What jobs pay the most without a college degree?
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Do you feel like you’re stuck in a rut? Like you can’t seem to get ahead no matter how hard you try? You’re not alone. Millions of people are in the same boat. But don’t worry, there is hope. There are plenty of high-paying jobs out there that don’t require a degree. So if you’re feeling frustrated and discouraged, don’t give up. Check out this list of 25 high-paying jobs without a degree and see if one of them might be right for you. Who knows, it might just be the change you need to get your life back on track!
25) Gas Operators – $63,770 per year
Education: High School Diploma
Expected Growth: Decline
Median Hourly Wage: $32.27
Gas compressors and gas pumping station operators are responsible for the safe and efficient operation of equipment used to compress and pump natural gas. They work in a variety of settings, including oil and gas production facilities, pipelines, and power plants. Most gas compressors are located at natural gas processing plants, where they pressurize the gas to move it through pipelines. Gas pumps are used to move the compressed gas through the pipelines. Pumping stations are usually located at points along the pipeline where there is a change in direction or elevation. Operators must be able to monitor gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure that a machine is working properly. They also use a variety of tools to complete day-to-day tasks.
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24) Construction Supervisors – $67,840 per year
Education: High School Diploma
Expected Growth: High
Median Hourly Wage: $36.09
Construction supervisors are responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of construction projects. This includes ensuring that workers are properly trained, safety procedures are being followed, and work is proceeding on schedule. Construction supervisors also typically oversee the ordering of materials and equipment, and they may be responsible for tracking project costs. In some cases, construction supervisors may also be involved in the actual construction work, such as performing quality control inspections or operating heavy equipment. First-line supervisors of construction trades and extraction workers must have a strong working knowledge of safety regulations, as well as construction methods and techniques. They must also be able to effectively communicate with workers, subcontractors, and clients.
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23) Agricultural Managers – $68,090 per year
Education: High School Diploma
Expected Growth: Decline
Median Hourly Wage: $32.73
Agricultural managers are responsible for the day-to-day operations of a farm or agricultural facility. In this role, they may oversee the planting, harvesting, and marketing of crops; the care and breeding of livestock; and the maintenance of farmland. Agricultural managers must also be adept at financial planning and record keeping in order to ensure that their operation is profitable. In some cases, agricultural managers may also be responsible for environmental compliance or agricultural research. With such a wide range of duties, agricultural managers must be well-versed in all aspects of crop and animal husbandry. They must also possess strong leadership and decision-making skills in order to effectively manage their staff and resources.
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22) Claims Adjusters, Examiners, and Investigators – $68,130 per year
Education: High School Diploma
Expected Growth: Decline
Median Hourly Wage: $32.76
Claims Adjusters, Examiners, and Investigators are responsible for evaluating insurance claims. They investigate claims to determine whether they are valid, and if so, how much the insurance company should pay. Claims Adjusters may work for insurance companies or self-insured organizations. Claims Examiners review submitted claims to determine whether they meet the required criteria for payment. Claims Investigators conduct interviews and gather evidence to determine whether a claim is fraudulent.
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21) Subway and Streetcar Operators – $71,520 per year
Education: High School Diploma
Expected Growth: Moderate
Median Hourly Wage: $34.38
Subway and streetcar operators are responsible for operating vehicles that transport passengers along tracks. Subway operators must be familiar with the route they are traveling and be able to make stops at stations accurately. They must also be able to open and close doors, announce stops and collect fares. Streetcar operators have similar responsibilities, but they may also be responsible for making sure that the streetcar stays on schedule. In addition to operating the vehicle, subway and streetcar operators must also be familiar with safety procedures in case of an emergency. They may need to evacuate passengers in the event of a fire or other incident. Subway and streetcar operators play an important role in keeping public transportation running smoothly.
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20) Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers Supervisors – $73,590 per year
Education: High School Diploma
Expected Growth: High
Median Hourly Wage: $35.38
First-line supervisors of mechanics, installers, and repairers are responsible for coordinating the work of technicians and repairers who maintain and repair machinery, equipment, and systems. They typically work in factories, power plants, automotive shops, and other industrial or commercial environments. The specific duties of first-line supervisors vary depending on the type of organization they work for, but they generally oversee the work of other technicians, assign tasks, keep track of deadlines, and ensure that safety protocols are followed. In some cases, they may also perform hands-on repairs themselves. First-line supervisors often need to have several years of experience working as a technician before being promoted to a management position. Good communication and interpersonal skills are also important in this role.
