In today's competitive job market, many individuals are seeking opportunities that do not require a college degree. Fortunately, there are numerous high-paying and fulfilling career paths that do not necessitate a four-year degree. From skilled trades and technical professions to creative and entrepreneurial endeavors, there are countless options for individuals to pursue a successful and rewarding career without the burden of student loan debt. In this guide, we will explore some of the best jobs that do not require a college degree, and the potential pathways to success in these fields.
#1 in Best Jobs Without A College Degree
A Hearing Aid Specialist is a healthcare professional who specializes in the fitting and maintenance of hearing aids for individuals with hearing loss. These specialists work with patients to assess their hearing needs, recommend appropriate hearing aid devices, and provide ongoing support and care to ensure the devices are functioning optimally.
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Projected Jobs
1,500
Median Salary
$59,020
Education Needed
High school diploma or equivalent
#2 in Best Jobs Without A College Degree
Community Health Workers (CHWs) are frontline public health workers who are responsible for improving access to healthcare and health education in underserved communities. They are typically members of the community they serve and have a deep understanding of the cultural, social, and economic factors that influence the health of their community.
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Projected Jobs
9,400
Median Salary
$46,190
Education Needed
High school diploma or equivalent
#3 in Best Jobs Without A College Degree
An electrician is a skilled tradesperson who specializes in installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems and wiring in buildings, homes, and other structures. Electricians are responsible for ensuring that electrical systems are installed and functioning safely and efficiently, and they play a crucial role in the construction and maintenance of residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.
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Projected Jobs
49,200
Median Salary
$60,240
Education Needed
High school diploma or equivalent
#4 in Best Jobs Without A College Degree
A wind turbine technician is a skilled professional responsible for the maintenance, repair, and installation of wind turbines. These technicians play a crucial role in ensuring the efficient and safe operation of wind energy systems, which are an increasingly important source of renewable energy.
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Projected Jobs
5,000
Median Salary
$57,320
Education Needed
Postsecondary nondegree award
#5 in Best Jobs Without A College Degree
A flight attendant is a member of the cabin crew responsible for ensuring the safety and comfort of passengers on an aircraft. They are trained professionals who work for airlines and are responsible for providing customer service, safety demonstrations, and ensuring that passengers comply with aviation regulations.
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Projected Jobs
12,600
Median Salary
$63,760
Education Needed
High school diploma or equivalent
#6 in Best Jobs Without A College Degree
A massage therapist is a professional who specializes in the manipulation of soft tissues in the body to promote relaxation, improve circulation, and relieve muscle tension and pain. Massage therapy is a holistic approach to wellness and can be used to address a wide range of physical and emotional issues.
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Projected Jobs
24,600
Median Salary
$49,860
Education Needed
Postsecondary nondegree award
#7 in Best Jobs Without A College Degree
A pharmacy technician is a healthcare professional who works under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist to assist in the preparation and dispensing of medications. They play a crucial role in ensuring that patients receive the correct medications in the right dosage and form.
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Projected Jobs
25,900
Median Salary
$37,790
Education Needed
High school diploma or equivalent
#8 in Best Jobs Without A College Degree
A maintenance and repair worker is a skilled professional who is responsible for the upkeep and repair of buildings, machinery, and mechanical equipment. These individuals play a crucial role in ensuring that facilities and equipment are in proper working condition and are safe for use. They work in a variety of settings, including commercial, industrial, and residential properties.
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Projected Jobs
57,200
Median Salary
$44,980
Education Needed
High school diploma or equivalent
#9 in Best Jobs Without A College Degree
A choreographer is a professional who is responsible for creating, designing, and directing dance routines and movements for performances, shows, and events. They work closely with dancers, directors, and other members of the production team to conceptualize and execute the choreography for a wide range of artistic and entertainment projects.
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Projected Jobs
300
Median Salary
$50,990
Education Needed
High school diploma or equivalent
#10 in Best Jobs Without A College Degree
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) are healthcare professionals who provide basic nursing care under the supervision of registered nurses and physicians. LPNs and LVNs work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics, and home healthcare.
