Looking for a well-paying career without spending years in college? Many jobs offer salaries over $60,000 without requiring a bachelor’s degree. These opportunities span various industries and often value skills and experience over formal education.
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Trade and Technical Careers Over $60k
Skilled Trades
1. Electricians solve electrical problems in homes and businesses. They earn a median salary of $60,040 per year. A typical day includes installing wiring, troubleshooting issues, and reading blueprints. To become an electrician, you might complete a 4-5 year apprenticeship program.
2. Plumbers install and repair water systems. With a median income of $59,880, many experienced plumbers earn well over $75,000. Daily work involves fixing leaks, installing fixtures, and responding to emergency calls. The path to becoming a plumber usually starts with a 4-year apprenticeship.
3. HVAC Technicians maintain heating and cooling systems, earning about $48,630, with senior techs making $65,000+. They spend their days installing equipment, performing maintenance, and diagnosing problems. Training typically comes through technical school programs and on-the-job experience.
4. Welders join metal components together and can earn $44,190, with specialized welders making $70,000+. Their workday involves reading blueprints, cutting materials, and creating strong bonds between metals. Certification programs at technical schools offer entry into this field.
5. Construction Managers oversee building projects with median earnings of $97,180. A typical day includes coordinating workers, checking progress, and ensuring safety standards. Most start as skilled workers who gain experience and complete management training.
Technical Positions
6. Air Traffic Controllers guide aircraft safely, earning a median salary of $129,750. Their workdays involve monitoring radar screens, communicating with pilots, and maintaining safe distances between planes. The FAA Academy provides the necessary training after passing entrance exams.
7. Radiation Therapists administer radiation treatments to cancer patients and earn around $86,850. Daily responsibilities include operating treatment machines, following safety protocols, and keeping detailed records. Most complete a 2-year associate degree program.
8. Electrical Power-Line Installers maintain the power grid with median earnings of $78,310. They climb poles, install equipment, and respond to outages. Training combines apprenticeships with technical education.
9. Computer Support Specialists solve technical problems and earn about $55,510, with experienced specialists making $70,000+. Their days involve troubleshooting issues, setting up systems, and helping users understand technology. Many enter the field with certifications like CompTIA A+.
10. Elevator Installers maintain and repair elevators, earning a median of $88,540. Daily work includes testing safety features, replacing worn parts, and following strict regulations. Most begin through 4-year apprenticeship programs.
Creative and Media Occupations Over $60k
Design and Multimedia
11. Web Designer ($65,000-$85,000) – Creates visually appealing websites and digital interfaces. Daily work involves collaborating with clients, sketching layouts, coding in HTML/CSS, and testing site functionality. You can enter this field through technical courses, building a portfolio, and obtaining certifications.
12. Commercial Photographer ($60,000-$100,000) – Shoots product photos, corporate events, and advertising imagery. A typical day includes setting up lighting, directing subjects, capturing images, and editing photos. Getting started requires equipment investment, apprenticeships, and building a strong portfolio.
13. Multimedia Artist ($72,000-$90,000) – Develops animations and visual effects for games, movies, and digital platforms. Daily tasks involve drawing storyboards, creating 3D models, and refining animations. You might begin with specialized training programs and internships.
14. UI/UX Designer ($75,000-$110,000) – Designs user-friendly digital interfaces and experiences. Work includes user research, wireframing, prototyping, and testing. Many enter this field through bootcamps and creating sample projects.
15. Motion Graphics Designer ($68,000-$95,000) – Creates animated visual elements for television, online videos, and advertising. Typical workdays involve storyboarding, animation, and client revisions. Technical schools and online courses offer entry paths into this career.
Content Creation and Production
16. Video Editor ($62,000-$90,000) – Assembles footage into cohesive stories for film, television, and digital platforms. Daily work involves organizing clips, adding effects, adjusting audio, and collaborating with directors. You can start through technical programs and assistant editor positions.
17. Sound Engineer ($60,000-$85,000) – Records, mixes, and enhances audio for music, film, and broadcasts. A typical day includes setting up equipment, recording sessions, mixing tracks, and troubleshooting technical issues. Technical schools and apprenticeships provide pathways into this field.
18. Digital Content Producer ($65,000-$95,000) – Manages the creation and distribution of online content. Work involves planning content calendars, coordinating shoots, writing scripts, and analyzing performance metrics. Building a portfolio of personal projects helps secure entry-level positions.
19. Voice Actor ($60,000-$100,000+) – Performs voice work for commercials, animation, video games, and audiobooks. Daily activities include auditioning, recording sessions, and vocal practice. You can begin with vocal training, creating demo reels, and signing with talent agencies.
