According to a survey, the list of the highest-paying jobs that require no degree may surprise you. As the expense of education continues to rise, astute job seekers are searching for strategies to make the most of their time and money. Think about the skyrocketing cost of college. The Education Data Initiative reports that college tuition has doubled since 2000 and grown by 197.4% since 1963. Is the investment worthwhile in light of these astronomically huge increases?
Well-known businesses are arguing that investing in college is not required. Major firms are easing their degree requirements, including Amazon, Walmart, Apple, GM, Bank of America, Uber, Nike, Delta Air Lines, and Target. However, has anything changed? The president of the Burning Glass Institute, which does data-driven research on workplace issues, Matt Sigelman, stated, “Unfortunately, what we found is for the most part, employers are still hiring the same people they were before.” According to recent data, choosing the appropriate career, rather than merely the right company, is the quick route to a higher wage.
These occupations are worth considering, given that 100% of American workers are attempting to increase their income and that over 60% of workers lack a college degree. Interestingly, just over a third (36.18%) of the high-paying non-college-degree job advertisements that Final Round AI examined on Glassdoor required some sort of degree. These are the best opportunities in the country, compiled from research from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Indeed.com, and Zip Recruiter.
Top 12 Highest Paying Jobs Without a Degree
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Commercial Pilot
The average salary for a commercial pilot is $121,430. Commercial pilots fly airplanes for airlines, overseeing flight operations and making sure passengers are safe. They have to interact with air traffic control and manage emergencies while in flight. Effective communication and prompt decision-making are essential. FAA certification and extensive aviation industry training are prerequisites for becoming a commercial pilot. Being a commercial pilot is one of the highest-paying jobs that do not require you to have a degree.
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Elevator Installer and Repairer
The Average Pay for an Elevator Installer and Repairer is $84,990. The principal duties are that these experts are to install and fix escalators and elevators. Their efforts guarantee elevator systems’ effectiveness and safety. Physical endurance and mechanical expertise are required. To work in this area, you usually need to complete an apprenticeship program.
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Power Plant Operator
Technical proficiency and meticulousness are required skills. Average Pay for a Power Plant Operator: $81,990. Power plant operators oversee the functioning of power plants, regulate equipment, and guarantee the production of electricity. They keep an eye on meters, gauges, and equipment to make sure everything is operating as it should. Certification and on-the-job training are typically necessary.
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Electrician
Technical proficiency and physical fitness are important requirements. The average salary for an electrician is $56,180. This is one of the highest-paying jobs you can find in the USA without a degree. Installing and maintaining electrical systems in buildings is one of the key duties of electricians. They guarantee electrical safety and examine blueprints. The required training is given through an apprenticeship program.
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Sound Engineering Technician
Typically, one needs an associate’s degree or a technical school. The average salary for a sound engineering technician is $53,520. Technicians in sound engineering set up and run audio equipment for recordings and events. They provide excellent sound production. Creativity and technical proficiency are crucial. Â
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Sales Representative
Unarguably, effective communication and negotiation are critical abilities. Usually, sales experience is required. The average salary for a sales representative is $63,000. Salespeople offer goods and services to customers or businesses. Additionally, they fulfill sales goals and cultivate relationships with clients.Â
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Power Distributor and Dispatcher
Technical expertise and fast decision-making are essential. For this position, on-the-job training is offered. The average salary for a power distributor and dispatcher is $85,960. These experts regulate how electricity moves from power plants to end users. They keep an eye on systems and make sure power is distributed consistently.
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Occupational Therapy Assistant
Patient care and empathy are crucial. Both certification and an associate’s degree are necessary. The average salary for an occupational therapy assistant is $61,510. Occupational therapy assistants’ primary duties include assisting patients in regaining and developing their everyday life abilities. They support therapeutic activities and exercises.Â
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Radiologic Technologist
Technical proficiency and patient care are necessary. Programs for certification offer the required instruction. The average salary for a radiologic technologist is $62,280. X-rays and other diagnostic imaging tests are carried out by radiologic technologists. They run imaging machines and get patients ready.
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Executive AssistantÂ
Multitasking and organizational skills are essential. Usually, administrative experience is necessary. The mean income is $63,110. Executive assistants’ primary duties include managing schedules and assisting executives with administrative duties. They plan meetings and manage correspondence.
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Web Developer
Creativity and programming abilities are crucial. A lot of web developers go to coding boot camps or learn on their own. The average salary for a web developer is $73,760. Web developers’ primary duties include building and maintaining websites while guaranteeing their usability and functionality. They write code and fix problems with websites. Factually, a web developer’s job is one of the highest-paying jobs in the USA that does not require a degree. This does not rule out the fact that some web developers have computer science backgrounds. Many work remotely and earn six-figure jobs by specializing in mobile app development, machine learning, and e-commerce platforms. Coding skills in JavaScript, Python, and HTML increase earning potential.
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Aircraft Mechanic
The average salary for an aircraft mechanic is $65,230. Aircraft mechanics’ primary duties include maintaining and repairing aircraft to guarantee their performance and safety. Also, they provide routine maintenance and inspections. Moreover, technical proficiency and meticulousness are essential. Notably, working as an airplane mechanic requires FAA certification.
Furthermore, honorable mention should be given to several other professions. Owner/operators of trucks can make, on average, about $210,000 annually. Although an owner should be on a different list because they are officially an entrepreneur, their profit potential places them at the top of this one. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nuclear technicians make an average of $101,740 annually. Because there are only 28 states with at least one nuclear power plant, this position is location-specific. Indeed, there are several chances to convert valuable experience into a well-paying position; these positions will differ according to the industry and region.
