29+ Highest Paying Jobs Without a Degree in 2026

Higher education is widely considered one of the best ways to get a well-paid career. However, the modern market has experienced significant shifts in recent years, and you can now get some of the best jobs without a degree that pay well. Not only that, but the variety of occupations is immense, ranging from skilled trades and tech to real estate and aviation.

In this article, we’ll explain how it’s possible to get a high-paying job without a higher degree, before going into numerous examples of such roles. We’ll also give you several options if you’re looking for remote work, and give you expert tips on how to modify your resume in case you don’t have a degree.

Can You Really Get a High-Paying Job Without a Degree?

Yes, you can really get a high-paying job without a degree. While formal academic credentials are still valued and required for many positions, an increasing number of employers value practical skills, experience, and specialized certifications just as much, if not more.

If you're looking for high-paying careers with no degree, the options span far more industries than most people expect. This is particularly prominent in fields like technology, trades, and sales. In these industries, it’s often much more important what you can do, rather than where you went to school.

Furthermore, employers are increasingly relying on skill-based hiring, often recognizing that industry-specific licenses, on-the-job training, and vocational programs produce highly capable professionals, regardless of their formal education. And no wonder, since the World Economic Forum’s latest report found that workers can expect almost 40% of their existing skill set to be transformed by 2030. 

20 Paying Jobs Without a Degree in 2026

Historically, it was conventional wisdom that a four-year degree was the best (and sometimes the only) ticket to financial success. While higher education still remains valuable, this concept is becoming increasingly outdated.

Today, professionals can enter many high-income fields through apprenticeships, vocational programs, professional certifications, employer-sponsored training, and even military experience. The modern market values hard and soft skills, as well as hands-on experience, much more than in the past.

Below, we’ve compiled a list of 20 high-paying jobs you can land without a degree in 2026. As far as formal education requirements go, all you need for these jobs is a high school diploma or equivalent, so let’s see what they are.

#1. Air Traffic Controller

The role of an air traffic controller involves managing air traffic. It’s an extremely responsible, sometimes even stressful job, but it’s also highly paid; air traffic controllers may earn more than $144,580 per year, making it one of the highest-paid jobs without a degree.

While an associate degree is typically required, this is a two-year program rather than a four-year bachelor's degree, making it more accessible than many traditional degree paths. You will also need to undergo continuous training and have a few years of responsible work experience. The ideal combo is education or training plus expertise.

This is not a common 9-to-5 job; rather, the working hours are atypical, with frequent night shifts. If you don’t mind working late hours, you can look for opportunities on universal job boards (Indeed) or specialized platforms for aeronautical vacancies (FlightJobs or Nats).

The job prospects, however, are not very high—about 1% in the period from 2024 to 2034, yet there are vacancies emerging on a regular basis.

#2. Commercial Pilot

For airline pilots, a bachelor's degree is one of the common requirements, but it’s not essential for commercial pilots.

For airline pilots, a bachelor's degree is one of the common requirements, but it’s not essential for commercial pilots.

These pilots fly helicopters and non-airline planes, such as private jets. As opposed to their airline peers, commercial pilots typically perform charter and private flights and aerial tours.

While commercial pilots don’t need a university diploma, they do need specific certificates and licenses. They have to attend a commercial pilot course and flight training, after which they take an FAA test. Specific experience is usually required, mostly about 12+ months of on-the-job training.

The commercial pilot’s median annual salary is $198,100, and the job is expected to grow 4% in the ten-year period (2024-2034).

If the salary sounds attractive and you have the required expertise, you can look for employment on job search sites, such as Indeed or ZipRecruiter, or specialized aviation boards like PilotsGlobal, AirlineJobFinder, and Aviation Job Search.

#3. Construction Manager

A construction manager is in charge of supervising and managing construction projects, ranging from expense estimates to final inspections. They collaborate with civil engineers and architects to make sure that the construction project meets all the requirements. In addition, they are responsible for obtaining the necessary licenses and permits.

Although this role can require an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in construction, one might be able to obtain it without it if he or she has sufficient experience and has completed relevant programs/courses. Sometimes, companies may provide on-the-job training where you’ll be supervised by an experienced manager.

A construction manager’s median annual salary is $106,980, with top earners exceeding $150,000. The job outlook is 9% from 2024 to 2034, which is much faster than average compared to other occupations.

#4. Boilermaker

Boilermakers assemble, install, maintain, and repair boilers and other large containers for liquids and gases. They are highly skilled tradespeople who perform specialized, physically demanding work, which is the main reason for good compensation.