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Projected Jobs
34,900
Median Salary
$54,620
Education Needed
Postsecondary nondegree award
#11 in Best Jobs Without A College Degree
A solar photovoltaic installer is a professional responsible for the installation and maintenance of solar panel systems. These individuals are skilled in working with electrical systems and have a strong understanding of solar technology and equipment.
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Projected Jobs
6,600
Median Salary
$45,230
Education Needed
High school diploma or equivalent
#12 in Best Jobs Without A College Degree
A Medical Records Technician, also known as a Health Information Technician, is a crucial member of the healthcare team responsible for managing and organizing patient healthcare data. These professionals are tasked with ensuring that patient records are accurate, complete, and protected in accordance with healthcare laws and regulations.
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Projected Jobs
16,500
Median Salary
$47,180
Education Needed
Postsecondary nondegree award
#13 in Best Jobs Without A College Degree
An Ophthalmic Medical Technician (OMT) is a specialized healthcare professional who works alongside ophthalmologists and optometrists to provide patient care in a clinical setting. OMTs are responsible for conducting a variety of diagnostic tests and procedures to assist in the evaluation and treatment of eye conditions and diseases.
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Projected Jobs
8,400
Median Salary
$38,860
Education Needed
Postsecondary nondegree award
#14 in Best Jobs Without A College Degree
A plumber is a skilled tradesperson who specializes in installing and maintaining systems used for water, drainage, sewage, and gas in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. They are responsible for ensuring that these systems are functioning properly and are essential for the health, safety, and comfort of the people who use the buildings.
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Projected Jobs
10,900
Median Salary
$60,090
Education Needed
High school diploma or equivalent
#15 in Best Jobs Without A College Degree
A delivery truck driver is a professional responsible for transporting goods from one location to another using a delivery truck. These drivers play a crucial role in ensuring that products and packages are delivered to their intended destinations in a timely and efficient manner.
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Projected Jobs
133,800
Median Salary
$40,410
Education Needed
High school diploma or equivalent
#16 in Best Jobs Without A College Degree
An optician is a healthcare professional who specializes in the design, fitting, and dispensing of eyeglasses, contact lenses, and other optical aids. They are trained to interpret prescriptions written by optometrists or ophthalmologists and to help patients select the appropriate eyewear to meet their visual needs.
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Projected Jobs
2,000
Median Salary
$39,610
Education Needed
High school diploma or equivalent
#17 in Best Jobs Without A College Degree
An auto mechanic, also known as an automotive technician, is a skilled professional who is responsible for inspecting, maintaining, and repairing vehicles. Auto mechanics work on a variety of vehicles including cars, trucks, and motorcycles and are trained to work on all the different systems within a vehicle such as the engine, transmission, brakes, and electrical systems.
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Projected Jobs
12,800
Median Salary
$46,970
Education Needed
Postsecondary nondegree award
#18 in Best Jobs Without A College Degree
A construction worker is a skilled laborer who is involved in the physical construction of buildings, roads, bridges, and other structures. They are an integral part of the construction industry and play a crucial role in bringing architectural designs to life. Construction workers are typically involved in various aspects of the construction process, including demolition, excavation, framing, roofing, masonry, and finishing work.
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Projected Jobs
61,900
Median Salary
$40,750
Education Needed
No formal educational credential
#19 in Best Jobs Without A College Degree
Taxi Driver is a 1976 American film directed by Martin Scorsese and written by Paul Schrader. The film stars Robert De Niro as Travis Bickle, a mentally unstable Vietnam War veteran who works as a night shift taxi driver in New York City. The film explores themes of alienation, urban decay, and the psychological effects of violence and loneliness.
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Projected Jobs
36,400
Median Salary
$30,670
Education Needed
No formal educational credential
#20 in Best Jobs Without A College Degree
A teacher assistant, also known as a teacher's aide, is a professional who works alongside a lead teacher in a classroom setting to provide support and assistance to students and the teacher. Teacher assistants play a crucial role in helping to create a positive and productive learning environment for students and are often responsible for a wide range of tasks that help to facilitate the smooth operation of the classroom.
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Projected Jobs
900
Median Salary
$30,920
Education Needed
Some college, no