32 Jobs Which Pay Well Without A Degree

Many people want to earn a good living without spending years in college. Fortunately, lots of no degree careers now offer strong pay. Instead of just listing titles, let me guide you through a range of fields from hands-on trades to tech-savvy roles so you can see how skills, training, or certification can open the door to solid income and bright futures.

Also read about these jobs without a degree:

• 5 High Demand Trade Careers
• 6 Quick Health Care Certifications for Beginners in the Medical Field

1. Commercial pilot

Flying planes may seem out of reach without college, but it’s not. All that’s required is a high school diploma, solid flight training, and a commercial pilot’s license. Once you’re licensed, you could earn well over six figures.

As you build flight hours and experience, you transition from small charter flights to bigger commercial jobs. It’s a technical and disciplined path, but the payoff is sky‑high.

2. Elevator and escalator installer/repairer

This is one of those rare trade jobs that combines manual skills with mechanical know-how. Most people train through trade schools or apprenticeships, then get certified. Median pay reaches about $85,000.

You learn to install, maintain, and fix these machines. Once you’re certified, demand is strong, and the pay reflects it.

3. Wind turbine technician

If you’re drawn to renewable energy, this role is growing fast. Training often includes vocational programs or apprenticeships. Median pay is just over $52,000, and demand is projected to grow dramatically.

You climb towers and keep turbines running, often in dramatic settings. It’s an adventurous job with a promising outlook.

4. Aircraft mechanic

Keeping planes safe takes real skill. You typically complete specialized technical training and licensing, sometimes through apprenticeships. Pay averages around $85,000/year.

This path mixes hands-on work with precision tech, perfect if you like solving mechanical puzzles.

5. Web developer

You don’t need a degree to learn coding. Many people use bootcamps or self‑study, then build portfolios of websites. Average salaries can reach around $78,000 or more.

You work on cool digital tools or websites, often remotely, and prove your value through what you build.

6. First-line supervisor (construction, repair, sales)

Many first-line supervisor positions fall into the category of jobs without a degree, requiring only relevant experience and on-the-job training. These roles often start with hands-on work, and as you prove your skills, you can move into leadership. Median pay ranges from $65,000 to over $90,000.

You begin as a team member, learn the ropes, and eventually take charge—building both leadership and practical skills that deliver strong financial rewards.

7. Property manager

Managing rentals means handling tenants, repairs, rent, and sometimes legal issues. Most roles require a high school diploma and often a certification, depending on the state. You can earn around $56,000/year.

It’s people-focused, requires strong communication, and can be rewarding if you enjoy variety.

8. Claims adjuster

Here, you investigate insurance claims, check damage, and decide payouts. You usually need a high school diploma and some on-the-job training. Earnings often fall between $50,000 and $70,000.

This role suits someone detail-oriented who wants a steady income without a degree.

9. Plumber or pipe welder

Skilled trades like plumbing and welding involve technical training, apprenticeships, and sometimes certifications. Median pay often ranges from $60,000 to over $70,000.

You do hands-on, skilled work and can even start your own business.

10. Detective / police supervisor

Law enforcement roles or supervisory positions in police don’t require a degree but demand training and experience. Pay can reach $90,000 or more.

It involves real responsibilities and the chance to make a difference in your community.

11. Real estate agent

Selling homes and commercial properties can be highly lucrative. You only need a high school diploma and a state real estate license, which you earn after completing a short pre-licensing course and passing an exam. While income depends on commission, many agents make $60,000 to $100,000 or more once they build a client base.

This path rewards self-motivation, networking, and local market knowledge. If you’re a people person who enjoys flexible schedules, it can be a great fit.

12. Electrician

Electricians install and repair wiring, lighting, and electrical systems in homes and businesses. You’ll need a high school diploma and complete an apprenticeship that lasts about four years, combining classroom study with paid, on-the-job training. Many states require licensing.

With experience, electricians can earn $55,000 to $90,000 annually. It’s a steady trade with high demand, and self-employment is a strong option down the road.

13. Heavy equipment operator

Operating bulldozers, cranes, and excavators requires skill and attention. Most operators train through vocational schools or apprenticeships. While licensing depends on the type of equipment, many employers also require safety certifications. Median pay is around $60,000, with experienced operators making more.

This role suits people who enjoy working outdoors and handling powerful machinery.

14. Firefighter

Firefighters respond to emergencies, fight fires, and perform rescues. You only need a high school diploma, but you must complete fire academy training and pass physical and written exams. Many firefighters earn between $50,000 and $80,000, with overtime and promotions increasing pay.

It’s physically demanding but rewarding for those committed to public safety.

15. HVAC technician

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning technicians install and maintain climate-control systems. You’ll need vocational training and, in some states, licensing or EPA certification to work with refrigerants. Average pay is around $55,000 to $75,000, and demand stays steady year-round.

This trade combines mechanical skill with problem-solving.

