10 Best Jobs for People with No Degree

So you want a high paying job but do not want to stack up thousands or even hundreds of thousands of dollars in student loan debt?

Look no further! Check out these 10 high paying jobs that you do not need a degree to get:


1. Postal Service Mail Carrier

This job requires you to sort and delivery mail along certain routes. You do not need any work experience to apply or obtain this job. You will receive, however, a short-term training by the U.S. Postal Service.

According to the United States Bureau of Labor statistics, the median annual wage for a postal service mail carrier is $44,030.


2. Claims Adjusters, Examiners, and Investigators

Claims adjusters, examiners, and investigators look into insurance claims by interviewing witnesses, consulting with the police, reviewing hospital records, and inspecting any property damage to determine whether a company is liable.

This job requires a high school diploma, but you will receive long-term on-the-job training. The median annual wage for a claims adjuster, examiner, and investigator is $72,230.


3. Construction Equipment Operators

Construction equipment operator jobs require moderate on-the-job training to ensure proper use of all construction equipment as well as safety training. Some of the equipment includes pile-drivers, pavers, and surfacing tools.

The median annual wage is around $51,050 depending on the type of construction equipment you use.


4. Electricians

Working as an electrician requires yo u to install electrical wiring in buildings, stationary machines, and related equipment. In order to obtain this job, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent.

As it is a trade job, you will have to engage in an apprenticeship in order to obtain the proper training. The annual median wage is $60,240.


5. Gas Plant Operators

The primary responsibility of gas plant operators include monitoring plant equipment, observing temperature and pressure gauges, controlling compression and refrigeration equipment, and detecting abnormalities.

You will receive long-term on-the-job training to bring you up to speed on the individual requirements of a particular plant. The annual median wage for a gas plant operator is $46,521.


6. Subway and Streetcar Operators

As a subway or streetcar operator, you are required to transport passengers in underground tunnels or aboveground tracks.

Most subway trains and streetcars are machine operated so a majority of your job will be monitoring the vehicle's speed and looking out for obstacles and potential hazards. You will receive moderate on-the-job training or training from public transit trade organizations.

The annual median wage is $62,360.


7. Chef/Culinary Professional

The culinary industry values passion, creativity, and practical experience over formal education. Aspiring chefs can gain hands-on training through apprenticeships, culinary schools, or by working their way up from entry-level positions.

With dedication and a love for food, individuals can thrive as chefs, restaurant owners, or even food bloggers.


8. Personal Trainer

For fitness enthusiasts, becoming a certified personal trainer can be a fulfilling career path. While a college degree is not required, acquiring proper certification and practical experience is essential.

Personal trainers can work independently or find employment in gyms, recreation centers, or even online platforms, helping others achieve their fitness goals.


9. Real Estate Agent

A real estate agent's success relies on strong interpersonal skills, networking abilities, and knowledge of the local market. Although a college degree is not mandatory, fulfilling specific licensing requirements is important.

This profession offers the potential for high commissions, flexible schedules, and opportunities for entrepreneurship.


10. Power Plant Operators, Distributors, and Dispatchers

These jobs require you to control power-generating equipment as well as read gauges and meters to ensure proper voltage and electricity flows. You only need a high school diploma or its equivalent.

The annual median wage for power plant operators, distributors, and dispatchers is $71,940.


It's important to note that while formal education is not always a requirement, gaining practical experience, certification, and apprenticeships are essential in many of these fields. For additional funds, you can even explore more unconventional sources of income like side hustles or grants from the government or organizations. 

With determination and the right skill set, individuals can find fulfilling and lucrative career paths without the burden of extensive student loan debt.