Whether you’re a recent graduate or interested in making a career change, high-paying jobs exist that don’t require a college degree. From medical careers to technology positions, these entry-level jobs pay well and offer a clear path to future advancements.
Some of the highest-paying jobs include hazardous waste managers earning over $61K per year and sales representatives with competitive salaries. For more information, check out companies such as Current.
Airline Staff
If spending years in school to earn a degree sounds like a bad idea, there are plenty of other options for earning a decent salary. Using data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, we have compiled a list of high-paying jobs that do not require a bachelor’s degree.
Airline staff, or line personnel, comprise 85 percent of an airline’s workforce. This includes flight attendants, reservation clerks, airport check-in, and gate personnel. Other airline employees include operations people, who maintain guidelines to meet FAA standards and train flight crews. Lastly, the chief purser manages a specific plane section or the entire aircraft if the airline is large enough.
Getting into this field requires customer service skills and training in passenger safety, including emergency evacuation management, use of life rafts and evacuation slides, first aid, and defibrillation. It also helps to speak multiple languages, particularly if the airline serves international destinations.
Elevator Installer
Elevator installers construct, modernize, and repair elevators, escalators, wheelchair lifts, moving walkways, and other conveyance equipment that provides vertical transportation. They also adjust safety controls, counterweights, and door mechanisms. They test newly installed equipment to ensure specifications are met and that the elevator meets all building codes and safety regulations.
They use hand and power tools to assemble, install, and service equipment. They also connect electrical wiring to control panels and electric motors, and they read blueprints to determine the layout of systems components, frameworks, and foundations. They also locate malfunctions in brakes, motors, switches, and signal and control systems using testing equipment.
Elevator mechanics usually work for building equipment contractors and often need to perform service repairs in cramped crawl spaces or elevator machine rooms. They also may need to be on call 24 hours a day. The minimum requirement for this career is a high school diploma or GED certificate. Classes in math, mechanical drawing, and shop are helpful.
Farm Labor Contractor
A popular bumper sticker says, “No farms, no food.” Modern farming is indeed only possible with the hard work of farm labor contractors. These people recruit, supply, transport, house, and pay laborers to farmers for the growing of food. Anyone who charges a fee for these services must register in New York state as a farm labor contractor.
These entry-level positions have manageable on-the-job training requirements and faster-than-average job growth potential. Whether it’s in logistics, manufacturing, or agriculture, these jobs offer good salaries with the chance to learn more about your future career paths.
If you want to get into one of these jobs, watch local job boards and professional networking platforms for openings. These entry-level positions are a great way to gain experience and build a strong resume. Plus, they often have competitive salaries that beat those of people with a four-year degree. For more lucrative entry-level jobs, check out our list of the best-paying jobs that don’t require a college degree.
Commercial Pilot
Commercial pilots operate aircraft for passenger transportation, cargo delivery, aerial surveying, and other aviation services. They can work for airlines, charter companies, or private flight services. Pilots are responsible for ensuring that flights adhere to strict safety protocols and provide a comfortable travel experience for passengers.
They must have excellent decision-making and problem-solving skills to navigate complex routes and handle challenging weather conditions. They also perform pre-flight inspections and review flight plans and routes before each journey. Pilots must remain up-to-date on airline procedures and technology and undergo regular training to keep their certifications current.
Getting started in this high-paying job requires extensive flight training, which can be expensive. But, finding the right training program can make the financial investment worthwhile. To find the best options, look for programs endorsed by an airline or approved by your national aviation authority. Choosing the right type of aircraft to learn on can also help you build your hours more quickly and efficiently.
