate work experience or training
โขย ย Job growth is not spectacular but demand is expected to hold steady
Cons:
โขย ย High-pressure job
โขย ย May require working long hours, including weekends and holidays
โขย ย Room for advancement may be limited
4. Nuclear Technician
Median pay: $99,340/year
Job growth outlook: -17%
Job description: Nuclear technicians work in nuclear facilities to assist physicists, engineers, and professionals in maintaining those facilities and conducting nuclear research.
Job duties and requirements:
โขย ย Monitoring nuclear facility equipment
โขย ย Measuring levels of radiation and collecting air, soil, and water samples to test for contamination
โขย ย Associate degree or equivalent military service
How to get started: Anyone interested in working as a nuclear technician may first want to obtain an associate degree in nuclear science or a related field. Job applicants may be able to substitute military experience for an associate degree if they had nuclear training while enlisted.
Pros:
โขย ย Nuclear technicians can be compensated well for their time and skills
โขย ย An advanced science degree is not necessarily a requirement
โขย ย Nuclear tech jobs may offer opportunities to work independently
Cons:
โขย ย Working in a nuclear facility is generally a high-risk job
โขย ย Job outlook is declining, which means there may be fewer nuclear technician jobs to go around in the future
โขย ย Advancement opportunities may be limited without a higher degree
5. First-Line Supervisor of Police and Detectives
Median pay: $99,330/year
Job growth outlook: 3%
Job description: First-line supervisors are responsible for overseeing the conduct of subordinate officers, managing investigations, and ensuring that all law enforcement protocols are properly applied.
Job duties and requirements:
โขย ย Assisting in criminal investigations as needed
โขย ย Managing daily operations of police and detective personnel
โขย ย High school diploma or equivalent
How to get started: Becoming a first-line supervisor begins with completing the necessary training to become a police officer. That usually means attending the police academy. Once hired as a rookie officer, individuals can work their way up the ranks to a supervisory position.
Pros:
โขย ย First-Line supervisors can earn a salary thatโs close to six figures
โขย ย High school education may be enough to get started in a law enforcement career
โขย ย Additional room for advancement
Cons:
โขย ย Entry-level salaries may be relatively low
โขย ย It can take years to work your way up to a supervisor position
โขย ย Police work in general tends to be a dangerous profession
6. Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Manager
Median pay: $98,230/year
Job growth outlook: 8%
Job description: Managers are responsible for planning and coordinating transportation, storage, and distribution services or activities. Logistics manager is one job title that can fall under this occupational heading.
Job duties and requirements:
โขย ย Overseeing and organizing operations related to the transportation, storage, and distribution of movable goods or commodities
โขย ย Ensuring that all activities are completed in accordance with local, state, and federal law
โขย ย High school diploma or equivalent, plus relevant work experience
How to get started: Since this is a managerial role, itโs generally necessary to start off in an entry-level position in the transportation, storage, and distribution industry. On-the-job training and experience, as well as time on the job, can be key in earning advancement with this type of job.
Pros:
โขย ย Suitable for organized and detail-oriented individuals
โขย ย Well-above-average earning potential
โขย ย Industry is experiencing above-average job growth
Cons:
โขย ย May require long working hours
โขย ย Can be a high-pressure job
โขย ย Certain aspects may be more challenging, including working with a wide range of customers
7. Elevator and Escalator Installer and Repairer
Median pay: $97,860/year
Job growth outlook: 3%
Job description: Elevator and escalator installers and repairers assist with the installation, maintenance, and repair of elevator and escalator systems in commercial and residential properties.
Job duties and requirements:
โขย ย Develop and implement plans for elevator or escalator installation
โขย ย Maintain, service, and repair elevator and escalator equipment
โขย ย High school diploma or equivalent
How to get started: The typical path to becoming an elevator and escalator installer and repairer begins with completing an apprenticeship. Apprentices may join a program approved by a union or trade industry to learn the necessary skills.
Pros:
โขย ย No advanced degree needed to get started
โขย ย Great earning potential for high school grads who are interested in a hands-on technical job
โขย ย While job growth is slower than for other occupations, there continues to be high demand for workers with these skills
Cons:
โขย ย May need to work on-call, which can complicate work-life balance
โขย ย Elevator installers and repairers generally need to be comfortable working in close or cramped conditions
โขย ย The work can sometimes be hazardous
8. Power Plant Operator, Distributors, and Dispatchers
Median pay: $94,790/year
Job growth outlook: -15%
Job description: Power plant operators, distributors, and dispatchers oversee systems that generate and distribute electric power. Nuclear power reactor workers can also fall within this job category.