When it comes to education, boilermakers only need a high school diploma or equivalent. The skills necessary for this position are acquired through a formal apprenticeship program that typically lasts four years. It consists of both classroom instruction and on-the-job training, which is usually paid.

As a boilermaker, you can expect a median annual salary of $73,340, though top earners make a lot more. The downside of this profession is that the employment outlook depends on the demands of the construction and manufacturing industries. The current job outlook is declining, with a -2% change between 2024 and 2034.

#5. Elevator Installer

The role of an elevator installer and repairer is often overlooked, but it is one of the highest-paying skilled trades available without a degree. And given the conditions they work under—confined and claustrophobic spaces using heavy machinery and being available 24/7—it’s no wonder they’re paid well.

Elevator installers typically make $106,580 per year. More than that, they have a positive and faster-than-average job outlook of 5%. This amounts to about 2,000 new openings every year between 2024 and 2034.

To thrive in this position, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent and obtain skills and experience through an apprenticeship.

#6. Power Plant Operator

The primary responsibilities of a power plant operator include operating, maintaining, and controlling machines that produce electric energy to the grid. They also regulate how much electricity the power plant generates.

This position is highly technical, so all the necessary skills can be acquired through on-the-job training. Thus, all the necessary formal education doesn’t go beyond a high school diploma or its equivalent.

The median annual salary for a power plant operator is $103,600, but the job is expected to decline by 10% by 2034. Despite that, about 3,800 new openings are projected each year. Specialized job boards such as Rigzone, Oil and Gas Job Search, and Total Jobs are ideal for seeking vacancies for this position.

#7. Real Estate Agent

A real estate agent or broker purchases, sells, or rents real estate on behalf of their clients. In addition, they help homebuyers find their dream home or property.

To become a real estate agent, a high school diploma or its equivalent is required, along with some real estate courses. Agents also need to take a state-administered exam to obtain the necessary requirements.

To thrive in this career, real estate agents need to excel at networking and establishing relationships. They should also be comfortable working long hours since prospective clients frequently want to visit properties outside typical office hours.

The number of sold properties has a direct impact on the payment; the more they sell, the higher the salary will be. But on average, real estate agents earn $58,960 per year. However, since it’s a sales-oriented occupation, adept professionals can easily earn six figures.

Employment for this position is expected to grow by 3% by 2034, which is as fast as other occupations.

#8. Sound Engineer

The tasks of a sound engineer involve setting up audio equipment, making sure that microphones function properly, and monitoring and operating equipment such as amplifiers, effects units, etc., during an event or performance. Their duties may also include recording and synchronizing sounds, along with managing the lights.

Even though some vacancies may require an associate degree, usually certificates or postsecondary non-degree awards will do. What matters most are audio engineering skills gained through on-the-job training.

Audio engineering is among the low-stress jobs that pay well. Sound engineers make a median salary of about $56,600 per year, but professionals working in major entertainment industries can earn significantly more. Sound engineering job prospects should grow by 1% in the upcoming decade, with nearly 11,100 projected openings each year.

#9. Web Developer

Web developers are in charge of designing, building, and maintaining websites. As such, they blend both technical and creative skills without the need for a university degree. However, employers might prefer candidates who have specific certificates or an associate degree.

This position is in high demand, so job prospects over the next decade are pretty high, at 7%. This amounts to about 14,500 projected new openings each year. With a median annual salary of $95,380, web development is an enticing option for tech-oriented professionals.

If you’re on the lookout for a web developer gig, check out platforms such as Upwork, Indeed, or LinkedIn. You can also apply directly to companies, as this is a widely sought-after position.

#10. Aircraft Mechanic

Aircraft wouldn’t be safe for travel without mechanics to maintain and repair them. Aircraft mechanics inspect, repair, and care for both private and commercial jets. This job involves working in cramped spaces, like the interior of a plane fuselage.

These technicians commonly have a high school diploma or its equivalent. They also have to undergo an FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) certificate program to acquire all the necessary knowledge and skills. Alternatively, they can do so via training in the military.

The median salary ranges between $45,760 and $114,750 per year, with the average revolving around $79,140. The job outlook is faster than average, at 5%. This amounts to about 13,100 openings every year until 2034.

You can look for opportunities on general job platforms like Indeed and LinkedIn or aviation-specific ones like Aviation Job Search, FlightGlobal, and Aerotek.

#11. Postmaster

A postmaster or mail superintendent plans, instructs, and organizes the operational, administrative, and support services of a US post office. They are responsible for managing one or several post offices.

To fill the position of postmaster, a postsecondary or university degree is not mandatory; a high school diploma or an associate degree will be sufficient. However, what is a must is several years of experience working within the US Postal Service.

