10 Highest-Paying Jobs You Can Get Without a Degree

Enjoying work-life balance, financial success and a meaningful career doesn’t always depend on a college degree. While a degree can lead to more opportunities, you can still take on exciting and high-paying roles by having a high school diploma or equivalent.

From aviation to sales, there are opportunities to make as high as a six-figure income regardless of the industry you choose. Keep reading to learn more about the highest-paying jobs without a degree required, as identified by Resume Genius.

• Median annual salary: $102,420
• Avoid if: You are claustrophobic, have a fear of heights, dislike dark settings, dislike working with electrical systems, have limited mobility or have back, neck or shoulder pain.

Elevator and escalator mechanics have physically demanding jobs that involve moving through tight and enclosed spaces, working with electricity and machinery and having knowledge of power tools. To become an elevator mechanic, you must have a minimum of a high school degree or GED, complete an apprenticeship and apply for a license, depending on your state.

• Median annual salary: $99,200
• Avoid if: You are disorganized or lack managerial skills.

These managers coordinate and oversee the flow of goods and people to keep operations moving smoothly and on time. To get this job, you typically need to work your way up from an entry-level position in logistics. Getting certain certifications can also help you land the role.

• Median annual salary: $85,420
• Avoid if: You have mobility issues, do not have a solid understanding or desire to learn about electrical systems and safety measures or have limited visibility.

These professionals keep our power lines up and running. Responsibilities can include restoring power after storms, replacing worn or damaged lines and performing routine maintenance. No degree is needed, though you will need to go through on-the-job training.

• Median annual salary: $75,400
• Avoid if: You dislike high-energy, hands-on work.

These mechanics and technicians install, inspect and repair the systems that keep aircrafts running safely. To obtain this job, you typically need credentials from a Federal Aviation Administration-approved program.

• Median annual salary: $74,910
• Avoid if: You are squeamish and unwilling to work irregular hours.

If you have a knack for analyzing evidence and problem solving, you may be able to translate these skills into a job as a criminal investigator. While not all positions require a college degree, some roles might.

• Median annual salary: $73,580
• Avoid if: You have mobility and vision issues, cannot sit still for extended periods or take certain medications.

Locomotive engineers drive passenger and freight trains, ensuring that trips are safe and on time. In addition to obtaining a high school diploma, you need to pass vision and hearing tests and earn certification from the Federal Railroad Administration.

• Median annual salary: $73,080
• Avoid if: You don’t enjoy talking to people and are unable or unwilling to travel to meet with clients and/or attend trade shows.

These professionals sell products from wholesalers or manufacturers to other businesses and organizations. Experience in sales or customer service can help you to thrive in this position.

• Median annual salary: $70,280
• Avoid if: You are not athletic or competitive, do not like to travel and are unwilling or unable to work irregular hours.

If you have the right skills, you can make a living as a professional athlete. No degree is required, but playing sports professionally requires intense training, dedication to your craft and an innate athletic ability.

• Median annual salary: $68,370
• Avoid if: You prefer a stable schedule, are not in excellent physical condition, or have a fear of heights, turbulence or flying.

Flight attendants work on airplanes with the primary goal of keeping passengers safe. These highly trained professionals ensure compliance with federal and international aviation safety regulations. They secure the flight deck, have CPR training and assist passengers throughout the flight. To become a flight attendant, you must be at least 18 years old and receive a certification from the Federal Aviation Administration.

• Median annual salary: $67,700
• Avoid if: You prefer an office or desk working environment, have limited mobility and do not have strong communication skills or attention to detail.

These inspectors evaluate construction projects to ensure they meet local codes, zoning rules and safety standards. This role is ideal for those who are detail-oriented and have prior experience working in construction.

Hiba Boutary contributed to the reporting for this article.

Editor’s note: Median salaries were sourced from Resume Genius and are accurate as of Jan. 2, 2025.