Job duties and requirements:
โขย ย Control and maintain equipment thatโs used in power generation
โขย ย Routinely conduct safety checks to ensure equipment is functioning properly
โขย ย High school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job work experience
How to get started: A college degree is not required to work as a power plant operator, though it may benefit you to have an educational background in engineering or a related field. This job emphasizes extensive on-the-job training, though itโs possible you may need to obtain certain professional certifications for career advancement.
Pros:
โขย ย No degree is needed to qualify for this job
โขย ย Much of what you need to know can be learned on the job
โขย ย Power plant operators earn a competitive salary
Cons:
โขย ย Can involve hazardous working conditions
โขย ย May require working long hours or on-call
โขย ย Job growth is on the decline as use of renewable energy increases
9. Radiation Therapist
Median pay: $82,790/year
Job growth outlook: 6%
Job description: Radiation therapists administer radiation to people being treated for cancer and may work hand-in-hand with medical dosimetrists, medical physicists, and oncology nurses.
Job duties and requirements:
โขย ย Explain treatments to patients and answer any questions they might have
โขย ย Administer doses of radiation in a safe environment and at the levels specified by the patientโs treatment plan
โขย ย Associate degree or certificate program
How to get started: If youโre interested in a career in radiation therapy, you may need an associate degree in nursing or a certificate in nursing to qualify. State law may also require you to be licensed or certified and complete ongoing education requirements.
Pros:
โขย ย Earning potential is solid and there may be room for advancement
โขย ย Demand for radiation therapists appears to be holding steady
โขย ย Good for people with strong soft skills
Cons:
โขย ย May require working long hours
โขย ย Can involve a lot of standing
โขย ย Working with people who are severely ill can take a toll emotionally and mentally
10. Subway and Streetcar Operator
Median pay: $81,180/year
Job growth outlook: 4%
Job description: Subway and streetcar operators are responsible for the safe operation of subway trains, streetcars, and similar methods of transportation in compliance with local, state, and federal laws.
Job duties and requirements:
โขย ย Operate subway or elevated trains or streetcars to convey passengers from one location to another
โขย ย Some subway or streetcar operators may be charged with collecting fares
โขย ย High school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job experience
How to get started: Youโll need a high school diploma or GED to apply for subway or streetcar operator jobs. Thatโs typically sufficient to get most entry-level positions and from that point on, youโll largely learn what you need to know to do the job through hands-on training and experience.
Pros:
โขย ย Pay scale is great for a job with no degree
โขย ย Not required to sit at a desk all day
โขย ย Working hours may be flexible
Cons:
โขย ย May involve dealing directly with the public
โขย ย There is some risk, as subway and streetcar accidents can happen
โขย ย No hard physical labor but may be mentally and emotionally draining
11. Signal and Track Switch Repairer
Median pay: $80,570/year
Job growth outlook: 4%
Job description: Signal and track switch repairers are responsible for keeping track switch systems used on rail lines functioning properly. They primarily work within the railroad system, though they may also be employed by state and local government agencies.
Job duties and requirements:
โขย ย Install and inspect track switches and signal equipment
โขย ย Test, maintain, and repair gate crossings along railroad lines
โขย ย High school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training
How to get started: Getting an associate degree in electrical repair could give you an edge if youโre interested in getting hired as a signal and track switch repairer. However, itโs possible to break into this field with just a high school diploma because much of what the job requires is learned in a hands-on way. Completing an apprenticeship with an electrician could also be helpful.
Pros:
โขย ย No degree is required to enter this industry, though itโs something to consider
โขย ย Room for advancement
โขย ย Above-average pay
Cons:
โขย ย Generally requires good communication skills
โขย ย Work has the potential to be hazardous
โขย ย May require working on-call hours or long shifts
12. Postmaster and Mail Superintendent
Median pay: $80,250/year
Job growth outlook: -5%
Job description: Postmasters and mail superintendents oversee the operation of postal service branches and offices. This is technically not a federal job, but postal workers are entitled to the same benefits as federal employees.
