10 Highest Paying Jobs Without a Degree in the US

In this article, we will look at the 10 highest-paying jobs without a degree in the US. We have also discussed the employment statistics in the US in another article. If you are interested in reading about that along with a more extensive list, head straight to the 40 Highest-Paying Jobs Without a Degree in the US

10. Detectives and Investigators

Average Salary: $91,610

Private detectives and investigators typically need a high school diploma and under five years of relevant work experience. Moderate-term on-the-job training is standard, and a license is often required. The industry is anticipated to experience a 6% growth from 2022 to 2032, with 38,300 jobs in 2022.

9. Elevator and Escalator Installers and Repairers

Average Salary: $93,960

Elevator and escalator installers and repairers earn a median annual salary of $99,000, with the lowest 10% making less than $47,850 and the highest 10% earning over $135,130. Apprentices usually start at 50% of the fully trained workers’ wage, with incremental raises as they advance.

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.

7. Real Estate Agent

Average Salary: $96,602

The real estate boom is fading, prompting over 60,000 real estate agents to leave the industry in the last six months, per National Association of Realtors data. The increase in agents during the pandemic, drawn by high prices and sales, has reversed as existing home sales dropped 42% from January 2021 to April 2023. It is one of the remote jobs without a degree or experience.

6. Nuclear Technician

Average Salary: $97,040

The employment outlook for nuclear technicians is anticipated to remain relatively stable with little to no change from 2022 to 2032. Despite the modest growth in employment opportunities, an average of approximately 600 openings for nuclear technicians is projected annually over the decade.

5. Distribution Manager

Average Salary: $108,910 

In the United States, distribution managers play an important role in supply chain operations. According to Indeed.com, 38% of these managers possess a bachelor’s degree, while 37% have a high school diploma or GED. The median salary for distribution managers varies depending on experience and industry, with annual earnings ranging from $70,000 to over $100,000.4. Voice Over Artist

Average Salary: $111,531

Upwork offers a platform for hiring Voice-Over Artists with a range of skills. Highly skilled voice-over artists on Upwork have the potential to earn between $75 and $120 per hour. Serving as a reliable resource, Upwork facilitates connections between businesses and a vast pool of over 5 million freelancers worldwide.

3. Data Scientist

Average Salary: $115,240

The popularity of data scientist roles has surged due to the increasing importance of data-driven decision-making in various industries. With the exponential growth of data, organizations seek professionals who can analyze large datasets, extract meaningful insights, and contribute to strategic planning.

2. Full Stack Developer

Average Salary: $128,350

They need expertise in languages such as JavaScript, HTML, and CSS for crafting responsive and visually appealing user interfaces. On the back-end, proficiency in server-side languages like Node.js, Python, or Java is crucial, along with a deep understanding of databases, including both relational (e.g,  SQL) and non-relational (e.g., MongoDB) options. Knowledge of web application frameworks, and version control systems like Git, and experience with API development and integration is equally essential.

1. Airline and Commercial Pilots

Average Salary: $132,250

The severe shortage of pilots in the United States, exacerbated by retirements linked to the pandemic, is transforming the strategies of airlines in training and recruitment. Leading carriers such as United, American, Delta, and Southwest are now creating their flight schools and training initiatives. Despite the recruitment of over 5,500 pilots in 2023, the aviation industry anticipates a major shortfall, projected to reach 29,000 by the end of the decade. It is the highest paying job without a degree in the US

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