In today's competitive job market, many people are seeking high-paying career opportunities that don't require a traditional four-year degree. Fortunately, there are several lucrative options available for individuals who are willing to pursue alternative education or training paths. From skilled trades and technical positions to sales and management roles, there are numerous opportunities to earn a substantial income without a college degree. In this article, we will explore some of the highest paying jobs that do not require a degree, providing valuable insight for those looking to maximize their earning potential in the workforce.
#1 in Highest Paying Jobs Without A Degree
An executive assistant is a professional who provides administrative support and assistance to high-level executives within an organization. They are tasked with managing the day-to-day operations of the executive's office, including scheduling meetings, coordinating travel arrangements, and handling correspondence. Additionally, executive assistants may be responsible for preparing reports, conducting research, and managing projects on behalf of the executive.
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Projected Jobs
-108,100
Median Salary
$65,980
Education Needed
High school diploma or equivalent
#2 in Highest Paying Jobs Without A Degree
A patrol officer is a law enforcement professional responsible for maintaining public safety and order within a specific jurisdiction. These officers are typically the most visible and active members of a police force, as they are often the first responders to emergency calls and the primary enforcers of traffic and criminal laws. Patrol officers are tasked with conducting regular patrols of their assigned areas, responding to calls for assistance, conducting investigations, and making arrests when necessary.
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Projected Jobs
22,500
Median Salary
$65,790
Education Needed
High school diploma or equivalent
#3 in Highest Paying Jobs Without A 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
#4 in Highest Paying Jobs Without A Degree
A sales representative is an individual who is responsible for selling products or services on behalf of a company to potential customers. They play a crucial role in driving revenue and increasing the company's customer base. Sales representatives are often the primary point of contact between the company and its customers, and they are responsible for building and maintaining customer relationships.
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Projected Jobs
9,100
Median Salary
$63,230
Education Needed
High school diploma or equivalent
#5 in Highest Paying Jobs Without A Degree
A sound engineering technician is a professional responsible for the technical aspects of sound production and recording. They work in various settings including recording studios, live music venues, film and television production, and radio broadcasting. These technicians play a crucial role in ensuring that the sound quality is at its best and that all audio equipment is functioning properly.
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Projected Jobs
-200
Median Salary
$60,670
Education Needed
Postsecondary nondegree award
#6 in Highest Paying Jobs Without A Degree
A structural iron and steelworker, also known as an ironworker, is a skilled tradesperson who is responsible for fabricating, erecting, and dismantling the structural framework of buildings, bridges, and other large structures. They work with steel and iron to create the skeleton of a structure, which serves as the support system for the entire building.
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Projected Jobs
1,300
Median Salary
$60,500
Education Needed
High school diploma or equivalent
#7 in Highest Paying Jobs Without A 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
#8 in Highest Paying Jobs Without A 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
#9 in Highest Paying Jobs Without A 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
#10 in Highest Paying Jobs Without A Degree
Brickmasons and blockmasons are skilled tradespeople who specialize in building structures using bricks, concrete blocks, and other types of masonry materials. They are responsible for constructing and repairing a wide range of buildings and structures, including homes, commercial buildings, and industrial facilities.
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Projected Jobs
300
Median Salary
$59,000
Education Needed
High school diploma or equivalent
#11 in Highest Paying Jobs Without A Degree
A computer support specialist is a professional who provides technical assistance and support to individuals and organizations in need of help with their computer systems and software. They are responsible for diagnosing and resolving technical issues, as well as providing guidance and training to users.
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Projected Jobs
36,800
Median Salary
$57,890
Education Needed
Some college, no
#12 in Highest Paying Jobs Without A Degree
An insurance sales agent is a professional who sells various types of insurance policies to individuals and businesses. These policies can include life, health, property, and casualty insurance, among others. The primary role of an insurance sales agent is to assess the needs of potential clients and recommend the most suitable insurance products to meet their specific requirements.
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Projected Jobs
42,500
Median Salary
$57,860
Education Needed
High school diploma or equivalent
#13 in Highest Paying Jobs Without A 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
#14 in Highest Paying Jobs Without A Degree
A surgical technologist, also known as a scrub tech or operating room technician, is a vital member of the surgical team. They work alongside surgeons, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure that surgical procedures are conducted safely and efficiently.
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Projected Jobs
5,900
Median Salary
$55,960
Education Needed
Postsecondary nondegree award
#15 in Highest Paying Jobs Without A Degree
A sheet metal worker is a skilled tradesperson who specializes in working with sheet metal to create a variety of products and structures. These professionals use specialized tools and equipment to cut, bend, shape, and weld sheet metal materials to create a wide range of products, including ductwork, roofing, siding, and metal components for various industries.
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Projected Jobs
-200
Median Salary
$55,350
Education Needed
High school diploma or equivalent
#16 in Highest Paying Jobs Without A 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
#17 in Highest Paying Jobs Without A Degree
A firefighter is a highly trained and skilled professional who is responsible for responding to various types of emergencies, with a primary focus on combating fires and rescuing people from dangerous situations. Firefighters are typically employed by local fire departments, and they work in teams to provide rapid and effective assistance during emergencies.
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Projected Jobs
12,000
Median Salary
$51,680
Education Needed
Postsecondary nondegree award
#18 in Highest Paying Jobs Without A Degree
An equipment operator is a skilled professional who operates heavy machinery and equipment in various industries such as construction, mining, agriculture, and transportation. These individuals are trained to safely and efficiently operate a wide range of equipment including bulldozers, excavators, cranes, forklifts, and other heavy machinery.
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Projected Jobs
11,600
Median Salary
$51,430
Education Needed
High school diploma or equivalent
#19 in Highest Paying Jobs Without A Degree
A carpenter is a skilled tradesperson who works with wood to construct, install, and repair structures and fixtures. They are responsible for a wide range of tasks, from building furniture to framing houses. Carpenters work with a variety of tools and materials to complete their work, including saws, drills, hammers, and nails.
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Projected Jobs
8,600
Median Salary
$51,390
Education Needed
High school diploma or equivalent
#20 in Highest Paying Jobs Without A 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