Job duties and requirements:
โขย ย Plan, direct, and coordinate administrative, operational, management, and support services at U.S. post office locations
โขย ย Oversee the activities of employees working at post office branches
โขย ย High school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training
How to get started: If youโre interested in postal service jobs, you can apply for them online through the post office website. Youโll need to complete the Postal Battery Exam, but no degree or prior experience is required in order to get hired. This could be a good way to continue working after retirement.
Pros:
โขย ย Room for advancement
โขย ย Competitive pay and great benefits, including paid leave and health insurance
โขย ย Full-time postmasters generally have weekends off
Cons:
โขย ย Seasonality can make this job more hectic at certain times of the year
โขย ย May involve dealing with the public from time to time
โขย ย Job growth is on a slight decline, though there continues to be demand for postal workers
13. First-Line Supervisor of Firefighting and Prevention Workers
Median pay: $80,890/year
Job growth outlook: 4%
Job description: First-line supervisors oversee the activities of firefighting and prevention workers. Theyโre responsible for coordinating the operation of fire departments and may be referred to as a fire chief or fire captain.
Job duties and requirements:
โขย ย Respond to fire calls and assign firefighters specific tasks to extinguish fires and rescue persons who may be trapped in affected buildings
โขย ย Assess fire damage and write reports summarizing fire calls
โขย ย Postsecondary non-degree certificate and on-the-job training
How to get started: A high school diploma may be sufficient to apply for a firefighter job, though it may benefit you to earn a degree in fire science if youโre hoping to obtain a managerial or supervisory role. Youโll need to be physically fit, attend fire academy, and complete a written exam as part of the application process.
Pros:
โขย ย Opportunity to give back to your local community and do work thatโs rewarding
โขย ย Solid earning potential with room for advancement
โขย ย Firefighting jobs include a solid employee benefits package
Cons:
โขย ย Can involve working long hours and on-call hours, which can make achieving work-life balance difficult
โขย ย Job may be physically demanding
โขย ย Firefighting can also be mentally and emotionally taxing
14. Dental Hygienist
Median pay: $77,810/year
Job growth outlook: 9%
Job description: Dental hygienists typically work in dental offices and perform basic preventative care for patients, including visual exams and cleanings. They may work on a part-time or full-time basis.
Job duties and requirements:
โขย ย Perform dental cleanings and take X-rays
โขย ย Educate patients on proper dental hygiene techniques
โขย ย Associateโs degree and licensing, when required by the state
How to get started: High school graduates who have taken courses in health or science may have a good framework for pursuing an associate degree in dental hygiene or enrolling in a dental hygiene training program. Licensing and certification may be required by the state before you can work in a dentistโs office.
Pros:
โขย ย May offer the flexibility of part-time or full-time work
โขย ย Potentially a great job for people who enjoy interacting with others
โขย ย Dental hygienists typically have nights and weekends off
Cons:
โขย ย Some patients may be more challenging to work with than others
โขย ย May require lots of standing and bending which can take a toll physically
โขย ย Training and licensing can take time and money to complete
15. Police Officer and Detective
Median pay: $66,020/year
Job growth outlook: 3%
Job description: Police officers enforce the law and protect people and property. Detectives investigate crimes, which can include collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses and potential suspects, and testifying in criminal court cases.
Job duties and requirements:
โขย ย Police officers respond to emergency and non-emergency calls, patrol assigned areas, make arrests, and execute search warrants
โขย ย Detectives investigate crimes in order to identify victims and suspects, and collect evidence for cases that may be referred for prosecution
โขย ย High school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training
How to get started: A high school diploma may be all you need to apply for police officer training at a local accredited academy. Some departments may require an associate or bachelorโs degree. Youโll need to be physically fit and successfully complete a psychological evaluation.
Pros:
โขย ย Opportunity to serve in your local community and give back
โขย ย Room for advancement, particularly if youโre interested in detective work or a supervisory role
โขย ย Opportunities for specialization if youโre interested in becoming a game warden or eventually pursuing a career in federal law enforcement
Cons:
โขย ย Entry-level pay may be on the lower end
โขย ย While a degree is not necessarily required, getting hired can be a rigorous process
โขย ย Work involved can be mentally, emotionally, and physically taxing, and in some cases dangerous
16. Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanic and Technician
Median pay: $65,550/year
Job growth outlook: 6%
Job description: Aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians maintain and repair aircraft. They can work at airports, repair stations, or hangars, and some may have previous experience serving planes in the military.