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19) Media Communication/Lighting Technicians – $50,000 per year
Education: High School Diploma
Expected Growth: Moderate
Median Hourly Wage: $24.04
Lighting technicians and media and communication equipment workers set up and operate the lighting and audio-visual equipment used in live events, movies, television shows, and other productions. They are responsible for ensuring that the lighting is effective and creates the desired mood or atmosphere. They may also be responsible for operating audio-visual equipment to record or live-stream events. In addition, lighting technicians and media and communication equipment workers frequently work with other members of a production team to ensure that all of the equipment is properly set up and functioning before a show begins. They may also be responsible for striking (taking down) the set after production has ended. As such, they play an important role in ensuring that productions run smoothly and look their best.
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18) Locomotive Engineers – $64,210 per year
Education: High School Diploma
Expected Growth: Moderate
Median Hourly Wage: $30.87
Locomotive engineers are responsible for operating and maintaining locomotives, which are large, powerful machines used for pulling trains. They must adhere to strict safety regulations while operating their engines, and they must be able to troubleshoot problems that may arise. locomotive engineers typically work on freight trains, although some may work on passenger trains. In addition to operating the locomotive, they may be responsible for inspecting the engine and keeping it fueled. They also play a key role in ensuring that the train arrives on time and does not exceed the speed limit. Locomotive engineers are highly skilled professionals who play a vital role in keeping trains running safely and on schedule.
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17) Transit and Railroad Police – $67,290 per year
Education: High School Diploma
Expected Growth: Minimum
Median Hourly Wage: $32.35
Transit and railroad police are sworn law enforcement officers who have the authority to enforce laws and ordinances, make arrests, and carry firearms. They are responsible for the safety and security of passengers, employees, and facilities of transit agencies and railways. Transit and railroad police officers patrol stations, platforms, trains, buses, and other areas. They also investigate crimes that have been committed on transit property. In addition, they work to prevent crime by providing visible patrols and conducting security checks. Transit and railroad police officers must be able to deal with difficult people and situations. They must be able to communicate effectively with people of all backgrounds. They must also have good problem-solving skills.
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16) Gas Plant Operators – $76,970 per year
Education: High School Diploma
Expected Growth: Decline
Median Hourly Wage: $37.01
Gas plant operators work in facilities that process and distribute natural gas. They are responsible for monitoring the equipment and making sure that it is running smoothly. In addition, they may be responsible for testing the quality of the gas and repairing any equipment that is not working properly. Gas plant operators must have a strong understanding of the machinery and processes involved in gas production, as well as safety procedures. They typically work with a team of other operators and technicians to ensure that the facility is running smoothly.
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15) Electrical Power-line Installers and Repairers – $68,030 per year
Education: High School Diploma
Expected Growth: Moderate
Median Hourly Wage: $32.71
Electrical power-line installers and repairers work on a variety of electrical equipment, including transmission lines, telephone poles, and traffic signals. They are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing this equipment. In order to do their job effectively, they must be able to read blueprints and follow safety regulations. Electrical power-line installers and repairers typically receive training through an apprenticeship program. Once they have completed their training, they are often required to obtain a license from the state in which they work. Electrical power-line installers and repairers typically work full time and may be required to work overtime, particularly during emergency situations.
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14) Gambling Managers – $89,190 per year
Education: High School Diploma
Expected Growth: Minimum
Median Hourly Wage: $42.88
There are many different types of gambling managers, but the one thing they all have in common is the ability to oversee the operations of a gambling establishment. This can include everything from managing the finances to hiring and training staff. Gambling managers must also be able to develop and implement marketing plans that will attract customers and keep them coming back. In addition, they must be able to deal with problem gamblers in a tactful and sensitive manner. As you can see, gambling managers have a lot on their plate. But for those who are up for the challenge, it can be a very rewarding career.
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13) Signal and Track Switch Repairers – $74,220 per year
Education: High School Diploma
Expected Growth: Minimum
Median Hourly Wage: $35.68
Signal and track switch repairers install, maintain, and repair the equipment that controls the movement of trains. They use a variety of tools to test signals, inspect tracks, and make repairs. Most signal and track switch repairers work for railroads, but some work for transit systems. The work can be physically demanding, and repairers often work outdoors in all kinds of weather. Although most repairers work full time, some jobs are part-time or seasonal.
