High-Paying Jobs Without A Degree

Just because you didn’t get a bachelor’s degree doesn’t mean you can’t make good money. There are plenty of well-paying jobs that don’t demand a college diploma; instead, they value skills, experience, and knowledge gained elsewhere. Explore our list of top-earning jobs that don’t require a degree—they offer great earning opportunities. Find out which no-degree-needed job might be just what you’re looking for!

1. Air Traffic Controller

Average salary: $130,000
Qualification: Associate Degree

Air traffic controllers have the thrilling and high-pressure task of guiding air traffic from the ground. You know those towers with tons of windows you see at airports? That’s where they work. To keep up with travel schedules, air traffic controllers often work nights and weekends. It’s a demanding job, but the payoff is rewarding—ensuring that people take off, travel, and land safely!

2. Nuclear Technician

Average salary: $90,000
Qualification: Associate Degree

Nuclear technicians operate within nuclear power plants, using computers and other tools to monitor and manage nuclear reactors. They collaborate closely with scientists and engineers. While the job pays well, it’s important to note that it’s on the decline, which could affect job security in the future.

3. Elevator Installer and Repairer

Average salary: $87,000
Qualification:  High school diploma

Here’s one of those jobs that people don’t think about much! Elevator installers and repairers actually earn a decent income by using their hands. It’s not uncommon for them to work in tight spaces with heavy machinery. They might need to be on call 24/7 for repairs. But, if heights make you nervous, this job might not be your best pick!

4. Web Developer

Average salary: $78,000
Qualification: Associate Degree

Web developers bring together a special mix of technical and creative skills to create and design websites. It’s a job in high demand, available in various agencies or businesses. If you’re up for it, you can also go solo as a freelancer, building strong connections along the way. Plus, the pay is pretty awesome!

5. Dental Hygienist

Average salary: $76,000
Qualification: Associate Degree

Cleaning teeth might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but dental hygienists have a chance to make a real difference in their patient’s lives by taking care of their oral health. They do various tasks like screening patients, taking x-rays, getting rid of plaque from teeth, and advising patients on good hygiene and nutrition habits. It typically takes about three years to finish the required programs, and passing the National Board Dental Hygiene Exam is a must to start practicing.

6. Diagnostic Medical Sonographers

Average salary: $75,000
Qualification: Associate Degree

Sonographers use medical tools to capture images of organs, tissues, and blood vessels, giving people a glimpse into what’s happening inside their bodies. Cardiovascular techs team up with doctors to carry out intricate procedures concerning heart health, like putting in stents or pacemakers. They also assist in conducting tests to identify cardiac health issues in patients.

These professions are seeing more growth than usual, so if you choose this path, you’re likely to find plenty of job opportunities!

7. Aerospace Technician

Average salary: $73,000
Qualification: Associate Degree

If you’ve always been intrigued by planes and love hands-on technical work, you might want to think about becoming an aerospace technician. In this role, you’ll be dealing with aircraft or spacecraft, testing and fine-tuning systems, and handling the installation and repair of different parts.

8. Detectives

Average salary: $66,000
Qualification: Associate Degree

Working in law enforcement is a challenging, thrilling, and fulfilling career. It’s clear-cut: safeguard the community, apprehend the wrongdoers, and crack the case. While many roles only need a high school diploma, some prefer candidates with an associate’s or bachelor’s degree, so going back to college could be a valuable investment.

9. Executive Assistant

Average salary: $63,000
Qualification: High School Diploma

Executive assistants support leaders in businesses or nonprofits. They handle the executive’s schedule, communicate on their behalf, and handle various office tasks to keep the organization running smoothly. They’re the behind-the-scenes support for the most influential individuals in any organization.

10. Sales Representatives

Average salary: $62,000
Qualification: Diploma in the respective field

Sales representatives have opportunities in various products and industries. While many positions are open to those with a high school diploma, if you aim for a role in a more technical field, such as medical instruments, a bachelor’s degree might be necessary.

11. Radiologic and MRI Technologists

Average salary: $61,500
Qualification: Associate Degree

X-rays and MRIs are tools doctors use to figure out what’s happening inside the body. Technicians are the ones who operate these tests, collaborating with doctors to gather the necessary information for the diagnosis and treatment of patients.

12. Electrician

Average salary: $59,000
Qualification: High School Diploma

If the idea of working with wires lights up your enthusiasm (pardon the dad joke), you might want to think about becoming an electrician. You can either go to a technical school or pursue an apprenticeship for hands-on training. Electricians are the ones who bring power to buildings, homes, transmission lines, and all sorts of equipment.

13. Plumber

Average salary: $56,000
Qualification: High School Diploma

Plumbers set up and fix piping systems in homes, factories, and businesses. Since plumbers often deal with urgent calls (like a burst toilet – yikes!), they may need to work on some nights and weekends.

14. Real Estate Agent

Average salary: $50,000
Qualification: High School Diploma