Looking for a new job it's not easy, and job seekers are frustrated. And if the market wasn't tough enough, a STUDY by Indeed earlier this year found that one in five postings on the platform required at least a four-year degree.
Fortunately, there are high-paying jobs that don't require college degrees, and a Resume Genius report released this month using data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics found that median salaries for these positions can range from $67,000 to $102,420 a year.
The researchers compiled the report based on two factors: Occupations had to have at least $48,060 in annual salary and have high or steady growth rates.
While the roles on the list may not require a four-year degree, some may still require internships, credentials, and years of training to achieve. “No degree” means no experience, or education.
For example, becoming the highest paid role on the list, an elevator and escalator installer and repairer, requires a four-year internship and a certification.
Other jobs on the list have different earnings depending on sales, such as No. 7, wholesale and manufacturing representative, which has an average salary of $73,080, though earnings will vary based on products sold and percentages of the commission.
Resume Genius recommends considering alternatives to four-year degrees, such as trade school certificate programs, internship programs, and technical bootcamps, when considering becoming competitive for these roles.
Related: These are the best jobs for every personality type, according to a new report
Here are the best paying jobs with good job growth rates you can get without a college degree.
1. Elevator and escalator installer and repairer
Average annual salary: $102,420
Number of jobs in 2023: 24,400
Growth rate: 6%
2. Transport, storage and distribution manager
Average annual salary: $99,200
Number of jobs in 2023: 211,800
Growth rate: 9%
3. Electric line installer and repairer
Average annual salary: $85,420
Number of jobs in 2023: 123,400
Growth rate: 8%
4. Aircraft and avionics equipment mechanic and technician
Average annual salary: $75,400
Number of jobs in 2023: 163,300
Growth rate: 8%
5. Detective and criminal investigator
Average annual salary: $74,910
Number of jobs in 2023: 796,800
Growth rate: 4%
6. Locomotive engineer
Average annual salary: $73,580
Number of jobs in 2023: 83,000
Growth rate: 2%
7. Wholesale and manufacturing representative
Average annual salary: $73,080
Number of jobs in 2023: 1,681,400
Growth rate: 1%
8. Athlete and sports competitor
Average annual salary: $70,280
Number of jobs in 2023: 25,100
Growth rate: 11%
9. Stewardess
Average annual salary: $68,370
Number of jobs in 2023: 130,300
Growth Rate: 10%
10. Building and construction inspector
Average annual salary: $67,000
Number of jobs in 2023: 142,600
Growth rate: 0%
Click here for the full report.