16. Computer support specialist

These tech pros help individuals and companies solve computer problems. A high school diploma plus technical training or certifications (like CompTIA A+) can get you started. Pay often ranges from $52,000 to $70,000, depending on experience.

It’s a good fit for people who are patient, tech-savvy, and enjoy helping others.

17. Boilermaker

Boilermakers assemble and repair boilers, tanks, and other large metal containers. Training comes through apprenticeships, and you may need welding certifications. Pay averages $65,000 to $80,000, with opportunities for overtime.

It’s a physically demanding job that rewards strength and precision.

18. Postal service worker

Postal employees sort and deliver mail for the USPS. A high school diploma and passing a postal exam are required. Full-time positions can pay between $52,000 and $70,000 with benefits.

This role offers stability and consistent hours for those who like structured work.

19. Power plant operator

These operators control systems that generate and distribute electricity. You’ll need a high school diploma and extensive on-the-job training, plus passing background checks and possibly licensing exams. Pay averages $80,000.

It’s a detail-oriented role with high responsibility and strong earning potential.

20. Sheet metal worker

Working with thin metal sheets to make ducts, roofs, and siding, this trade usually starts with an apprenticeship. You may also need OSHA safety training. Pay ranges from $55,000 to $75,000, depending on experience and specialty.

It’s a hands-on career that combines craftsmanship with construction skills.

21. Transportation inspector

Inspectors ensure trains, buses, and other transportation meet safety rules. You only need a high school diploma plus training specific to the transportation type. Median pay is around $75,000.

This role is ideal for detail-oriented people who like structured guidelines.

22. Court reporter

Court reporters transcribe trials, depositions, and other legal proceedings. You’ll need a certificate program in court reporting and state licensing in many areas. Median pay is about $60,000, but real-time captioning specialists can earn more.

It’s a skill-based job that rewards accuracy and focus.

23. Locomotive engineer

Locomotive engineers hold one of the well-paying no degree careers, driving freight and passenger trains while ensuring they run safely and on schedule. This job requires a high school diploma, railroad company training, and passing skills tests and background checks. Median pay is about $70,000, with some earning more through overtime.

It’s an excellent choice for those who enjoy precision, routine, and working with large machinery.

24. Dental hygienist

Dental hygienists clean teeth, take x-rays, and teach patients about oral care. You’ll need an associate’s degree from an accredited program and state licensing, but not a bachelor’s degree. Median pay is around $77,000.

This career blends healthcare skills with daily patient interaction.

25. Police officer

Police officers enforce laws, respond to emergencies, and protect communities. Requirements usually include a high school diploma, police academy training, and passing physical and background tests. Pay averages $55,000 to $80,000, with strong benefits.

It’s a challenging but rewarding path for those committed to public service.

26. Construction manager

Some construction managers work their way up from trades without formal degrees. You’ll need years of experience, leadership skills, and often certifications like OSHA or PMP. Many earn $90,000 or more.

This position combines planning, budgeting, and team leadership.

27. Radiation protection technician

These specialists measure and control radiation levels to keep workplaces safe, often in healthcare or energy industries. Most start with a high school diploma plus technical training and certifications. Pay ranges from $60,000 to $80,000.

It’s a specialized role with steady demand.

28. Truck driver

Truck drivers transport goods across cities, states, and sometimes the entire country. You’ll need a high school diploma and a commercial driver’s license (CDL), which you can earn through a short training program. Pay varies based on the type of driving, but many long-haul drivers make between $55,000 and $80,000, with potential for bonuses.

It’s a great career in transportation and logistics for those who enjoy travel, independence, and steady demand for their skills.

29. Crane operator

Crane operators lift and move heavy materials at construction sites or shipping ports. You’ll need specialized training and certification, often through unions or vocational programs. Median pay is around $65,000.

It’s ideal for those who want a skilled trade with responsibility.

30. Gaming manager

A gaming manager is one of the higher-paying jobs without a degree, responsible for overseeing casino operations, ensuring compliance with regulations, and managing staff. The role requires a high school diploma, experience in the gaming industry, and a state gaming license. Median pay is about $75,000.

It’s a career that blends customer service with the responsibility of maintaining a fair and legal gaming environment.

31. Elevator inspector

Elevator inspectors check lifts and escalators for safety compliance. You’ll need a high school diploma, technical training, and often a state license. Pay averages $80,000.

It’s a detail-focused job that keeps transportation systems safe.

32. Wind energy project manager

Wind energy project managers oversee the building and operation of wind farms. Many work up from technician roles, gaining experience and project management training. Pay often exceeds $90,000.

This role is perfect for those interested in renewable energy leadership.

Your next step toward a high-paying career

These jobs without a degree show you can find meaningful work, solid pay, and growth without going to college. From flying planes to coding websites, you have choices. Each one may require different training, licensing, or experience, but all prove that you can build a worthwhile career based on skill and drive, not just degrees.