How to Land the Highest Paying Jobs Without a Degree
Without a degree, landing a well-paying job demands preparation and dedication to learning the necessary skills. You may get ready for these profitable career opportunities by following the practical measures listed below.
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Learn the Skills You Need for the Highest Paying Jobs
Determine the abilities needed for the position you want and concentrate on learning them through training and experience. Also, endeavour to utilize low-cost or free resources to develop these abilities. Furthermore, industry workshops, community college courses, and online tutorials can all offer important information and expertise.
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 Take Online Courses
You can acquire pertinent skills and credentials by enrolling in online courses offered by platforms like as Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning. Furthermore, these classes cover a lot of ground and are frequently self-paced. Moreover, by completing these courses, you may show prospective employers how committed you are and improve your resume.
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Go for Vocational Education in the Highest Paying Jobs
Community colleges and vocational institutions offer practical instruction in a range of well-paying trades. Generally speaking, programs are less expensive and shorter than four-year degrees. Additionally, by obtaining the certificates and licenses needed for particular positions, this training can increase your marketability.
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Get Experience in the Highest Paying Jobs
To obtain real-world experience in your industry, look for volunteer work, part-time jobs, or internships. Employers frequently value practical experience over academic schooling. Making connections with experts in the field you want to work in might also result in employment prospects and beneficial mentoring.
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Make Professional Connections in the Highest Paying Jobs Industry
To open doors to career prospects, connect with professionals on LinkedIn, go to networking events, and join industry groups. Through networking, one can learn about employment openings and industry trends. Also, developing connections with people in the field can result in job suggestions and referrals.
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Keep Abreast of Industry Developments of the Highest Paying Jobs
To stay up to date on the newest trends and job openings, regularly read industry news and follow prominent professionals. However, you may stay current by joining professional associations and subscribing to industry newsletters. Additionally, keeping up with industry advancements guarantees that your abilities stay applicable and in demand.
Read also:Â Jobs in the USA for Females
What are the Least Stressful Jobs Without a Degree?
Nowadays, a lot of individuals want employment that are less stressful than office positions and offer a decent work-life balance. You’re at the correct place if you’re searching for a career that doesn’t require a degree but still provides flexibility, low stress levels, and opportunities for advancement.
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Designer of Graphics
One of the most sought-after careers is graphic design, which can be pursued without a degree. To learn, modify, and use, all you need is a course or simple tools like Canva. Nowadays, every business decides to use social media to increase their presence, which indicates that there are a ton of customer chances available. Also, it’s simple and hassle-free for freelance graphic designers to offer design-related services from the comfort of their own homes or other locations.
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Social Media Managers
Comparatively speaking, social media administration is likewise a rather easy and stress-free job. Given that every organization is currently looking to establish an online presence, social media management is a perfect professional path to pursue to have a simple, pleasurable, and stress-free business model. While some skills and analytical knowledge are necessary, knowing how to manage a social media account is not difficult at all. Finally, managing your own social media accounts, gaining followers, and providing services to startups or small businesses are good places to start.
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Reselling Online
Being an online reseller could be a terrific, low-stress career if you like to find good offers and have an eye for trends. Moreover, on websites like eBay, Amazon, or Depop, online resellers buy products like apparel, gadgets, or collectibles and resell them for a profit. Because you may work from home, create your schedule, and concentrate on things that interest you, this profession offers a great deal of flexibility.
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Content Writers
For people who enjoy writing and are capable of creating excellent, captivating content, content writing is an excellent career choice. Furthermore, to advertise their goods and services, a lot of companies require blog entries, articles, website content, and even marketing materials. Also, depending on your preferences, you can focus as a content writer on topics like business, lifestyle, technology, health, or education. If you enjoy the process and have the freedom to work at your own pace, writing may frequently be a low-stress career. Because they may pick how many tasks they take on, freelance writers can efficiently regulate their stress levels.
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Virtual and Executive Assistants
Virtual assistants support companies with administrative duties like scheduling, data entry, email management, research, and more. Interestingly, you set your hours and can take on as much work as you can manage as a virtual assistant. Since they work as independent contractors, many virtual assistants have financial autonomy.
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Transcription Services
The task of transcription is straightforward. It involves listening to audio and recording it. You may be asked to transcribe notes, interviews, or podcasts. Pay is based on your accuracy and speed of typing, and it’s low-stress work that can be done remotely. Also, good listening skills and quick typing are crucial, although a degree is not required. Many transcriptionists have flexible schedules and work as independent contractors. Ruul’s payment tools make it simple to get compensated for your labor.
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Taker of Online Surveys
Online surveys are a simple and stress-free way to earn some additional cash on the side, but they won’t make you wealthy. Interestingly, people are being sought after by numerous market research firms to offer their opinions on commercials, goods, and services. Also, you can earn a little to share your thoughts by taking part in surveys. Surveys are a great alternative for anyone searching for a simple and flexible job because they don’t require any official qualifications or expertise, and you can work on them in your free time.
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Website Tester
Another career that can be very fulfilling but doesn’t require a degree is website testing. Numerous businesses require input on the general performance, usability, and functioning of their websites. You get paid to browse websites and report any problems or ideas for enhancements as a website tester. For those who want to explore websites and apps, this profession is ideal. You may work from home in this low-stress position, and depending on how many tests you finish, the remuneration can be respectable.
