16 Well-Paying Jobs That Don’t Need a College Education

College helps you figure out life and get a good job; at least, this is the general consensus. While college is undoubtedly a noble option, you don’t necessarily need it to succeed in life. There are many high-paying jobs that don’t even require a college degree. Here are some of these jobs that can help you earn good without any university degree.

Commercial Pilots

A commercial pilot operates planes or helicopters for commercial purposes, including ferry pilots, tour pilots, cargo pilots, and even flight instructors. Their responsibilities may even include non-flight duties like maintenance and loading luggage. You don’t need a college degree, but being a commercial pilot requires formal training and pays about $50,000-120,000 yearly.

Data Entry Clerk

A data entry clerk handles clerical tasks, adds data to be processed, and updates data on computer systems. There are no educational requirements to become a data entry clerk; you’ll need fast typing, a keen eye for minute details, and basic computer skills. You’ll need to be consistent since the amount of work done defines the pay.

Scuba Diver

Scuba divers earn about $52,000 yearly, depending on their experience and affiliated company. Of course, scuba diving is no easy task; you’ll need intensive training with a certified company, but it takes only a few months and doesn’t require a college degree. Scuba divers explore marine life and assist with underwater equipment, searches, and structure repair.

Electrician

You might think an electrician’s job is tough because they have to repair electrical devices, maintain networks, and assist with installations. However, you don’t need a college degree to be an electrician; you need a basic high school diploma and an apprenticeship. Once you’re cleared to be an independent electrician, you could earn as much as $55000 (starting) annually.

Landscaper

A landscaper modifies the visible appearance of any part of land or a building. Basically, a landscaper maintains outdoor spaces and, if skilled enough, even helps design things like yards or patios. A landscaper earns about $60-70000 yearly and doesn’t usually require a college degree, but they do need to undergo training to ensure they’re well-equipped for the task.

Flight Attendant

Being a flight attendant is one of the most popular high-paying jobs that don’t require a college degree. The eligibility criteria for a flight attendant varies from airline to airline, but most only need a basic GED/high school diploma and good communication skills. The chances of landing the job are higher if you know a second language. A flight attendant typically earns up to or more than $64000 annually.

Plumber

A plumber’s position requires training and apprenticeship but doesn’t need a college degree, just like an electrician’s position. While being a plumber might not look ideal, its hours are flexible, the pay is good, and it doesn’t require much training time. You could earn about $60,000-70000 annually.

Insurance Sales Agent

An insurance agent sells the policies of one or more companies for a commission. This might sound like a job requiring a college degree, but it surprisingly doesn’t; all you need is strong communication skills and a comprehensive understanding of your selling policies. The pay depends on the number of companies you work with and their commission rate.

Equipment Operator

Who knew handling heavy machinery like excavators could pay a lot? Equipment operators aren’t only in charge of operating heavy machinery but also maintaining it and ensuring repairs are up to date. It might sound like a hefty position, but it only requires a basic apprenticeship and pays about $50,000 annually.

Carpenter

The average carpenter earns about $55,000 annually, or more if they run their own woodshop. Carpenters don’t require a college degree because their line of work requires extensive skills that can only be built through experience and handiwork. However, this doesn’t mean it’s easy; depending on the country and the state, the hours of training and apprenticeship required vary.

Real Estate Agent

A real estate agent’s average salary is about $96,000 yearly. A real estate agent’s responsibilities vary depending on what line of work they choose (corporate or residential), but the job usually doesn’t require a college degree. You still have to pass the licensing exam to qualify, but it’s much easier than you think.

Firefighter

With a median salary of $51,680, this is an excellent career path for someone who loves fieldwork. It is also ideal for someone who wants to make a career out of doing good for society. They are the first to respond to all types of emergencies and save lives, and by choosing this path, you secure a fulfilling and stable career with great pay.

Bus Driver

Becoming a bus driver is a rewarding career that allows you to work a stable job at any age (if you have a license) and earn a median salary of $50,890 without a college degree. With flexible hours and the opportunity to meet new passengers daily, this career offers fulfillment and financial stability. 

Ironworkers

Ironworkers help build things like tall buildings, bridges, and other big projects made of steel. You don’t need a college degree for this job, but you’ll need some hands-on training or an apprenticeship. The pay is good, usually between $50,000 and $90,000 a year, depending on your experience.

Postal Service Workers

Postal service workers sort mail, deliver packages and help customers with their mailing needs. This job pays around $50,000 a year on average and only requires a high school diploma to get started. It comes with steady hours, good benefits, and opportunities to grow in your career.

Surgical Technologist

Surgical technologists help out in the operating room by getting tools ready, keeping everything sterile, and assisting the surgical team during procedures. You don’t need a college degree, just specialized training to get started. This job is perfect if you’re detail-oriented and want to be part of the medical field. On average, a surgical technologist earns about $55,000 a year.

Massage Therapist

This is one of the easiest high-paying jobs you can land without a college degree. A massage therapist only needs to be good at communicating with the customers and kneading their knots out, so they don’t need to be a college grad to work. You can work independently or join a reputable company and earn about $61000 annually.

The article was inspired by the U.S. Career Institute, Indeed, and US News and first appeared on Rbitaliablog.