The median salary for this role is about $88,670, but as you grow with the company and gain more experience, you can earn upward of $104,940.

The postmaster position is experiencing a rapid decline—by 2034, it’s projected to drop by 4%. You can check out vacancies for this role on the official United States Postal Service website, job platforms, and social networks.

#12. Photographer

If you are a shutterbug with decent photography equipment, then the job of photographer would be perfect for you. This creative role allows you to choose the niche that resonates with you most—wedding, concert, event, sports, or stock photography, to name a few.

In addition to an eye for detail and a bit of creativity and imagination, you don’t need any formal education. Yet, some photographers attend special programs and courses where they learn about composition and retouching, as well as other elements and photography skills crucial for high-quality photographs.

The photographers’ salary revolves around a median annual pay of $42,520. The employment of photographers is expected to rise by 2% in the next ten years, meaning that close to 12,700 job openings are projected every year.

If you would like to work as a photographer, start with a well-written resume, and then check out job opportunities on platforms such as Upwork, FlexJobs, Indeed, and even our job board at Resume.co.

#13. Plumber

A plumber is the first person you will reach out to when you experience issues with pipes, sinks, toilets, or water heaters. They install, repair, and maintain the entire drainage and sewage system.

Prospective plumbers may go to a vocational school to obtain a diploma or certificate. Alternatively, they can attend apprenticeship programs lasting four to five years to gain all the necessary plumbing skills.

The job of a plumber is one of the 6-figure jobs without a degree. Experienced and senior workers may earn upward of $100,000, while the median annual salary is $62,970.

You can find job opportunities via various job boards and platforms or directly at companies related to plumbing. With a 4% positive job outlook and around 44,000 new openings each year, there should be plenty of opportunities.

#14. Flight Attendant

Flight attendants are an essential part of the cabin crew that interacts with passengers the most. Their duties are to make sure that passengers are comfortable, respond to their questions, and provide services to them. However, flight attendants also have to be ready to respond promptly to any issues during the flight.

This is one of the highest-paying jobs without a degree for women. It doesn’t require a postsecondary education, so a high school diploma or GED will be enough. Flight attendants need to take a training course provided by the airline company that hired them. Plus, they need to have a certificate issued by the FAA.

Flight attendants have a median annual salary of $67,130, with senior crew members earning more. In the next decade, this job is expected to increase by 9%, which is faster compared to other occupations, and results in around 19,800 openings each year.

#15. Electrician

An electrician is in charge of installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems in buildings, factories, or retail stores. The common duties of electricians involve installing wiring systems, outlets, and light switches, as well as replacing the wiring when necessary, along with inspecting circuit breakers.

In terms of formal education, while some may have an associate degree, most electricians typically have a high school diploma or its equivalent. What matters most for this position is a four or five-year apprenticeship program where prospective electricians will acquire all the necessary skills.

Electricians usually earn around $62,350 annually. Yet, over time, their salary can increase up to $100,000. The job outlook is projected to grow by 9% in the following decade. Multiple job platforms, such as Indeed, Rigzone, and ZipRecruiter, offer numerous vacancies for this position. All you need is a good electrician resume.

#16. Hearing Aid Specialist

A hearing aid specialist’s duty is to assess the level of a patient’s hearing loss using different tests and then come up with the best solution to meet their needs and lifestyle. The hearing aid technology is delicate and requires a lot of adjustments and maintenance.

One way to become a hearing aid specialist is to obtain an academic degree in fitting and dispensing hearing aids. Another alternative is to gain on-the-job training through courses organized by the International Hearing Society.

The median salary that hearing aid specialists can earn revolves around $58,670, with the possibility of growing upward of $85,870. The demand for this position is projected to increase by 18% by 2034, which is much faster compared to other occupations.

Everyone interested in this position is invited to check out vacancies at audiology companies or those dealing with hearing instruments, such as Oticon, WS Audiology, etc.

#17. Chef

Chefs and head cooks supervise food preparation in restaurants, hotels, and other dining establishments, sometimes even private homes. They also issue instructions and directions to the kitchen staff, so you could say their role is managerial.

Chefs may have some postsecondary education, but they typically have a high school diploma or its equivalent. Some may receive formal culinary education, while others may acquire the required knowledge via apprenticeship or on-the-job training. It usually takes a minimum of five years of experience to become a chef.

The average salary of a chef is estimated at $60,990, but experienced professionals in renowned establishments can earn much more. The job outlook is more than positive, with projected growth of 7% in the upcoming decade.