Signal and track switch repairers typically need at least a high school diploma. Many employers provide on-the-job training to new workers, which can last up to 1 year. Some jobs may require completion of an apprenticeship lasting 3 or 4 years
12) Postmasters and Mail Superintendents – $81,820 per year
Education: High School Diploma
Expected Growth: Decline
Median Hourly Wage: $39.34
Postmasters and mail superintendents play an important role in ensuring that the mail is delivered efficiently and effectively. They are responsible for managing postal facilities and supervising postal workers. In addition, they must ensure that the mail is sorted correctly and that all packages are properly addressed. They also work with other postal employees to plan and implement new postal services and regulations. Postmasters and mail superintendents must be able to handle a large volume of mail and be able to make quick decisions in order to maintain the efficient operation of the postal service.
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11) Transportation Inspectors – $77,620 per year
Education: High School Diploma
Expected Growth: Moderate
Median Hourly Wage: $37.32
Transportation inspectors are responsible for ensuring that all modes of transportation are safe. This includes everything from airplanes and trains to buses and boats. inspectors must have a thorough knowledge of the regulations governing their mode of transportation, as well as an understanding of how the various systems work. In addition, they must be able to identify safety hazards and take appropriate action to correct them. Transportation inspectors typically work for the government, although some may be employed by private companies. They typically work regular hours but may be required to work overtime or on call in order to respond to emergencies.
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10) Sales Supervisors – $92,320 per year
Education: High School Diploma
Expected Growth: Decline
Median Hourly Wage: $44.38
First-line supervisors of non-retail sales workers are responsible for overseeing the work of subordinates and ensuring that they meet performance goals. They may also be responsible for training new employees and providing feedback to employees on their performance. In some cases, first-line supervisors of non-retail sales workers may also be responsible for managing a team of sales representatives. In addition to supervising subordinates, first-line supervisors of non-retail sales workers may also be responsible for developing sales strategies and budgets, as well as generating sales reports.
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9) Petroleum System Operators, Refinery Operators, and Gaugers – $80,500 per year
Education: High School Diploma
Expected Growth: Moderate
Median Hourly Wage: $38.70
Petroleum pump system operators, refinery operators, and gaugers are responsible for the safe and efficient operations of the equipment used to process and transport crude oil and refined products. They must ensure that all safety procedures are followed and that the equipment is operating correctly. Pump system operators typically work in oil fields or refineries. They use pumps to move crude oil or refined products through pipelines. Refinery operators work in oil refineries. They control the process of refining crude oil into fuel products such as gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. Gaugers measure the level of petroleum products in storage tanks. They use meters to determine how much product is in a tank and then calculate the volume of product in the tank.
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8) Power Plant Operators – $89,090 per year
Education: High School Diploma
Expected Growth: Decline
Median Hourly Wage: $42.83
Power plant operators are responsible for controlling the systems that generate and distribute electricity. They monitor the equipment in power plants and make adjustments to ensure that the plant is operating safely and efficiently. In some cases, they may need to start or stop equipment in response to changes in demand. Power plant operators typically work in central control rooms and use computers and other technology to monitor the systems. They may also need to physically inspect the equipment on a regular basis. Power plant operators must have a strong understanding of the equipment and be able to troubleshoot problems quickly. They also need to be able to communicate effectively with other members of the power plant team.
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7) Detectives and Criminal Investigators – $67,290 per year
Education: High School Diploma
Expected Growth: Moderate
Median Hourly Wage: $32.35
Detectives and criminal investigators are law enforcement professionals who collect evidence and gather information to solve crimes. They typically work for police departments, though some may work for federal agencies or private companies. In most cases, detectives and criminal investigators conduct interviews, examine records, and observe the activities of suspects in order to develop leads and gather information. They also often collaborate with other law enforcement professionals, such as Forensic Scientists, to analyze evidence and identify suspects. In addition, detectives and criminal investigators often testify in court to present their findings. As such, they must be able to clearly communicate their evidence and articulate their investigation methods in a way that is understandable to non-experts.