Job duties and requirements:
โขย ย Diagnose mechanical or electrical problems with aircraft and make repairs
โขย ย Test aircraft instruments to ensure that theyโre in good working order
โขย ย High school diploma, though an associateโs degree doesnโt hurt
How to get started: People who are interested in working in avionics may be able to enter the field with just a high school diploma, though some employers may look for an associate degree or higher. Technicians may need to complete FAA-approved training.
Pros:
โขย ย The work itself might be interesting to someone whoโs fascinated with planes or mechanical engineering
โขย ย Above-average pay
โขย ย Job growth outlook suggests that these jobs will continue to be in demand
Cons:
โขย ย Working around airplanes and other aircraft can lead to hearing loss
โขย ย FAA certification is required, which can take time to complete
โขย ย Work schedules may be less flexible than other jobs
17. Claims Adjuster, Examiner, Appraiser, and Investigator
Median pay: $64,710/year
Job growth outlook: -6%
Job description: Claims adjusters, examiners, appraisers, and investigators handle various aspects of insurance claims filings. They typically work full-time and help insurance companies decide when to pay claims, based on the information they gather.
Job duties and requirements:
โขย ย Investigate, evaluate, and settle insurance claims, including determining how much an insurer should pay
โขย ย Review claims information to look for signs of insurance fraud
โขย ย High school diploma or equivalent
How to get started: If youโre interested in insurance jobs, the path you follow can depend on what type of role youโre interested in. If youโd like to be an appraiser, for instance, you might complete a postsecondary non-degree award program and gain experience by working in an auto body shop.
Pros:
โขย ย While job growth is expected to decline, demand for adjusters and related roles is set to rise as currently employed professionals age into retirement
โขย ย Depending on which role youโre interested in, your work may take you outside the office versus keeping you at a desk all day
โขย ย Work may be interesting for people who have an inquisitive nature
Cons:
โขย ย Gathering information and writing reports can be tedious
โขย ย A bachelorโs degree may be required for certain jobs
โขย ย Work schedules may be less flexible than other jobs
18. Fire Inspector
Median pay: $63,080/year
Job growth outlook: 6%
Job description: Fire inspectors are responsible for visiting commercial and residential buildings and ensuring that theyโre observing proper fire safety protocol. They can also specialize in fire prevention education or forest fire management.
Job duties and requirements:
โขย ย Inspect buildings to look for fire hazards and ensure that structures are aligned with local, state, and federal fire codes
โขย ย Review building plans with developers to ensure that new construction meets fire code standards
โขย ย High school diploma or equivalent and previous experience as a firefighter
How to get started: Typically, fire inspectors first work as firefighters, though that isnโt necessarily a requirement for candidates who have other suitable education or training. A high school diploma may be sufficient for the job, though it may benefit you to earn a degree in fire science or attend a fire academy.
Pros:
โขย ย Fire inspection is typically less hazardous than firefighting
โขย ย Above-average pay with room for higher earnings if you decide to complete a degree program
โขย ย Can be a rewarding job for people who want to do work that serves the public good
Cons:
โขย ย Previous experience as a firefighter may be a requirement to get hired
โขย ย Working hours may be long and irregular
โขย ย Fire inspectors may potentially be exposed to hazardous materials or substances during the course of their work
19. Water Transportation Worker
Median pay: $62,760/year
Job growth outlook: 1%
Job description: Water transportation workers operate vessels that transport goods or people over bodies of water. Ferry operators, barge operators, and ship captains are all examples of water transportation workers.
Job duties and requirements:
โขย ย Operate and maintain marine vessels in accordance with local, state, and federal laws
โขย ย Ensure the safety of people or cargo on board marine vessels
โขย ย High school diploma or equivalent and relevant work experience
How to get started: There are different requirements for each type of water transportation role. Sailors, for instance, typically donโt need formal education, but you might need Coast Guard-approved training to captain a ship or helm a barge. Certain water transport workers may need to obtain Merchant Mariner credentials or Transportation Worker Identification credentials.
