In this article, we will look at the 10 highest paying jobs without a degree in 2023. We have also discussed the latest trends in the employment and hiring landscape around the world 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 Without a Degree in 2023.
10. Detectives and Investigators
Average Salary: $91,610
Private detectives and investigators typically require a high school diploma and less than 5 years of related work experience. Moderately-term on-the-job training is common, and a license is often necessary. The field is expected to grow 6% from 2022 to 2032 with 38,300 jobs in 2022. Approximately 3,800 annual job openings are projected, driven by workforce turnover and retirement. It is one of the top 10 highest paying jobs without a degree in 2023.
9. Elevator and Escalator Installers and Repairers
Average Salary: $93,960
Elevator and escalator installers and repairers command a median annual wage of $99,000, with the lowest 10% earning under $47,850 and the highest 10% surpassing $135,130. The starting pay for apprentices is typically 50% of the fully trained workers’ wage, with increases as they progress. Industries like government ($103,610) and building equipment contractors ($100,680) offer competitive wages in this field. Most work full-time, and on-call duties may extend to 24 hours a day, especially for emergency repairs or meeting construction deadlines.
8. Gambling Manager
Average Salary: $95,830
Gambling managers oversee casino or gaming operations to ensure smooth functioning, adherence to regulations, and customer satisfaction. They handle staffing, coordinate activities, and manage finances. It is one of the highest paying jobs without a degree in 2023.
7. Real Estate Agent
Average Base Salary: $96,602
To work as a notary or real estate agent, you’ll need state certification or licensing which usually takes 1-9 months. While average salaries for real estate agents are high, the top 10% of real estate agents earn well over $100,000.
6. Distribution Manager
Average Salary: $108,910
Distribution managers in the United States play a crucial role in supply chain operations. While 38% of these managers hold a bachelor’s degree, 37% hold only a high school diploma or GED, according to Indeed.com. The median salary for distribution managers varies based on experience and industry, ranging from $70,000 to over $100,000 annually.
5. Voice Over Artist
Average Salary: $111,531
Upwork provides a platform for hiring Voice-Over Artists with diverse skills. Top voice over artists can earn from $75/hr to $120/hr. Upwork serves as a trusted resource, connecting businesses with over 5 million freelancers globally.
4. Mobile App Developer
Average Salary: $114,669
Mobile app developers are in high demand as the global mobile user base is projected to reach $7.33 billion by 2023. To excel in this field, developers need skills like programming languages (JavaScript, C++, C#), software development knowledge, back-end computing, cross-platform concepts, cybersecurity, agile development, and IoT skills.
3. Data Scientist
Average Salary: $115,240
Two of the industries with the highest employment rates for data scientists are Computer Systems Design and Related Services as well as the management of companies and enterprises industry. In May 2023, Bloomberg also reported on the increase in popularity of data science master’s programs at business schools. To read more about data scientists, see the highest paying countries for data scientists.
2. Full Stack Developer
Average Salary: $128,350
Full-stack developers are proficient in both front-end and back-end processes and are hence, crucial for startups and large organizations alike. They offer cost-effectiveness, extensive technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and the ability to provide customized solutions. Hiring from platforms like Upwork or dedicated developers remotely can be budget-friendly for small enterprises.
1. Airline and Commercial Pilots
Average Salary: $132,250
The acute shortage of pilots in the US is exacerbated by pandemic-related retirements and is reshaping how airlines approach training and recruitment. Major carriers like United, American, Delta, and Southwest are establishing their flight schools and branded training programs. Despite hiring over 5,500 pilots this year, the industry faces a shortfall, projected to reach 29,000 by the decade’s end. It is the job that makes the most money without a degree.
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