The best-paying jobs in Virginia without a degree include commercial pilots ($100,000+), power plant operators ($80,000+), and transportation inspectors ($70,000+). Other high-paying roles include elevator installers, real estate brokers, and construction supervisors, often earning $60,000 or more with experience and certifications.
Virginia has many high paying job opportunities for those without a college degree. Community health workers and community associations play a big role in promoting health and helping residents and are example of the well paying careers that don’t necessarily require a degree. Many of these jobs require vocational training, apprenticeships or industry certifications.
Based on the search results, here’s a table of some of the best-paying jobs in Virginia that don’t require a degree:
| Job Title | Median Annual Salary (USD) |
|---|---|
| Commercial Pilot | $127,390 |
| Media and Communication Equipment Worker | $104,040 |
| Construction Manager | $102,870 |
| HVAC/R Technician | $62,400+ |
| Real Estate Agent | $50,000 – $100,000+ |
| Truck Driver | $45,000 – $70,000 |
| Sales Representative | $40,000 – $80,000+ |
| Warehouse/Logistics Supervisor | $40,000 – $70,000+ |
Job Market Overview
The job market in Virginia is booming with many industries growing and in high demand for skilled workers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics the state’s economy is creating a huge need for skilled workers to support industries like transportation and healthcare. The Hampton Roads Business Journal highlights data trends for in demand job fields in Virginia, noting the need for workers in Cyber Security & IT, Physical Therapy & Occupational Therapy, and Electrical Technology.
This hot job market offers many opportunities for individuals to find great careers without a college degree, especially in roles that support these growing industries.
Commercial Pilot
Salary: $100,000+
Requirements: High school diploma, pilot training, FAA certification
Commercial pilots fly cargo and passenger aircraft without a college degree. Employers look for candidates who complete pilot training programs and get a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification. Completing these training programs is key to making sure pilots are fully prepared for the job. This job requires strong decision making skills, quick reflexes and the ability to handle high pressure situations.Salary:
Transportation Inspector
Salary: $70,000+
Requirements: Specialized training, experience in vehicle safety
Transportation inspectors review and verify vehicles, aircraft or cargo shipments to ensure safety and compliance. Many start as mechanics or technicians and gain specialized training through certification programs.
Elevator Installer and Repair Technician
Salary: $80,000+
Requirements: Apprenticeship, trade certification
Elevator technicians install, repair and maintain elevators, escalators and lifts. This job requires hands on training through an apprenticeship program which is usually 4 years long. Virginia has a high demand for this profession making it a good choice.
Real Estate Agent
Salary: $50,000 – $100,000+
Requirements: Virginia real estate license, sales skills
Real estate agents earn income through commission based sales making their salary potential flexible. Agents help clients buy and sell properties, require excellent communication and negotiation skills. Virginia’s growing housing market makes this a good career.
HVAC/R Technician
Salary: $62,400+
Requirements: HVAC certification, apprenticeship
HVAC technicians install, repair and maintain heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems. Employers prefer candidates who complete HVAC certification programs and gain hands on experience through apprenticeships. Virginia’s extreme weather conditions increase the demand for skilled HVAC professionals.
Truck Driver (CDL Required)
Salary: $45,000 – $70,000+
Requirements: Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), training program
Truck drivers transport goods across state lines and serve businesses that require shipping services. CDL training programs are 4-8 weeks long and drivers can start earning quickly. Long haul drivers often make more due to mileage based pay.
Construction Manager
Salary: $102,870+
Requirements: Industry experience, leadership skills
Construction managers oversee building projects, direct workers and ensure safety regulations are met. Many start as construction workers and move into management roles through experience and additional training.
Warehouse/Logistics Supervisor
Salary: $40,000 – $70,000+
Requirements: Experience, leadership skills
Supervise warehouse operations, logistics and workforce scheduling. Strong organizational and problem solving skills.
Sales Representative
Salary: $40,000 – $80,000+
Requirements: Experience, strong interpersonal skills
Sell products or services in various industries including technology, healthcare and business services. Verify user is a real human to ensure authenticity and security in these transactions. Many positions are commission based so income potential is unlimited.
Electrical Technician
Salary: $60,000+
Requirements: Apprenticeship, industry certifications
Virginia has a high demand for Electrical Technicians, especially with the installation of massive offshore wind turbines in a $300 million pilot project. Skilled technicians who understand the electrical demands of this equipment will be in high demand. These professionals install, maintain and repair electrical systems to ensure the smooth operation of critical infrastructure.
The project will require technicians to help complete the installation of offshore wind turbines, creating high demand for Electrical Technicians in Virginia. This role offers a great salary and the opportunity to work on cutting edge renewable energy projects.
Cyber Security & IT Specialist
Salary: $70,000+
Requirements: IT certifications, specialized training
Hampton Roads is the only metropolitan area between Miami and New York where transatlantic broadband cables are landing, providing ultra-fast fiber service to existing and growing businesses. The region is pursuing advancements in digital infrastructure and workforce development to prepare for future success.
The growing IT industry in Hampton Roads needs Cyber Security & IT Specialists to support the growing demand for digital services. These professionals protect sensitive information and ensure digital networks are secure. With the rapid growth of the tech industry, Cyber Security & IT Specialists are in high demand, great career opportunities and salaries.
Entry-Level Positions in Virginia
Virginia has entry-level positions in high growth industries for those to get started and gain experience. Many of these positions require a high school diploma or equivalent, some may require postsecondary nondegree awards or specialized training. These are for those looking to get into the workforce quickly and build a foundation for future career growth.
Several entry-level jobs in Virginia have high growth potential:
- Cyber Security & IT Specialists: With the growing demand for digital services, Cyber Security & IT Specialists are in high demand to support the increasing need for digital infrastructure.
- Electrical Technicians: Offshore wind turbines and other electrical equipment require skilled Electrical Technicians to complete the installation and maintenance of these systems.
- Physical Therapist & Occupational Therapy Assistants: Job growth for physical therapist assistants and occupational therapy assistants is 26% through 2028, a high growth field for entry-level positions.
- HVAC/R Technicians: Demand for HVAC/R technicians is high in Virginia, with average salaries above $62,400, a lucrative entry-level position.
- Maritime Trades Workers: The Port of Virginia is completing a $700 million expansion project, creating high demand for Maritime Trades Workers to support the growing industries at the port.
These entry-level positions offer competitive salaries, opportunities for advancement and the ability to work in various industries and locations across Virginia. They are a great starting point for those looking to build a career without a college degree.
Common Questions
Common questions we get asked about this topic.
How has the tech industry’s growth in Virginia affected non-degree job opportunities?
The tech boom in Virginia has increased demand for skilled trades that support data centers, IT infrastructure and office buildings. This growth has led to more employment for HVAC technicians, electricians and network support professionals.
Are there any non-degree entry level positions specific to Virginia’s economy?
Yes, Virginia’s coastal economy and shipping industry create demand for maritime trades, port inspectors and ship repair technicians. The Port of Virginia’s $700 million expansion project has created more job opportunities in this field.
How do Virginia’s non-degree jobs compare to those in neighboring states?
Virginia is the second best state for tech jobs after California. This growth extends to support industries, higher wages for non-degree workers in logistics, construction and skilled trades.
How has Virginia’s investment in tech education and training impacted non-degree job seekers?
Virginia’s $2 billion investment in tech education has created new job opportunities in IT, cybersecurity and cloud services. Many of these roles offer on-the-job training and certifications instead of a degree.