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6) Elevator and Escalator Installers and Repairers – $88,540 per year
Education: High School Diploma
Expected Growth: Moderate
Median Hourly Wage: $42.57
Elevator and escalator installers and repairers are responsible for the maintenance and repair of these important pieces of equipment. In addition to ensuring that elevators and escalators are in good working order, they also regularly inspect them for safety hazards. When an elevator or escalator requires repairs, these workers use a variety of tools to make the necessary repairs. In some cases, they may need to disassemble the equipment in order to reach the source of the problem. Elevator and escalator installers and repairers typically work full-time hours and may be required to work evenings or weekends in order to respond to emergencies. Some workers are employed by companies that maintain large buildings, while others work for independent contractors.
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5) Police and Detectives Supervisors – $98,760 per year
Education: High School Diploma
Expected Growth: Moderate
Median Hourly Wage: $47.48
First-line supervisors of police and detectives typically have a great deal of responsibility. They are responsible for the day-to-day operations of their unit and must ensure that their subordinates are properly trained and equipped. In addition, they must maintain good relationships with other units in the department and with the community at large. First-line supervisors often have a great deal of experience in law enforcement and are highly respected by their subordinates. They typically have a wide range of responsibilities, from responding to calls for service to investigating crimes. In addition, they may also be responsible for training new officers and supervising special units within the department.
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4) Commercial Pilots – $130,440 per year
Education: High School Diploma
Expected Growth: Moderate
Median Hourly Wage: N/A
A commercial pilot flies an airplane or helicopter for transport or tourism. Most commercial pilots have a college degree and extensive flight experience. In addition to their flying duties, commercial pilots may also be responsible for performing maintenance checks, keeping flight logs, and preparing flight plans. They may also be required to transport cargo or give tours of the area to passengers. Commercial pilots typically work for airlines, charter companies, or private corporations. Some commercial pilots may also be self-employed. The hours and working conditions of commercial pilots vary depending on their employer and the type of aircraft they fly. However, they often work long hours and spend days or weeks away from home. Commercial pilots must be able to handle stress and maintain a high level of concentration while flying.
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3) Power Distributors and Dispatchers – $89,090 per year
Education: High School Diploma
Expected Growth: Decline
Median Hourly Wage: $42.83
Power distributors and dispatchers play a critical role in the operation of the electric grid. They are responsible for ensuring that electricity is delivered safely and efficiently to homes and businesses. Distributors work with power plants to purchase electricity, and then they distribute it to customers through the transmission system. Dispatchers oversee the operation of the grid, making sure that electricity is being used efficiently and that there is enough capacity to meet demand. They also coordinate the efforts of crews working on maintenance and repair tasks. In short, power distributors and dispatchers play a vital role in keeping the lights on for millions of people across the country.
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2) Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers – $105,580 per year
Education: High School Diploma
Expected Growth: High
Median Hourly Wage: $50.76
Transportation, storage, and distribution managers are responsible for the movement of goods throughout an organization. They typically oversee a team of workers who handle the loading and unloading of goods, as well as the operation of transportation equipment. In larger organizations, these managers may also be responsible for planning and coordinating the routes that goods will take to their destination. In addition, they may negotiate contracts with suppliers and customers, and track inventory levels to ensure that goods are available when needed. With experience, transportation, storage, and distribution managers can move into upper-level management positions within their organization.
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1) Nuclear Power Reactor Operators – $89,090 per year
Education: High School Diploma
Expected Growth: Decline
Median Hourly Wage: $42.83
Nuclear power reactor operators are responsible for the safe and efficient operation of nuclear reactors. They work closely with other members of the reactor staff to ensure that all safety procedures are followed and that the reactor is operating properly. Nuclear power reactor operators must have a thorough understanding of the reactor’s systems and be able to identify and correct any problems that may arise. In the event of an emergency, they will be responsible for shutting down the reactor safely. Nuclear power reactor operators typically receive extensive training before being allowed to operate a reactor.
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Closing Thoughts
If you’re looking for a high-paying job but don’t want to go to college or get a degree, you’re in luck. There are plenty of great jobs out there that don’t require any formal education. Some of these jobs may require on-the-job training or specific certifications. So if you’re wondering how to make money without a degree, look no further – we’ve got you covered. Have you found a high-paying job that doesn’t require a college degree that appeals to you? Let us know in the comments!
All data for this list has been pulled from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
