Only about one third of the adult population of America has a college degree. Of course, the fact of having a degree doesn’t automatically guarantee a job, but the perception is that it helps secure a higher paying job.
Does that mean that all of those not in possession of a degree are condemned to take the worst and lowest paid jobs?
Not necessarily!
Life Daily has discovered that you can find good paying jobs without a college degree.
Occupational profiles from the Bureau of Labor Statistics were reviewed by 24/7 Wall St. These showed that there are hundreds of thousands of high paying jobs which require nothing more than a high school diploma
But you can’t just jump into them fresh from school; you have to start at the bottom and learn the work before you can reach the top earnings level.
Many of the jobs we’ve selected are well paid to compensate for the dangerous or unfavorable conditions associated with them.
For example, subway operators spend most of their working day underground. Elevator repairers and nuclear power plant operators work in potentially life-threatening positions, and the salary level reflects that.
So, here are the best-paying jobs you can get without a college degree; you only need a high school diploma:
1. Airline Pilots, Copilots and Flight Engineers
> Median annual income: $114,200
It’s true that most pilots today have earned a bachelor’s degree, but many still gain their qualifications from the military or by attending flight schools. Professional pilots need to have a commercial pilot’s license and an instrument rating, meaning they are able to fly in conditions of poor visibility solely on instruments.
Whilst the median annual wage for pilots, copilots and flight engineers is $114,200, one in four workers in these occupations has earned more than $154,000.
2. Elevator Installers and Repairers
> Median annual income: $76,650
Obviously. working conditions are not good for elevator installers and repairers and they spend a lot of time in dark, cramped spaces. However, the skills and knowledge they need are fairly advanced.
Usually, a four-year apprenticeship is required, and candidates must learn electrical and electronic theory, mathematics and applied physics — and there are thousands of hours of paid on-the-job training. Elevator installers and repairers also need to stay in shape due to the physical demands of the job.
3. Nuclear Power Reactor Operators
> Median annual income: $74,990
Surprisingly, considering level of maths and science required, a post-secondary education is not mandatory. However, operators are required to undergo extensive and long-term on-site training, in order to obtain an operator’s license.
Once licensed, they have to pass a plant-operating exam every year and renew their license every six years. The top 10% of workers make over $97,000 annually.
4. Detectives and Criminal Investigators
> Median annual income: $74,300
Detective and criminal investigators frequently begin their careers as police officers. In addition to the formal requirements, an excellent detective will possess qualities that are more difficult to teach, such as strong communication skills, empathy, leadership skills and good judgment.
Detectives and criminal investigators often work under conditions that can be physically demanding and stressful, and they must be prepared to handle potentially dangerous situations.
5. Power distributors and dispatchers
> Median annual income: $71,690
This job involves monitoring the movement of electricity from generating stations through to its eventual lines of distribution. The dispatcher must be prepared to re-route the electricity in an emergency. Care must be taken at all times against shock or burning. There is extensive on-the-job training and licensing.
6. Fashion Designers
> Median annual income: $62,860
The median salary is a mathematical calculation but there are large differences. For example, the top 10% of designers can make more than $126,290, while the bottom 10% make less than $34,110.
Creativity is the most important quality for this occupation, more than a college degree. When starting, a designer usually undergoes an apprenticeship, or is employed as an assistant.
7. Subway and streetcar operators
>Median annual income: $62,730.
The pay for this occupation is good due to the flexible working hours and the constant need for safety. Subway operators must be able to drive the train manually, but usually are only involved in starting and stopping. Good powers of observation are essential, and streetcar drivers must obey traffic laws, collect fares and regularly interact with passengers.
Now that you understand that it is possible to get a good-paying jobs without a college degree, which one would you choose?
Just remember, not everyone can be an airline pilot – you may have to settle for something less.
Do you think it is important to have a college degree? What is your experience – with or without – one?
Share your thoughts by using the comments feed below.
