I'm graduating soon and trying to figure out the best-paying jobs I can land straight out of high school. I want to start earning a decent salary. Does anyone have suggestions or personal experiences with good-paying gigs?
Certainly, there are several jobs you can pursue straight out of high school that have competitive salaries. However, it's always important to keep in mind that high school diplomas are treated differently across various fields. But here are some roles to consider:
1. Postal Service Mail Carriers: They collect and deliver mail on established routes. The median annual wage for postal service mail carriers was $52,060 in May 2023.
2. Wind Turbine Technicians: If you're interested in renewable energy, then being a wind turbine technician could be a great fit. This job does require some level of technical training, which can often be obtained at a technical school or through an apprenticeship. Median annual wages in May 2023 were $56,230.
3. Subway and Streetcar Operators: Operating subways or streetcars doesn't necessarily require any higher education but does involve on-the-job training. You could make around $68,170.
4. Claims Adjusters, Appraisers, Examiners, and Investigators: These professionals evaluate insurance claims determining whether an insurance company must pay a claim and if so, how much. The median annual wage was $68,130 in May 2023.
5. Elevator Installers and Repairers: This position involves installing, fixing, and maintaining elevators, escalators, and similar equipment. While it often requires an apprenticeship, it has a median pay of $86,200 per year.
Just note that these jobs may involve additional on-the-job training or apprenticeships, and wages can vary depending on the state, city, and specific job role. Also, wages may increase with experience and additional training over time. Be sure to look into each job and see what might be the best fit for your interests and skills! It's always a combination of potential pay and personal interest that leads to the most rewarding careers.
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