Choosing a career path is a significant decision that should align with your interests and goals. While a college degree can open doors, it’s not the only route to a successful career. Many high-paying jobs are available that don’t require a four-year degree.
Here we have explored top jobs for men without a degree, drawing on PEW Research Center analysis of the Current Population Survey, administered jointly by the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the U.S. Census Bureau.
Whether you’re just starting or looking for a career change, this list offers valuable insights for finding a fulfilling and financially rewarding path without a college degree.
Drivers/Sales Workers and Truck Drivers
The job involves delivering packages and goods within local areas or cities. It is physically demanding due to lifting, carrying, and long periods behind the wheel. A high school diploma or equivalent is preferred, but some positions may not necessitate it. On-the-job training is typically one month or less and a valid driver’s license with a clean record is mandatory. The job market is expected to grow 10% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than average for all occupations due to e-commerce.
The median annual wage for driver/sales workers: $35,420
The median annual wage for light truck drivers: $42,470
Construction Laborers
Construction laborers and helpers assist skilled craftspeople on building sites. They handle materials and tools, clean work areas and equipment, and contribute to the construction process. These jobs are physically demanding, requiring working outdoors in all weather, and involve full-time schedules. While formal education is not mandatory, some employers prefer a high school diploma or an equivalent.
The median annual wage: $44,310
Laborers and Freight, Stock and Material Movers
Laborers and freight, stock, and material movers manually handle and transport goods, materials, and freight. These jobs involve full-time schedules and may require overnight shifts to accommodate around-the-clock operations. Employers typically prefer applicants with the physical ability to handle the demands of the work. While no formal education is required for laborers and freight, stock, and material movers, on-the-job training typically lasts less than a month. New hires learn safety protocols, often based on OSHA standards, from supervisors or experienced workers. Truck drivers hauling heavy loads may need a commercial driver’s license (CDL).
The median annual wage: $36,770
Managers, NEC (including postmasters)
Individuals in this job role oversee and coordinate the operational, administrative, and support functions of various departments within organizations that don’t fit into a specific management category. This can include roles in post offices. Their responsibilities often involve managing staff and budgets to ensure smooth daily operations. While Postmasters and Mail Superintendents work in various industries, most are employed by the federal government’s Postal Service.
Median Annual Wage For Postmasters: $ 88,670
First-line Supervisors of Sales Workers
First-line Supervisors of Sales Workers read and coordinate the day-to-day activities of retail sales workers within a store or department. Responsibilities often include supervising staff, setting sales goals, and performing managerial tasks like budgeting and scheduling, in addition to core supervisory duties.
First-line supervisors of retail sales workers are employed across various industries, with the highest concentrations in shoe retailers (13.19%), Clothing and Clothing Accessories Retailers (9.70%), and gasoline stations (10.95%). While average pay varies by industry, some supervisors in automobile dealerships, computer systems design, and certain manufacturing sectors can earn significantly more than the national median.
Median Annual Wage: $ 46,730
Chefs and Cooks
Chefs and head cooks oversee daily food prep in restaurants and other food service establishments. They often work long hours, including early mornings, late evenings, weekends, and holidays. The work can be fast-paced and stressful. While some chefs attend culinary programs, most learn through work experience or apprenticeships. In the US, chefs usually require a high school diploma or GED along with relevant work experience to enter the field.
Median Pay: $58,920 per year
Retail Salespersons
Retail salespersons assist customers in stores, helping them find products and complete purchases. They answer questions, operate cash registers, and may bag or package merchandise. Formal education is generally not required, but some employers may prefer product knowledge or customer service training.
Median Pay: $33,680 per year
Carpenters
Carpenters build, repair, and install wooden structures and frameworks, from indoor projects like cabinets to outdoor construction like bridges. They often learn through apprenticeships or on-the-job training. The job market for carpenters is expected to show little or no growth by 2032. However, there will still be many job openings (around 79,500 annually) due to retirements and workers leaving the field for other careers.
Median Pay: $56,350 per year
Electricians
Electricians are responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of electrical systems in buildings and other structures. The work can involve evenings, weekends, and overtime due to full-time schedules. While some electricians attend technical schools, most learn through apprenticeships. Licensing is required in most states. The electrician job market is expected to grow 6% by 2032, with many openings due to retirements and career changes.
Median Pay: $61,590 per year
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics
Automotive service technicians and mechanics diagnose, repair, and maintain cars and light trucks. While they use computers to identify issues, the job often involves working with greasy parts and tools in uncomfortable positions. Employers prefer postsecondary automotive programs, and certifications are commonly required after employment. The job market for this industry is expected to grow 2% from 2022 to 2032, about as fast as the average for all occupations. This growth is attributed to the increasing number of vehicles on the road and the ever-more complex technology used in modern cars.
Median Pay: $47,770 per year