Top 5 Jobs You Can Get Without a College Degree

More people today are skipping college and finding good jobs that don’t need a degree. Many of these jobs are in high demand and pay well, but they often require specific training or an apprenticeship to build the right skills. In this article, we'll explore five in-demand jobs you can get without a college degree and show what each job offers in terms of pay and responsibilities.

1. Elevator and Escalator Installer and Repair Technician

Elevator and escalator installers are needed to keep buildings running smoothly. These jobs don’t need a degree, but workers often go through a four-year apprenticeship to learn essential skills. In these programs, you’ll learn about safety, mechanical parts, and even digital controls. Most states also require a license to work in this field.

With an average annual salary of $102,420, this is one of the highest-paying jobs that doesn’t require a college degree. However, workers should be ready to work in cramped spaces, climb to high places, and sometimes work overtime.

Key Points:

Requirements: Four-year apprenticeship, state license in most states.
Skills learned: Safety, mechanical and digital systems, elevator and escalator parts.
Pay: Average of $102,420 per year.

2. Subway and Streetcar Operator

Subway and streetcar operators are essential for public transportation in big cities. They control the trains that move people around, making sure they start, stop, and move at the right speeds. Operators also learn to open and close doors safely and check that everything is running smoothly.

Training for this job takes a few months to a year and usually happens on the job. The pay is good too; operators make around $84,270 per year.

Key Points:

Requirements: On-the-job training (a few months to a year).
Skills learned: Train driving, controlling doors, speed management, safety checks.
Pay: Around $84,270 per year.

3. Costume Attendant

Costume attendants are great for those who love theater and movies. They help actors and performers by selecting, fitting, and maintaining costumes. This job usually doesn’t need formal training or a degree, and many people learn on the job while working with theater companies or in film.

Though it doesn’t pay as much as some other jobs on this list, costume attendants still make a decent wage at about $52,370 per year. Plus, this job is full of creative opportunities for those who enjoy hands-on work in the entertainment industry.

Key Points:

Requirements: No formal training; skills learned on the job.
Skills learned: Costume selection, fitting, and maintenance.
Pay: Around $52,370 per year.

4. Forest Fire Inspector and Prevention Specialist

Forest fire inspectors play a key role in protecting forests and communities from fires. They look for fire hazards, suggest prevention steps, and investigate fires when they occur. Although a degree isn’t necessary, most people start out as firefighters before moving into this role. Additional on-the-job training is also required, and certification may be needed in some places.

With an average salary of $71,420, this job is rewarding both financially and personally, as you’ll be helping protect natural resources and public safety.

Key Points:

Requirements: Firefighting experience and on-the-job training, may need certification.
Skills learned: Fire detection, prevention, investigation.
Pay: About $71,420 per year.

5. Airline Operations Specialist

Airline operations specialists make sure planes take off and land safely. They track flight records, check weather information, and ensure all flights stay on schedule. To get this job, most people complete an apprenticeship in airfield management or similar training.

The pay for airline operations specialists averages $51,140 per year. This job is ideal for those who like a fast-paced work environment and want to work in the aviation field.

Key Points:

Requirements: Apprenticeship in airfield or operations management.
Skills learned: Flight tracking, weather data analysis, scheduling.
Pay: About $51,140 per year.

Conclusion

These five jobs show that you don’t need a college degree to find good-paying, rewarding work. By completing apprenticeships and gaining hands-on experience, you can build the skills needed for a stable and successful career. From fixing elevators to preventing forest fires, these jobs offer a variety of paths to a great career without the cost and time commitment of a college education. If you’re looking for an alternative path to a good job, one of these in-demand careers might be perfect for you.