High Paying Jobs With No Degree

Turn your skills into lucrative career opportunities
—no degree required!

A college degree isn’t the only path to a successful, high-paying career. Today, more industries are valuing skills, certifications, and experience over traditional education. If you’re ready to start earning without spending years — and thousands of dollars — on a degree, you have plenty of options.

Air-traffic controllers

Air traffic controllers are responsible for coordinating the safe movement of aircraft in the skies and at airports. It’s a high-stress, high-responsibility role…

Power distributors and Dispatchers

Keeping electricity flowing across the grid is essential, and power distributors and dispatchers are responsible for monitoring and managing electrical…

Elevator installers and repairers

Working with elevators, escalators, and lifts can lead to a well-paying career. Most elevator installers and repairers start through apprenticeships and on…

Detectives and Criminal Investigators

Detectives and criminal investigators work to solve crimes and gather evidence for criminal cases. Most start as police officers and move into investigative…

Power-plant Operators

Power plant operators are responsible for controlling, monitoring, and maintaining the machinery that generates electricity. The role typically requires a high…

Funeral-service managers

Funeral service managers oversee the operations of funeral homes, including managing staff, coordinating services, and supporting families during difficult…

Dental Hygienists

Dental hygienists work closely with dentists to provide preventive care, clean teeth, and educate patients about oral health. The role typically requires an associate…

Transportation Inspectors

Transportation inspectors ensure that vehicles like trucks, buses, trains, and airplanes meet safety regulations and operate properly. Most positions require a high…

Postmasters and Mail Superintendents

Postmasters and mail superintendents manage the operations of post offices, oversee staff, and ensure that mail is processed and delivered efficiently. Most…

Air Traffic Controllers

Air traffic controllers are responsible for coordinating the safe movement of aircraft in the skies and at airports. It’s a high-stress, high-responsibility role, but it comes with a high salary to match. After completing specialized FAA training and certification, air traffic controllers can earn median salaries over $120,000 per year, making it one of the highest-paying jobs that doesn’t require a traditional degree.

Power Distributors and Dispatchers

Keeping electricity flowing across the grid is essential, and power distributors and dispatchers are responsible for monitoring and managing electrical systems. This critical role typically requires technical training and on-the-job experience rather than a college degree. Salaries for power distributors and dispatchers often reach around $85,000 or more annually, with strong benefits and job security.

Elevator Installers and Repairers

Working with elevators, escalators, and lifts can lead to a well-paying career. Most elevator installers and repairers start through apprenticeships and on-the-job training. With increased construction and infrastructure development, experienced professionals often earn over $80,000 annually, along with excellent union benefits.

Detectives and Criminal Investigators

Detectives and criminal investigators work to solve crimes and gather evidence for criminal cases. Most start as police officers and move into investigative roles through promotions and specialized training rather than earning a degree. Salaries often exceed $80,000 annually, and experienced investigators can earn even more, especially in federal or specialized agencies.

Power Plant Operators

Power plant operators are responsible for controlling, monitoring, and maintaining the machinery that generates electricity. The role typically requires a high school diploma and extensive on-the-job training rather than a college degree. With a strong sense of attention to detail and technical skill, power plant operators often earn salaries around $80,000 or more annually, along with excellent benefits.

Funeral Service Managers

Funeral service managers oversee the operations of funeral homes, including managing staff, coordinating services, and supporting families during difficult times. While some positions may prefer an associate degree in mortuary science, many managers advance through experience and state licensing. Salaries typically range from $70,000 to over $90,000 annually, with opportunities to earn more in larger or privately owned funeral homes.

Dental Hygienists

Dental hygienists work closely with dentists to provide preventive care, clean teeth, and educate patients about oral health. The role typically requires an associate degree and state licensure, but not a four-year degree. Dental hygienists often earn between $70,000 and $90,000 per year, with flexible scheduling options and strong demand across the country.

Transportation Inspectors

Transportation inspectors ensure that vehicles like trucks, buses, trains, and airplanes meet safety regulations and operate properly. Most positions require a high school diploma, specialized training, and industry experience rather than a college degree. Salaries for transportation inspectors typically range from $60,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on the industry and level of specialization.

Postmasters and Mail Superintendents

Postmasters and mail superintendents manage the operations of post offices, oversee staff, and ensure that mail is processed and delivered efficiently. Most start with a high school diploma and work their way up through experience and internal promotions. Salaries often range from $70,000 to $90,000 per year, with strong government benefits and retirement packages.