Having a four-year bachelor’s degree is the best way to get a high paying job. Yet, it’s undeniable that the high cost of a college education may be out of reach for some people. So what are your options? There are many high-paying jobs that don’t require a bachelor’s degree. You only need to have a high school diploma or a two-year associate’s degree to be eligible for the following jobs:
High-Paying Jobs That Don’t Require a College Degree
15. Brick Masons
Average Annual Salary: $51,750
Requirement: High school diploma
Brick masons lay and bind building materials, especially brick, as well as concrete blocks, cinder blocks, and mortar. They can work for construction firms or start their own business.
14. Costume Attendants
Average Annual Salary: $52,870
Requirement: High school diploma
Costume attendants enjoy the glamor of stage and screen while earning good money. They are in high demand in urban areas such as New York and Los Angeles. The job involves selecting costumes and fitting cast members before and during a performance.
13. Catering Managers
Average Annual Salary: 53,640
Requirement: High school diploma
A career in the food services sector is fast-paced and fun. This job involves planning and directing catered food occasions. Be prepared to work weekends.
12. Gas Station Operators
Average Annual Salary: $57,000
Requirement: High school diploma
As of 2017, there are about 150,000 gas stations operating in the United States, so there’s still a considerable demand for gas station operators. This job requires familiarity with various fuel products. Knowledge of basic car repair is a big plus.
11. Real Estate Agents
Average Annual Salary: $58,000
Requirement: High school diploma
There are 1.3 million real estate agents in the US as of 2017. If you want this type of job, you should be familiar with home designs, real estate contracts, and sales. The more you know, the more houses you will sell.
10. Web Developers
Average Annual Salary: $66,130
Requirement: High school diploma
Creating and designing websites remain in high demand. High school education is enough to enter this field, although an associate’s degree would be helpful. You can either work for a company as a web developer, or become a freelancer and find clients online.
9. Casino Managers
Average Annual Salary: $69,000
Requirement: High school diploma
Working as a casino manager can be a pressure-packed job, as you will be dealing with money. You will start as a casino dealer and work your way up to a higher position.
8. Transportation Vehicle Inspectors
Average Annual Salary: $72,140
Requirement: High school diploma
Transportation inspectors check and monitor vehicle performance (sedans, vans, and trucks). While only a high education is required, you must have a background in vehicle repair and construction.
7. Dental Hygienists
Average Annual Salary: $74,070
Requirement: Associate’s degree
Working in this field is stable, thanks to the steady supply of patients who need dental treatments. This job involves cleaning teeth, taking x-rays, and assisting a dentist.
6. Postmasters and Mail Superintendents
Average Annual Salary: $74,840
Requirement: High school diploma
Postmasters plan, direct, and coordinate operational, administrative, management, and support services of a post office. They also coordinate the activities of workers engaged in postal services and related work.
5. Commercial Pilots
Average Annual Salary: $78,740
Requirement: High school diploma
Commercial pilots must have at least a high school diploma. If you want to fly an airplane, you must undergo flight school training and earn a commercial pilot’s license from the US Federal Aviation Administration.
4. Elevator Installers and Repair Technicians
Average Annual Salary: $79,480
Requirement: High school education
There is a high demand for elevator installers and repair technicians, while there are only 22,000 professionals in this industry as of 2017. It is expected to grow at a rate of 12.1% through 2026, thanks to the increasing number of residential, commercial, and office buildings.
3. Detectives and Criminal Investigators
Average Annual Salary: $79,970
Requirement: High school diploma
This is a specialized line of work that requires patience, diligence, and keen intuition. The growth rate for this industry is 4.5%, meaning the demand is strong for detectives and criminal investigators.
2. Nuclear Power Reactor Operators
Average Annual Salary: $93,370
Requirement: High school diploma
A career in this field is easier to obtain than you might think. Obviously, you need to undergo training, but you don’t need to have a college degree to qualify. This job involves starting/stopping reactor equipment, monitoring/adjusting controls, and implementing emergency procedures if needed. Although this job pays well, it has a low demand since the use of nuclear power is not that widespread.
1. Air Traffic Controllers
Average Annual Salary: $96,980
Requirement: Associate’s degree
Air traffic controllers guide aircraft safely through the air and help them land on the ground with no mishaps. Training is necessary.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are many high-paying jobs that don’t require a college degree. Even if you’re only armed with a high school diploma or an associate’s degree, you can still land a job that will pay the bills and earn you a decent living. All that’s needed is a bit of training, perseverance, and most important of all, passion for your chosen career.
