I'm about to graduate and want to know about jobs that offer a good salary without needing a degree. What are some of the top-paying roles available for someone with just a diploma?
There are several high-paying jobs you can land with just a high school diploma. These often require specific skill sets, and some may involve apprenticeships, on-the-job training, or certifications, but no formal degree. Here are some examples:
- Commercial Pilots: No degree is necessary, but you will need a pilot license from the Federal Aviation Administration. Salaries are potentially more than $100,000 per year, but it can take time to reach this pay level.
- Elevator Installers and Repairers: Many get their training through an apprenticeship. The work is well-paying, with median earnings well over the typical for all occupations.
- Nuclear Power Reactor Operators: They control nuclear reactors. You will have to progress through several levels of operating jobs and pass a licensing exam.
- Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers: They coordinate the storage and shipment of goods. Many work their way up from lower-level positions.
- Industrial Production Managers: They oversee operations and ensure that products are made efficiently. Like transportation, storage, and distribution managers, many also work their way up from lower rungs on the corporate ladder.
- Power Distributors and Dispatchers: They regulate the flow of electricity from the power plant to substations and users. You may have to study on the job for several years to learn this trade.
Keep in mind that although these professions don't require a degree, they still require a significant amount of training and experience. Many people in these roles began in entry-level positions and were promoted as they demonstrated their skills. Researching more about these professions will give you an idea of what they involve and allow you to decide if they align well with your abilities and career goals.
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