The 25 Highest-Paying Jobs Without a Degree Requirement
You don't need a four-year degree to score these jobs.
A traditional four-year college degree is not the only route to a high-paying career. Among U.S. News' list of the 100 Best Jobs, these 25 offered the highest pay without requiring a degree. An important note: Most of these jobs do require some form of postsecondary training, be it on-the-job experience, course work at a technical college or other credentialing and licensure.
Solar Photovoltaic Installer
Median Salary: $42,680
Expected Job Growth by 2026: 105%
These clean-energy experts build, install and repair solar panels on buildings. Many installers take courses at community colleges, technical schools or as part of an apprenticeship program, although a high school diploma is typically the only educational requirement to get started in this career.
Learn more about solar photovoltaic installers.
Auto Mechanic
Median Salary: $40,710
Expected Job Growth by 2026: 6%
Auto mechanics, also called service technicians, inspect and fix cars and light trucks, focusing on engines, transmissions and braking and steering systems.
Learn more about auto mechanics.
Insulation Contractor
Median Salary: $41,910
Expected Job Growth by 2026: 5%
These workers read blueprints, measure materials and install and replace insulation. They may need hazardous material training.
Learn more about insulation contractors.
Massage Therapist
Median Salary: $41,420
Expected Job Growth by 2026: 26%
Using their bodies and various methods of touch, massage therapists relieve client pain and help people relax.
Learn more about massage therapists.
Cement Mason and Concrete Finisher
Median Salary: $43,000
Expected Job Growth by 2026: 12.6%
These workers use power tools to finish the surfaces of poured concrete used for sidewalks, roads, curbs and floors.
Learn more about cement masons and concrete finishers.
Bus Driver
Median Salary: $42,080
Expected Job Growth by 2026: 9%
Transit and intercity bus drivers carry passengers where they need to go, sometimes collecting tickets and helping with luggage.
Learn more about bus drivers.
Glazier
Median Salary: $43,550
Expected Job Growth by 2026: 11%
These workers read blueprints, remove old panes and cut and install glass for doors, windows, mirrors and display cases.
Learn more about glaziers.
Licensed Practical Nurse and Licensed Vocational Nurse
Median Salary: $46,240
Expected Job Growth by 2026: 12%
In schools, nursing homes, clinics and hospitals, these nurses offer basic medical care.
Learn more about licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses.
Carpenter
Median Salary: $46,590
Expected Job Growth by 2026: 8%
Carpenters read directions and use tools to build, fix and install wooden frameworks.
Learn more about carpenters.
Real Estate Agent
Median Salary: $48,690
Expected Job Growth by 2026: 6%
When homebuyers or renters are looking to buy, sell or rent a home, these professionals are available to help with the process. Training requirements vary by state, but all require licensure.
Learn more about real estate agents.
Surgical Technologist
Median Salary: $47,300
Expected Job Growth by 2026: 12%
Surgical technologists help doctors during stressful procedures in the operating room. They organize tools and disinfect incision sites.
Learn more about surgical technologists.
Equipment Operator
Median Salary: $46,990
Expected Job Growth by 2026: 12%
On construction sites, equipment operators drive and control heavy machines such as bulldozers, trench excavators and pile drivers.
Learn more about equipment operators.
Sheet Metal Worker
Median Salary: $48,460
Expected Job Growth by 2026: 9%
Sheet metal workers work with thin layers of metal to create and install ducts used in heating and cooling.
Learn more about sheet metal workers.
Choreographer
Median Salary: $48,420
Expected Job Growth by 2026: 2.8%
Choreographers select movements and music to design new dances for performers.
Learn more about choreographers.
Insurance Sales Agent
Median Salary: $50,600
Expected Job Growth by 2026: 9.9%
These professionals are insurance know-it-alls who sell a range of policies, including auto, health, home and life insurance, as well as various commercial products.
Learn more about insurance agents.
Brickmason and Blockmason
Median Salary: $50,950
Expected Job Growth by 2026: 10.3%
These workers use bricks and other materials to construct or repair walls and various structures. Brickmasons and blockmasons may gain skills through on-the-job training, technical college programs and apprenticeships.
Learn more about brickmasons and blockmasons.
Plumber
Median Salary: $53,910
Expected Job Growth by 2026: 16%
Plumbers assemble, install and repair pipes and pipe systems.
Learn more about plumbers.
Structural Iron and Steelworker
Median Salary: $52,770
Expected Job Growth by 2026: 13%
These employees install iron and steel structures, gaining experience through apprenticeships and on-the-job training.
Learn more about structural iron and steelworkers.
Wind Turbine Technician
Median Salary: $54,370
Expected Job Growth by 2026: 96%
These workers adjust, diagnose, inspect or repair wind turbines. Training may take place on the job or through a technical program.
Learn more about wind turbine technicians.
Electrician
Median Salary: $55,190
Expected Job Growth by 2026: 9%
Electricians install and repair electrical power and other systems in business, factories and homes. Training happens on the job or at a technical school, with many states requiring licensure.
Learn more about electricians.
Hearing Aid Specialist
Median Salary: $54,860
Expected Job Growth by 2026: 19.5%
These professionals specialize in selecting, fitting and maintaining hearing-loss devices.
Learn more about hearing aid specialists.
Sound Engineering Technician
Median Salary: $55,810
Expected Job Growth by 2026: 6.3%
These audio whizzes are adept at setting up and operating sound equipment at a variety of events, from weddings to concerts.
Learn more about sound engineering technicians.
Sales Representative
Median Salary: $61,660
Expected Job Growth by 2026: 5%
These professionals sell goods and services to businesses, government agencies and other organizations.
Learn more about sales representatives.
Executive Assistant
Median Salary: $57,410
Expected Job Decline by 2026: -17.4%
Executive assistants help the higher-ups manage their time, schedules and paperwork. These pros may coordinate meetings, analyze documents or oversee clerical workers.
Learn more about executive assistants.
Patrol Officer
Median Salary: $61,380
Expected Job Growth by 2026: 7%
Patrol officers protect people and their property, which includes patrolling local areas, writing reports and responding to incidents.
Learn more about patrol officers.
The highest-paying jobs without a degree requirement include:
-- Patrol officer.
-- Sales representative.
-- Sound engineering technician.
-- Wind turbine technician.
-- Hearing aid specialist.
-- Plumber.
-- Choreographer.
-- Real estate agent.
