Top 20 High-Paying Jobs Without a Degree [2025]

October 29, 2024 0 Comments

Imagine life without electricity, clean water, or the steel beams that hold up skyscrapers. Hard to picture, right?

Basic industries—like mining, agriculture, and manufacturing—keep the world running, even if they don’t always make the headlines. And while they may seem gritty or “old school,” these industries offer some of the most lucrative careers around.

So, what are the best-paying jobs in this essential sector?

Let’s dive into the top roles in basic industries where hard work truly pays off.

Top 20 High-Paying Jobs Without a Degree

High-Paying Jobs Without a Degree

1. Commercial Pilot

Average Salary: $70,000 – $200,000

Commercial pilots fly passengers or cargo for airlines and other services. While they don’t need a college degree, they must complete training and obtain a commercial pilot’s license. The job often offers flexibility with schedules and travel opportunities, making it an attractive career choice.

2. Air Traffic Controller

Average Salary: $65,000 – $130,000

Air traffic controllers manage the safe and orderly flow of air traffic. They require specialized training and certification but not a degree. The role demands excellent communication skills and the ability to make quick decisions under pressure, often leading to rewarding pay and job stability.

3. Elevator Installer and Repairer

Average Salary: $50,000 – $90,000

These professionals install and maintain elevators, escalators, and other lifting devices. Most learn through apprenticeships and gain skills on the job. The demand for their expertise is high, especially in urban areas, making it a lucrative field without the need for a formal degree.

4. Web Developer

Average Salary: $50,000 – $100,000

Web developers design and create websites, focusing on layout, functionality, and user experience. Many successful developers are self-taught or have completed coding boot camps. The tech industry values skills and experience over degrees, allowing for diverse entry points into this field.

5. Radiation Therapist

Average Salary: $80,000 – $100,000

Radiation therapists administer radiation treatments to patients with cancer and other diseases. While a degree isn’t mandatory, specialized training and certification are required. The job is critical in healthcare, offering the chance to make a significant impact on patients’ lives.

6. Nuclear Power Reactor Operator

Average Salary: $85,000 – $120,000

Operators manage the systems that generate nuclear power. They typically need a high school diploma, on-the-job training, and licensing. This role offers high pay due to the technical expertise required and the critical nature of their work in energy production.

7. Plumber

Average Salary: $50,000 – $85,000

Plumbers install and repair water, gas, and sewage systems. Most learn through apprenticeships, gaining practical experience. With a constant need for plumbing services in both residential and commercial settings, skilled plumbers can command high wages and enjoy job security.

8. Electrician

Average Salary: $55,000 – $85,000

Electricians work on electrical systems in homes, businesses, and factories. Training typically involves apprenticeships rather than formal degrees. With the ongoing need for electrical work in various sectors, this career is both financially rewarding and stable.

9. Construction Manager

Average Salary: $70,000 – $120,000

Construction managers oversee construction projects from start to finish. While many have degrees, extensive experience and knowledge of the industry can substitute for formal education. The role involves strong leadership and organizational skills, with potential for high earnings.

10. Real Estate Broker

Average Salary: $50,000 – $120,000

Real estate brokers help clients buy, sell, and rent properties. While a degree isn’t required, brokers must obtain a license and typically gain experience as agents first. The potential for high commissions makes this a lucrative field, especially in thriving markets.

11. Sales Manager

Average Salary: $60,000 – $120,000

Sales managers lead sales teams and develop strategies to meet sales goals. Many start in sales positions and work their way up, valuing experience over formal education. The role offers high earning potential through bonuses and commissions based on team performance.

12. Fire Chief

Average Salary: $70,000 – $110,000

Fire chiefs manage fire departments and lead emergency response efforts. While experience in firefighting is essential, formal education isn’t strictly necessary. The position involves leadership, decision-making, and community safety, offering both high pay and respect.

13. Wind Turbine Technician

Average Salary: $50,000 – $80,000

These technicians install and maintain wind turbines. Training programs and apprenticeships provide the necessary skills without requiring a degree. As renewable energy grows, this field is expanding rapidly, with good job prospects and competitive salaries.

14. Surgical Technologist

Average Salary: $45,000 – $75,000

Surgical technologists assist in surgeries by preparing the operating room and ensuring instruments are sterile and ready. Many enter the field through certification programs rather than degrees. The role is critical in healthcare, offering a rewarding career path with strong pay.

15. Massage Therapist

Average Salary: $40,000 – $80,000

Massage therapists provide therapeutic treatments to clients, requiring certification rather than a degree. The demand for alternative healthcare continues to rise, providing opportunities for flexible work hours and good earnings based on client base.

16. Postmaster

Average Salary: $50,000 – $80,000

Postmasters oversee local postal operations, ensuring efficient service. The position typically requires experience rather than a degree. With the growth of e-commerce, postal services remain essential, providing stability and competitive pay.

17. Transportation Manager

Average Salary: $60,000 – $100,000

Transportation managers oversee logistics and the transportation of goods. They often rise through the ranks without needing a degree, gaining experience in logistics and supply chain management. The role is vital in many industries, making it well-compensated.

18. Window and Door Installer

Average Salary: $45,000 – $75,000

Installers work on residential and commercial projects, fitting windows and doors. They typically receive on-the-job training rather than formal education. Skilled installers are in high demand, allowing for competitive wages and steady work.

19. Security Manager

Average Salary: $60,000 – $100,000

Security managers develop policies to protect an organization’s assets and personnel. Experience in security roles often outweighs the need for a degree. The job’s importance in today’s security-conscious environment leads to strong pay and job stability.

20. Landscape Designer

Average Salary: $40,000 – $70,000

Landscape designers create outdoor spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Many enter the field through experience and certification rather than a degree. As more people seek outdoor enhancements, this career offers good earning potential.