In this article, we will look at the 10 highest paying jobs that don’t require a degree or experience. We have also discussed the growing causes of job insecurity in another article. If you are interested in reading about that along with a more extensive list, head straight to the 30 Highest Paying Jobs That Don’t Require a Degree or Experience.
10. Electrical Power-Line Installers and Repairers
Average Salary: $82,770
In 2022, electrical power-line installers and repairers earned a median salary of $82,340 per year. Typically, a high school diploma suffices for entry into this field, with no prior related work experience required. However, candidates undergo extensive on-the-job training. The job market for this role in 2022 consisted of 122,400 positions. Projections for job growth between 2022 and 2032 indicate a 3% increase, with an estimated addition of 3,500 new positions.
9. Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
Average Salary: $84,410
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers use specialized equipment to create images of internal organs, tissues, and blood flow in patients’ bodies. They perform ultrasound scans to aid in diagnosing medical conditions, such as pregnancy complications, cardiovascular diseases, and abnormalities in organs like the liver or kidneys.
8. Web Developer
Average Salary: $87,580
A web developer must possess proficiency in programming languages such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. They should have knowledge of web development frameworks like React or Angular, as well as understanding of version control systems like Git. Strong problem-solving abilities and continuous learning are essential for staying updated in this field.
7. Power Plant Operators
Average Salary: $88,960
Power Plant Operators earned a median annual salary of $97,570 in 2022. The typical entry-level requirement is a high school diploma, with no prior related work experience needed. In 2022, there were 47,300 jobs for the role, but the job outlook for 2022-2032 indicates a 10% decline which will result in a decrease of 4,700 jobs during that period.
6. Nuclear Medicine Technologists
Average Salary: $89,610
Their high pay is often justified by the specialized skills and knowledge required to ensure safety, accuracy, and effective patient care in this field. Additionally, their work aids in the early detection and management of diseases like cancer and heart conditions. The highest-paying states for nuclear medicine technologists are California, Washington, and Hawaii.
5. Elevator and Escalator Installers and Repairers
Average Salary: $93,960
Elevator and escalator installers and repairers earned a median salary of $99,000 per year. They typically enter the field with a high school diploma and undergo apprenticeships for on-the-job training. The occupation had 25,100 jobs in 2022 and there are predictions for minimal growth with a 1% job outlook for 2022-2032.
4. Nuclear Technicians
Average Salary: $97,040
In May 2022, Nuclear Technicians, assisting in laboratory and power generation activities, earned an average wage of $97,040 nationally, with hourly wages ranging from $30.53 to $60.60. The Electric Power Generation industry employed the most nuclear technicians, offering the highest mean wage of $103,910.
3. Radiation Therapists
Average Salary: $98,340
Radiation therapists, with a median pay of $89,530 per year, typically hold an associate’s degree. No prior work experience or on-the-job training is required. Job growth is projected at 2% from 2022 to 2032, adding 400 jobs.
2. Underwater Welders
Average Salary: $120,000
The welders must work in an underwater environment, where they frequently face the risk of drowning, hypothermia, and decompression sickness. The job demands specialized training, equipment, and certifications which also cause issues of accessibility when compared to traditional welding. Any job that is this physically demanding and isolated can be considered mentally and physically exhausting. It is one of the high-paying jobs nobody wants.
1. Air Traffic Controllers
Average Salary: $130,840
Air traffic controllers oversee the safe and orderly movement of aircraft within designated airspace and on runways. They communicate vital instructions to pilots, such as altitude changes and traffic advisories, while continuously monitoring radar and weather data. Their primary focus is on preventing collisions and minimizing delays, ensuring the efficient flow of air traffic in often crowded and complex airspace systems. It is the highest paid job without experience or degree.
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