Have you ever felt like you are stuck in a dead-end job due to lack of qualifications? Or, are you looking for ways to enrich your professional skills without investing in a college degree?
The good news is, you don’t necessarily need a degree to access high-paying jobs in today’s job market. Many industries are opening up opportunities for non-degree holders to break into lucrative career paths.
In this article, we will explore some of the best jobs you can get without a degree and reveal alternative career paths that offer high salaries without a degree.
We will also provide tips on how to succeed in these fields, showcase frequently asked questions and offer pro tips for success.
Best Jobs You Can Get Without a Degree According to Industry Experts
Medical Records Technician
Medical records technicians organize medical records for healthcare facilities. They are responsible for ensuring the accuracy, accessibility, and security of patient medical records.
The annual median salary for this job is $42,630, and the projected job growth is 8% from 2019 to 2029. You can become a medical records technician through a postsecondary certificate program that takes less than a year to complete.
Wind Turbine Technician
Wind turbine technicians inspect, repair, and maintain wind turbines. They are responsible for ensuring that turbines produce energy efficiently and safely.
The annual median salary for a wind turbine technician is $52,910, and the projected job growth is 61% from 2019 to 2029. You can become a wind turbine technician by completing a postsecondary non-degree program or an on-the-job training program.
Community Health Worker
Community health workers help people access healthcare services. They educate people on healthy behaviors, advocate for patients’ rights, and provide basic medical care.
The annual median salary for a community health worker is $40,360, and the projected job growth is 13% from 2019 to 2029. While a college degree is not required, some states require a postsecondary non-degree certificate program.
Landscaper and Groundskeeper
Landscapers and groundskeepers maintain outdoor spaces for homes, parks, and businesses. They are responsible for mowing lawns, planting flowers, and maintaining landscapes.
The annual median salary for a landscaper and groundskeeper is $30,440, and the projected job growth is 8% from 2019 to 2029. While no formal education is required, some experience or training is desirable.
Home Health Aide
Home health aides provide care to people who are unable to take care of themselves. They help patients with daily activities such as bathing, grooming, and eating.
The annual median salary for a home health aide is $25,280, and the projected job growth is 34% from 2019 to 2029. To become a home health aide, you will need to complete a postsecondary non-degree certificate program.
Alternative Career Paths That Offer High Salaries without a Degree
Commercial Pilots
Commercial pilots fly planes for airlines and cargo companies. They are responsible for ensuring that flights are safe and efficient. The annual median salary for a commercial pilot is $121,430, and the projected job growth is 5% from 2019 to 2029.
To become a commercial pilot, you will need to complete a postsecondary non-degree certificate program, and obtain a commercial pilot’s license.
Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers
Transportation, storage, and distribution managers coordinate the transportation of goods from one place to another. They are responsible for ensuring that shipments are delivered safely and on time.
The annual median salary for a transportation, storage, and distribution manager is $94,560, and the projected job growth is 6% from 2019 to 2029. While a college degree is not required, some experience in transportation or logistics is necessary.
First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives
First-line supervisors of police and detectives are responsible for coordinating and overseeing police investigations. They are responsible for ensuring that police officers follow proper procedures and that investigations are conducted fairly.
The annual median salary for a first-line supervisor of police and detectives is $93,310, and the projected job growth is 5% from 2019 to 2029. While a degree is not required, some experience in law enforcement is necessary.
Elevator Installers and Repairers
Elevator installers and repairers install and maintain elevators, escalators, and other related equipment. They are responsible for ensuring that elevators are safe and efficient.
The annual median salary for an elevator installer and repairer is $84,990, and the projected job growth is 7% from 2019 to 2029. While a college degree is not required, completion of an apprenticeship or a postsecondary non-degree certificate program is necessary.
Gaming Managers
Gaming managers operate casinos and other gaming establishments. They are responsible for ensuring that the operation of these establishments is legal and profitable.
The annual median salary for a gaming manager is $76,810, and the projected job growth is 1% from 2019 to 2029. While a degree is not required for this role, previous experience in gaming or hospitality is necessary.
In-Demand Jobs You Can Get Without a Degree
Data Entry Clerk
Data entry clerks input and update data into computer systems. They are responsible for ensuring that data is accurate and up to date. The annual median salary for a data entry clerk is $34,280, and the projected job growth is -6% from 2019 to 2029.
While no formal education is required, some experience or training in data entry is desirable.
Marketing Representative
Marketing representatives are responsible for promoting products or services to potential clients.
They are responsible for ensuring that marketing campaigns generate sales or leads. The annual median salary for a marketing representative is $63,790, and the projected job growth is 8% from 2019 to 2029.
While a degree is not required, previous experience in marketing or sales is necessary.
Administrative Assistant
Administrative assistants perform general office duties such as answering phones, scheduling appointments, and filing documents. They are responsible for ensuring that the office runs smoothly.
The annual median salary for an administrative assistant is $39,850, and the projected job growth is -9% from 2019 to 2029. While no formal education is required, some experience or training in office administration is desirable.
Appliance Technician
Appliance technicians troubleshoot and repair appliances such as refrigerators, washers, and dryers.
They are responsible for ensuring that appliances are in working order. The annual median salary for an appliance technician is $39,160, and the projected job growth is 4% from 2019 to 2029.
While no formal education is required, completion of an apprenticeship or a postsecondary non-degree certificate program is necessary.
Optical Lab Technician
Optical lab technicians are responsible for making and repairing eyeglasses and contact lenses. They are responsible for ensuring that eyewear is of high quality and meets customer needs.
The annual median salary for an optical lab technician is $35,530, and the projected job growth is 7% from 2019 to 2029. While no formal education is required, some experience or training in optical manufacturing is desirable.
Frequently Asked Questions about Jobs without a Degree
Are there any high-paying jobs without a degree?
Yes, many high-paying jobs do not require a degree. Wind turbine technicians and commercial pilots, for example, are jobs with high earning potential.
What are the fastest-growing industries with non-degree job opportunities?
The fastest-growing industries with non-degree job opportunities are healthcare, logistics, and renewable energy.
How can I acquire the necessary skills for jobs without a degree?
You can acquire the necessary skills for jobs without a degree by completing apprenticeships, certificates, and on-the-job training programs.
Are there any apprenticeship programs available for non-degree holders?
Yes, there are many apprenticeship programs available for non-degree holders. Elevator installers and repairers, for example, require completion of an apprenticeship program.
Can I pivot my career into a high-paying job without a degree?
Yes, you can pivot your career into a high-paying job without a degree. It may require obtaining additional training or experience, but it is possible.
Pro Tips for Success in Jobs without a Degree
- Building a strong professional network: Join professional associations and attend industry events to build a strong professional network. This will improve career prospects and lead to more job opportunities.
- Constantly upskilling: Keep up-to-date with industry trends and achieve success by constantly upskilling through online courses and certifications.
- Showcasing transferable skills and relevant experience: Showcase transferable skills and relevant experience on a resume to highlight your marketable skills and improve chances of landing a job.
- Leveraging internships and entry-level positions: Take advantage of internships and entry-level positions to gain valuable experience and pave a path to higher-paid roles.
- Stay updated with industry trends: Stay updated with industry trends and advancements. This will allow you to identify and leverage new opportunities and upskill accordingly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we have explored a range of high-paying jobs that can be achieved without a college degree.
From medical records technicians to gaming managers, there are a variety of job options available for non-degree holders. Alternative career paths such as commercial pilots and transportation managers also offer high-paying job opportunities without requiring a degree.
By constantly upskilling and building a strong professional network, anyone can succeed in these fields and unlock lucrative career paths.
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