Pros:
โขย ย Water transport jobs may appeal to people who love being on open water or want to work outdoors
โขย ย A bachelorโs degree isnโt always necessary but it could lead to higher earnings and promotions
โขย ย More new openings are expected over the next decade as existing water transport workers retire
Cons:
โขย ย Work schedule may be highly irregular and require you to spend extended periods of time away from home
โขย ย Work hours may be long, with little time for breaks
โขย ย Operating marine vessels can be a hazardous occupation
20. Electrical and Electronics Installer and Repairer
Median pay: $61,760/year
Job growth outlook: -1%
Job description: Electrical and electronics installers get paid to install and repair electrical or electronic equipment. They may work in repair shops or factories and usually work on a full-time basis.
Job duties and requirements:
โขย ย Inspect and test equipment to diagnose potential issues
โขย ย Disassemble, reassemble, clean, and repair equipment
โขย ย Training and education at the trade school level
How to get started: Electrical and electronics installers and repairers are typically expected to complete a training program through a trade, vocational, or technical school. Hands-on training, either through a school program or apprenticeship, can also be highly useful when seeking these types of jobs.
Pros:
โขย ย No bachelorโs degree required
โขย ย Could be ideal for people who enjoy hands-on work
โขย ย Licensing and certification may not be required, but it could help to open up opportunities for advancement or higher earnings
Cons:
โขย ย Job growth is stable but not spectacular
โขย ย Working around electricity and electronics is not a risk-free job
โขย ย Can be a physical job that requires lots of standing, squatting, bending, and lifting
21. Occupational Therapy Assistant and Aide
Median pay: $61,520/year
Job growth outlook: 25%
Job description: Occupational therapy assistants and aids work in healthcare settings, including hospitals, doctorโs offices, and nursing care facilities. They help patients to develop necessary skills for daily living and working.
Job duties and requirements:
โขย ย Occupational therapy assistants provide therapy services to patients
โขย ย Occupational therapy aides provide support services to occupational therapy assistants
โขย ย High school diploma for aides; associate degree for assistants
How to get started: If youโre interested in becoming an occupational therapy assistant aide, then a high school diploma may be all you need. You could pursue an associate degree if youโd like to advance into an occupational therapy assistant role. Certifications in CPR and basic life support may also be required for these types of jobs.
Pros:
โขย ย One of the fastest growing jobs in healthcare with excellent demand for qualified candidates
โขย ย Great earnings potential for people with a high school diploma
โขย ย May allow for travel or flexible work schedules
Cons:
โขย ย Can be a physically demanding job
โขย ย Flexible working hours are not always guaranteed, and you may need to work nights or weekends
โขย ย Certain patients may be more challenging to care for than others
22. Court Reporter and Simultaneous Captioner
Median pay: $60,380/year
Job growth outlook: 1%
Job description: Court reporters transcribe official court proceedings, including trial proceedings, hearings, and depositions. Simultaneous captioners provide transcription services for video recordings that require closed captioning.
Job duties and requirements:
โขย ย Court reporters attend court proceedings and transcribe the details word-for-word
โขย ย Captioners transcribe dialogue for video recordings, including television shows and films, that are used to create captions for viewers
โขย ย Certificate or associate degree
How to get started: Becoming a court reporter or captioner may start with completing a certificate or associate degree program at an accredited trade school. Court reporters may need to complete additional training to learn how to use transcription software. States may require certification or licensing for court reporters and captioners.
Pros:
โขย ย Good-paying job for people without a four-year degree
โขย ย Opportunities exist to do court transcription or captioning work on a freelance basis
โขย ย While job growth is steady, rather than fast, demand is stable overall
Cons:
โขย ย Work may involve sitting for long periods of time
โขย ย Working hours may be long and might necessitate taking work home with you
โขย ย Could be stressful as thereโs no room for errors or mistakes
23. Telecommunications Equipment Installer and Repairer
Median pay: $60,370/year
Job growth outlook: 8%
Job description: Telecommunications and equipment installers and repairers are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing telecommunications equipment, including phone lines, cable lines, and wireless communication equipment.
