Do you want to earn a high salary without spending years in college? A traditional four-year degree may not be the only path to a high-paying career. There are a variety of jobs that offer competitive salaries without the need for a higher education degree. Here, we’ll discuss the top 10 highest-paying careers you can pursue without a degree.
1. Wind Turbine Technician
Wind turbine technicians, also known as wind techs, install, maintain, and repair wind turbines that generate electricity. These skilled workers typically receive on-the-job training and do not require a college degree. The median salary for wind turbine technicians is $54,370 per year.
2. Elevator Installer and Repairer
Elevator installers and repairers are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing elevators, escalators, and other lifts. These skilled workers typically receive on-the-job training and do not require a college degree. According to the BLS, the median salary for elevator installers and repairers is $79,480 per year.
3. Commercial Diver
Commercial divers perform a variety of underwater tasks, including inspection, repair, and maintenance of offshore oil and gas rigs, bridges, and shipwrecks. These workers typically receive on-the-job training and do not require a college degree. According to the BLS, the median salary for commercial divers is $53,990 per year.
4. Nuclear Power Reactor Operator
Nuclear power reactor operators control the systems that generate electricity in nuclear power plants. These workers typically receive on-the-job training and do not require a college degree. According to the BLS, the median salary for nuclear power reactor operators is $94,350 per year.
5. Detectives and Criminal Investigators
Detectives and criminal investigators gather facts and collect evidence for criminal investigations. These workers typically receive on-the-job training and do not require a college degree, although some employers may prefer candidates with some college education or military experience. According to the BLS, the median salary for detectives and criminal investigators is $79,970 per year.
6. Power Plant Operators
Power plant operators control and monitor the systems that generate electricity in power plants. These workers typically receive on-the-job training and do not require a college degree. According to the BLS, the median salary for power plant operators is $93,070 per year.
7. Air Traffic Controllers
Air traffic controllers coordinate the movement of aircraft in the air and on the ground. These workers typically receive on-the-job training and certification through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). According to the BLS, the median salary for air traffic controllers is $124,540 per year.
8. First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives
First-line supervisors of police and detectives supervise and coordinate the activities of police officers and detectives. These workers typically receive on-the-job training and do not require a college degree, although some employers may prefer candidates with some college education or military experience. According to the BLS, the median salary for first-line supervisors of police and detectives is $93,550 per year.
9. Funeral Service Managers
Funeral service managers plan, direct, and coordinate the services offered by funeral homes. These workers typically receive on-the-job training and do not require a college degree, although some employers may prefer candidates with a degree in mortuary science. According to the BLS, the median salary for funeral service managers is $76,840 per year.
10. Radiation therapist
Radiation therapists use radiation to treat cancer and other diseases in patients. These workers typically receive on-the-job training and certification through a radiation therapy program. According to the BLS, the median salary for radiation therapists is $85,560 per year.
In conclusion, there are many high-paying careers that don’t require a traditional four-year college degree. From power plant operators to air traffic controllers, these careers offer competitive salaries and often provide on-the-job training. Whether you’re just starting your career or looking for a change, consider exploring one of these in-demand fields.