20. Art Director ($80,000-$120,000) – Oversees visual style and image of publications, product packaging, and advertisements. Typical days involve team management, concept development, and client presentations. This role typically requires several years of experience in related design positions.
Information Technology Jobs Over $60k
IT Support and Cybersecurity
Several IT support and cybersecurity roles pay over $60,000 without requiring a degree:
21. IT Support Specialist – $62,000-$75,000 Troubleshoots computer problems, installs software, and helps users with technical issues. A typical day includes answering help desk tickets, remotely accessing computers, and documenting solutions.
22. Cybersecurity Analyst – $70,000-$95,000 Monitors networks for security breaches and implements protective measures. Daily tasks involve reviewing security logs, testing systems for vulnerabilities, and updating security protocols.
23. Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst – $65,000-$85,000 Watches for security incidents in real-time. The workday consists of monitoring alerts, investigating suspicious activities, and escalating serious threats.
24. Computer Forensics Technician – $68,000-$90,000 Recovers and examines data from computers related to crimes. Each day might involve collecting digital evidence, documenting findings, and preparing reports for legal proceedings.
25. IT Security Specialist – $75,000-$98,000 Implements security measures to protect company data. Daily responsibilities include configuring firewalls, conducting security audits, and responding to incidents.
Network and Systems Administration
Network and systems roles can be lucrative options without a bachelor’s degree:
26. Network Administrator – $65,000-$85,000 Maintains computer networks, troubleshoots issues, and ensures connectivity. A typical day includes monitoring network performance, adding new users, and updating network equipment.
27. Systems Administrator – $70,000-$90,000 Manages servers and operating systems for organizations. Daily tasks involve installing updates, monitoring system performance, and solving technical problems.
28. Cloud Support Specialist – $68,000-$88,000 Helps companies use cloud platforms like AWS or Azure. The workday typically includes configuring cloud resources, troubleshooting access issues, and optimizing cloud costs.
29. Network Operations Technician – $62,000-$78,000 Monitors network health and resolves connectivity problems. Daily responsibilities include checking network alerts, troubleshooting outages, and performing routine maintenance.
30. Database Administrator – $75,000-$95,000 Manages company databases to ensure data availability and security. A typical day involves optimizing database performance, creating backups, and resolving access issues.
Sales and Marketing Positions Over $60k
Real Estate and Insurance Sales
31. Real Estate Agent: Helps clients buy, sell, and rent properties. Agents typically earn $70,000-$100,000 annually through commissions. A typical day includes property showings, market research, and client meetings. You can become an agent by completing a pre-licensing course and passing your state’s exam.
32. Insurance Sales Agent: Sells policies and provides customer service to clients. The median annual salary ranges from $65,000-$85,000. Agents spend their days developing leads, explaining policies, and processing applications. Getting started requires passing state licensing exams.
33. Commercial Sales Representative: Sells products or services to businesses. Their income often reaches $75,000-$110,000 with commissions. Daily work involves meeting prospects, giving presentations, and following up on leads. Many begin with on-the-job training programs.
34. Wholesale Sales Manager: Oversees sales team and strategies for wholesale distribution. These professionals typically earn $80,000-$120,000. They spend time analyzing sales data, coaching team members, and meeting with key accounts. Experience in sales positions typically leads to this role.
35. Territory Sales Manager: Manages sales within a specific geographic region. Median earnings range from $75,000-$95,000. The job includes travel, relationship building, and performance tracking. Previous sales success often qualifies someone for this position.
Digital Marketing and E-commerce
36. Social Media Manager: Creates and manages content across platforms. These professionals earn $60,000-$80,000. Their day involves content planning, community engagement, and analytics review. You might start by taking certification courses and building a portfolio.
37. PPC (Pay-Per-Click) Specialist: Manages online advertising campaigns. Typical earnings range from $65,000-$90,000. Daily tasks include keyword research, budget management, and performance analysis. Many learn through online courses and certification programs.
38. SEO Specialist: Optimizes websites to increase visibility in search engines. Specialists typically earn $65,000-$85,000. Their work includes keyword research, content optimization, and technical SEO implementation. Many are self-taught or learn through specialized courses.
39. E-commerce Manager: Oversees online sales operations. These managers earn $70,000-$100,000. They focus on website optimization, inventory management, and sales strategy. Experience in online retail often leads to these positions.
40. Affiliate Marketing Manager: Develops and manages partnership programs. Annual earnings typically reach $65,000-$90,000. Daily responsibilities include recruiting partners, tracking performance, and optimizing commission structures. Many start in entry-level marketing roles and advance with experience.
Healthcare and Wellness Jobs Over $60k
Medical Technician Roles
41. Diagnostic Medical Sonographers use special equipment to create images of the body’s organs and tissues. They earn approximately $77,740 per year and typically work in hospitals or clinics. Their day involves preparing patients for procedures, operating imaging equipment, and analyzing the images.