#18. Project Coordinator

The project coordinator’s duties involve organizing various parts of the project and making sure they run smoothly. They are also in charge of managing the team, their time, and resources. This role requires big-picture thinking, attention to detail, and creative problem-solving.

Even though a college degree is desirable, it’s not necessary. What matters more is keen organizational, leadership, and people skills, as well as time management skills, so a high school diploma or an associate degree will do. Prior experience in the field you would be managing is a must.

While the Bureau of Labor Statistics doesn’t gather information specific to project coordinators, it categorizes them as business operations specialists. This means they have a median annual salary of $79,590, with professionals in the 90th percentile earning upward of $140,300.

Interested in this role? You can look for opportunities on our job board or apply to companies advertising vacancies.

#19. Makeup Artist

Makeup is not strictly related to beauty salons only; makeup artists are wanted in theaters and are an absolute must in the fashion and entertainment industries. A theatrical makeup artist is among the highest-paying jobs without a degree, as these artists receive lucrative remuneration for their services.

Makeup artists apply makeup in order to present a specific period or setting that enhances the role. They don’t need a university degree for this, but they do need to be highly skilled and precise. Plus, they should be familiar with the variety of materials they use in order to achieve the desired look.

People working as makeup artists can make an average of about $47,390, with senior artists making even more. The demand for this position is expected to grow by 8% in the upcoming several years, with about 600 job openings each year until 2034.

If this position sounds alluring to you, and you have the required experience, check out job platforms such as Indeed, SimplyHired, or ZipRecruiter, as well as platforms related to performing arts like Careers.Broadway.

#20. Executive Assistant

An executive assistant supports the C-suite in public offices or private companies. They are responsible for handling emails, calendars, and appointments, as well as making travel arrangements. Sometimes, they may act as a receptionist.

To become an executive assistant, you will need a degree no higher than a high school diploma or its equivalent. Yet, you will need to have good organizational, computer, and communication skills.

On average, executive assistants earn around $70,310 annually; however, their salary can be upwards of $104,000. In the ten-year period (2024-2034), the job of an executive secretary is projected to see little to no change.

Platforms such as Workable, Indeed, and Upwork are ideal for searching for job opportunities once you’ve created a strong executive assistant resume. Alternatively, you can check out different companies’ websites to see whether they have vacancies for this position.

5 Highest Paying Tech Jobs Without a Degree

If you don’t have a degree and you want to enter the tech industry, here are some of the best jobs for the future without a degree:

5 Highest-Paying Remote Jobs Without a Degree

Those looking for increased flexibility and better work-life balance should look into high-paying remote jobs, such as:

Note that earnings for remote roles vary significantly. They depend on many factors, including the company, the employer’s location, the employee’s experience, and negotiated terms.

4 Resume Tips for Job Seekers Without a Degree

If you don’t have a degree, you can adjust your resume to better emphasize other qualifications, presenting yourself as a competent professional that way. Here are four tips to help you achieve that:

Land a High-Paying Job with Resume.co

If you’re in the market for a high-paying job, regardless of whether you have a degree or not, you need a strong and cohesive application package. At Resume.co, we developed a robust, AI-powered resume and cover letter generator that can help you emphasize your key strengths, even with a modest academic background.

Final Thoughts

It’s a common misconception that you need a higher degree to earn a good salary. In reality, the contemporary job market is increasingly shifting toward skill-based hiring. As a result, you can find some of the highest-paying jobs without a degree in various industries, ranging from aviation and tech to construction and skilled trades.

Employers typically look for quantifiable work experience, professional certifications and licenses, and sought-after skill sets. By emphasizing these elements on your resume and cover letter, you’ll present yourself as an adept professional, and you’ll be well on your way to a six-figure (or higher) career path.

Highest Paying Jobs Without a Degree FAQs

#1. Can you make six figures without college?

Yes, you can make six figures without college. There are many lucrative occupations you can pursue through specialized certifications, apprenticeships, and hands-on experience. For example, air traffic controllers, commercial pilots, elevator installers, and power plant operators frequently earn over $100,000. Performance-based roles also offer nearly uncapped earning potential.

#2. What certifications pay the most?

Certifications that pay the most are generally in the tech industry (e.g., IT and cybersecurity certifications). Outside the field of information technology, aviation licenses for commercial pilots lead to lucrative opportunities, as well as licenses for specialized trades (e.g., electricians, plumbers) or commercial drivers.

#3. What is the easiest high-paying job without a degree?

The easiest high-paying job without a degree is subjective, but common examples include flight attendants and real estate agents. These easy jobs that pay well have relatively low technical barriers to entry compared to occupations with similar earnings potential. While they require passing specialized exams, jobs mainly rely on communication and interpersonal skills.

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