If I decide not to attend college after high school, what are the highest paying jobs I can aim for with just my diploma? Looking for advice on starting salaries and growth potential too!
There are several high-paying careers that you can explore with a high school diploma. Remember that while these jobs might not require a college degree, they do often require specific vocational training, certification, or extensive on-the-job experience.
1. Transportation, Storage and Distribution Managers: These individuals are responsible for overseeing the allocation and shipping of merchandise in the most cost- and time-efficient manner. While a degree isn't required, most have substantial experience in the field, often working their way up from lower roles.
2. Nuclear Power Reactor Operators: This job involves controlling nuclear reactors. It requires extensive on-the-job training and a licensing exam.
3. Detectives and Criminal Investigators: These are law enforcement officials who gather facts and collect evidence for criminal cases. Some police departments might require some college coursework, but others only require a high school diploma.
4. Commercial Pilot: Commercial pilots often work in unconventional roles, like rescue operations, firefighting, or aerial photography. They don't require a degree but do require a commercial pilot's license from the Federal Aviation Administration.
5. Air Traffic Controllers: These individuals coordinate the movement of aircraft to maintain safe distances between them. You must complete an air traffic management degree from a Federal Aviation Administration certified school and pass several tests.
6. Power Distributors and Dispatchers: People in this role control the flow of electricity from generating stations to substations and users. Much of the necessary training happens on the job.
7. Elevator Installers and Repairers: As the name suggests, these individuals install, repair, and maintain elevators, escalators, moving walkways, etc. They usually start through an apprenticeship.
Keep in mind that these jobs, while high-paying, often require specialized skills and may involve physical labor. Furthermore, job availability can vary based on location, so it's worth doing some research into the demand for these roles in your specific area.
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