Job duties and requirements:
โขย ย Install telecommunications equipment in commercial and residential structures
โขย ย Inspect, service, and repair telecommunications equipment
โขย ย Certificate or associate degree
How to get started: Telecom equipment installation and repair jobs typically require some form of education beyond high school. Depending on the employer, that might mean a certificate or associate degree. Once hired, you can expect to complete on-the-job training.
Pros:
โขย ย May involve travel or working in different settings, which is great for people who get bored easily
โขย ย Salaries are above-average, with room to advance and increase earnings
โขย ย Affords opportunities to meet new people and flex your problem-solving skills
Cons:
โขย ย Average salaries are not as high as what you might get with other good paying jobs that donโt require college
โขย ย Additional education may be required for certain jobs
โขย ย This kind of work has the potential be dangerous; for example, there is a risk of falls associated with servicing cell phone towers
24. Commercial Diver
Median pay: $60,360/year
Job growth outlook: 15%
Job description: Commercial divers can work in a number of capacities, but generally theyโre paid to use their scuba skills. For example, divers employed by the oil and gas industry may be charged with inspecting underwater drilling structures to check for damage or structural issues.
Job duties and requirements:
โขย ย Some commercial divers are paid to inspect and repair underwater structures and equipment
โขย ย Other commercial divers may earn a living by photographing marine life
โขย ย Postsecondary non-degree award and scuba training
How to get started: Becoming a commercial diver starts with deciding what type of work you want to do. For instance, if you want to get paid to photograph marine life, then you may want to complete a photography certificate program at an accredited school. If youโre interested in using your diving skills to repair underwater structures, then you may need to learn a specialized skill like welding.
Pros:
โขย ย Diving for a living can be a fun job for people who like being in the water
โขย ย Advanced education or training may not be a requirement for entry-level jobs
โขย ย Diving jobs can offer flexibility and great earning potential
Cons:
โขย ย Can be physically demanding
โขย ย Work may not always be steady or consistent if youโre hired as a contract worker
โขย ย Diving is an inherently dangerous activity
25. Drafter
Median pay: $60,290/year
Job growth outlook: -3%
Job description: Drafters use software programs to convert engineering and architectural designs into technical drawings. They may work in a variety of fields, including architecture, engineering, manufacturing, and construction. This could be a lucrative work-at-home job for retirees.
Job duties and requirements:
โขย ย Use Computer Aided Design (CAD) software to design plans, working from sketches done by architects or engineers
โขย ย Specify dimensions and materials for new building projects
โขย ย Certificate, diploma, or associate degree
How to get started: Drafters may continue their high school education by attending a trade school to obtain a certificate or associate degree. They may also opt to obtain certifications in their field, though that isnโt always necessary to get hired.
Pros:
โขย ย Drafting may be a good career for someone whoโs artistic or creative
โขย ย Getting certification or earning a four-year degree could boost your earning potential
โขย ย Job growth is projected to slow but there will still be demand for drafters as current employees retire
Cons:
โขย ย Requires exceptional attention to detail with no room for error
โขย ย Economic disruptions, such as recessions, may reduce demand for drafters if construction slows
โขย ย Certain aspects of the job can be repetitive or tedious
The Takeaway
Finding a good paying job without college is possible. Some require technical education, military training, or on-the-job experience. Industries that welcome high school grads include transportation, law enforcement, power plants, telecoms, the postal service, and healthcare. Perks can include the opportunity to travel and flexible hours. Some jobs pay more than $100K.
Using a spending app can help you stay on top of your financial situation once you finally begin collecting a paycheck. SoFi Insights money tracker app can simplify the way you manage your income, budgets, and savings goals. See all of your money in one place, and even track your credit score as you work on improving your financial health.
FAQ
What good jobs can you get if you donโt go to college?
Some good paying jobs you can get without college include air traffic controller, law enforcement, and certain healthcare roles. Trade jobs and jobs in transportation can also pay well and donโt necessarily require a college degree.
How can I get 6 figures without going to college?
If youโre interested in making six figures without a college degree, youโll need to either find a good paying job or start a successful business. Itโs possible to make six figures online as a freelance writer or blogger, if you have good writing skills and are motivated to grow your business.
How do people make a living without a college degree?
Plenty of people make a living without a college degree by using their skills and experience to land good paying jobs. Others can earn a good living, including making six figures a year, by starting their own business, which doesnโt necessarily require a degree.
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