17 Legit High-Paying Jobs That Do Not Require Secondary Education
Growing up, many people are told that higher education is the only route toward financial security, but this couldn't be further from the truth.
Our country is filled with people who have found different routes to success, many of which don't involve a secondary education (which is becoming more difficult to afford by the year).
Here are just some jobs where you can earn a good living without needing a higher education degree.
1.Ironworkers
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, ironworkers earn, on average, $27.48 per hour, or $57,160 per year.
2.Radio, Cellular, and Tower Equipment Installers and Repairers
In May 2021, installers made $60,360 on average, with a projected industry growth rate of 6%.
3.Food Service Managers
Food service workers catch a lot of flack, but getting to the management level can make a big difference and often only requires on-the-job training. Annually, they make an average of $59,440 per year or $28.58 per hour.
4.Rotary Drill Operators
Rotary drill operators use machinery to remove oil and gas underground and make an average of $56,380 annually.
5.Farm Labor Contractors
Being the person who recruits and handles the hiring of seasonal or temporary agriculture laborers can come with some unique responsibilities, but on average, it will bring in about $47,770 annually.
6.Oil and Gas Service Operators
Working in oil and gas service operating machinery brings in an average annual salary of $48,410.
7.Floor Layers
Installing flooring, including tile and stone, can be an easy career to get into and make an average of $47,310 per year.
8.Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters work in residential and commercial spaces to install and maintain pipes and related systems. The downside is hours that can be all over the place, but you can make an average of $59,880 annually.
9.Flight Attendants
Flight attendants have some unique perks and pits to their jobs, but if you think it's a lifestyle that can suit you, it's worth considering. On average nationally, they bring in $61,640 per year.
10.Surgical Assistants and Technologists
Be the person who helps prep a room for different medical procedures. Across the country, surgical assistants are making an average of $48,510 per year.
11.Makeup Artists for Theatrical/Live Performances
If you have a flair for makeup, it can take you far in the theater and live performance world. On average, theater makeup artists across the country are bringing in $134,750 annually.
12.Power Plant Operators, Distributors, and Dispatchers
Though these jobs are becoming more scarce as different energy sources are explored, managing and maintaining these power systems can bring in an average of $94,790 per year.
13.Elevator Installers and Repairers
For many, an apprenticeship period is all that stands in the way of installing, maintaining, and fixing elevators, escalators, moving walkways, and other lift systems. Those in the profession are making an average of $97,860 annually.
14.Subway Operator
If there's a subway or other train in your area, on-the-job training may be available to become an operator or conductor. The average income for these positions is $81,180 per year.
15.Postmasters and Mail Superintendents
Taking on the work of operational, administrative, management, and support services of a US post office can earn you an average of $80,250 annually.
16.Boilermakers
Installing and maintaining large containers full of hot liquids and gasses can be hard work, but it can also earn you approximately $64,290 per year on average nationwide.
17.Police and Detectives
A difficult line of work to enter but a lucrative one, police and detectives make a national average of $99,330 annually. Depending on your area, secondary education may not be a requirement.