42. Radiologic Technologists take X-rays and administer nonradioactive materials into patients’ bloodstreams for diagnostic purposes. With a median salary of $66,490, they spend their days positioning patients, operating equipment, and maintaining patient records.
43. MRI Technologists operate magnetic resonance imaging scanners to create diagnostic images. Earning around $77,360 annually, they prepare patients for procedures and ensure safety protocols are followed.
44. Cardiovascular Technologists perform tests on pulmonary or cardiovascular systems. With salaries averaging $65,620, their typical day includes monitoring patients’ heart rates and helping physicians during cardiac procedures.
45. Surgical Technologists assist in surgical operations by preparing operating rooms and arranging equipment. They make approximately $62,870 yearly and work closely with surgical teams.
Therapeutic Services
46. Massage Therapists treat clients by using touch to manipulate muscles and soft tissues. Top-earning practitioners make $75,000+ annually, especially those working with medical practices or elite athletes. Their day involves consulting with clients about their needs and performing various massage techniques.
47. Respiratory Therapists care for patients with breathing disorders. Without a four-year degree, they can earn around $68,190 per year. They spend their days evaluating patients, performing diagnostic tests, and managing ventilators.
48. Physical Therapy Assistants work under physical therapists to help patients recover from injuries. With a median salary of $61,180, they guide patients through exercises and document progress.
49. Occupational Therapy Assistants help patients develop or recover daily living skills. Earning approximately $63,790 annually, they implement treatment plans designed by occupational therapists.
50. Dental Hygienists clean teeth, examine patients for oral diseases, and provide preventive dental care. They make around $78,110 yearly and typically work in dental offices examining patients and cleaning teeth.
Transportation and Logistics Careers Over $60k
Commercial Driving
Commercial driving jobs can pay surprisingly well, especially for specialized roles.
51. Truck Drivers who handle long-haul routes typically earn $65,000-$85,000 annually. They transport goods across the country, manage delivery schedules, and maintain logbooks. Their workday involves pre-trip inspections, driving 8-11 hours, and coordinating with dispatch.
52. Train Engineers operate locomotives and can earn $70,000-$90,000 per year. They control train speed and braking, monitor systems, and follow signal instructions. A typical day includes safety checks, communicating with dispatchers, and maintaining consistent speeds through various terrains.
53. Delivery Service Owners who run their own routes can make $75,000-$120,000. They manage package delivery, build client relationships, and oversee small teams. Starting requires purchasing delivery vehicles and securing contracts with shipping companies.
54. Boat Captains working on commercial vessels earn $80,000-$100,000. They navigate waterways, manage crews, and ensure cargo safety. Work might involve two-week shifts followed by time off.
Logistics Management
Logistics management roles focus on coordinating the movement of goods efficiently.
55. Transportation Managers earn $70,000-$95,000 overseeing fleet operations. They schedule deliveries, monitor driver compliance, and optimize routes. Their day typically involves morning team meetings, tracking shipments, and solving delivery problems.
56. Warehouse Managers make $65,000-$85,000 supervising distribution centers. They coordinate inventory, oversee staff, and maintain safety standards. A typical day includes morning team briefings, inventory checks, and performance monitoring.
57. Supply Chain Coordinators earn $62,000-$78,000 managing the flow of materials. They track shipments, coordinate with suppliers, and solve supply disruptions. Experience in shipping plus logistics certifications can qualify candidates for these positions.
58. Freight Brokers connect shippers with carriers and can earn $70,000-$100,000+ with commission. They negotiate rates, track shipments, and build client relationships. Starting requires obtaining a broker authority license and developing industry connections.
59. Air Cargo Supervisors make $68,000-$85,000 overseeing airport freight operations. They manage loading teams, ensure weight distribution, and maintain security protocols.
60. Port Operations Managers earn $75,000-$95,000 coordinating maritime shipping activities. They oversee cargo loading/unloading, manage customs documentation, and ensure compliance with international shipping regulations. Their responsibilities include scheduling dock workers, liaising with vessel captains, and troubleshooting logistical bottlenecks in harbor operations.
About Median Salary and Job Growth
Median salary represents the middle point where half of workers in an occupation earn more and half earn less. This number gives you a realistic picture of potential earnings.
For example, air traffic controllers earn a median salary of $127,920 without requiring a bachelor’s degree.
Job growth indicates how many new positions might become available in the coming years. Fields with positive growth percentages offer better long-term security.
High-growth fields without degree requirements include:
- Wind turbine technicians (44% growth)
- Solar installers (27% growth)
- Commercial pilots (6% growth)