Jobs that pay $30 per hour without a degree include commercial truck drivers, electricians, and plumbers. Other high-paying roles include HVAC technicians, real estate agents, and solar installers. Skilled trades, IT support specialists, and construction supervisors also earn $30+ per hour with certifications or experience.
High-Paying Jobs Without a College Degree
Many jobs pay over $30 / hr without requiring a bachelor’s degree. These careers often require on-the-job training, apprenticeships, or certifications instead of traditional university education. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that skilled trades and technology-related jobs offer some of the highest median wages for workers without a college education.
Industries With High-Paying Jobs
Several industries provide jobs that pay $30 per hour or more, including:
- Skilled Trades (e.g., electricians, plumbers, and building inspectors)
- Technology (e.g., web developers, IT support specialists, and freelance writers)
- Healthcare (e.g., dental hygienists, registered nurses from nursing school, and physical therapy assistants)
- Logistics & Transportation (e.g., commercial pilots, truck drivers, and warehouse supervisors)
- Sales & Marketing (e.g., real estate agents, social media managers, and sales positions)
These careers allow individuals to gain experience without a degree, offering job stability and career growth.
Skilled Trade Jobs That Pay $30 Per Hour
Skilled trades remain in high demand. Employers seek workers with the necessary skills to fill roles in construction, electrical work, and plumbing. Many skilled trades require apprenticeships instead of college education, making them an ideal choice for high school graduates.
Examples of Skilled Trades Paying $30+ Per Hour
- Electricians – Install and maintain electrical systems. Training is provided through apprenticeships.
- Plumbers – Work on pipes and drainage systems. Licensing may be required.
- HVAC Technicians – Repair and install heating and cooling systems.
- Construction Supervisors – Oversee projects on construction sites and ensure work is completed on time.
- Elevator Installers – Install and repair elevators, escalators, and lifts.
Many of these careers require physically demanding work, but they offer job security and strong salaries.
Technology Jobs That Pay $30 Per Hour
Technology-related jobs offer high pay, flexible work options, and remote opportunities. Many roles in tech do not require a college degree, and previous experience or certifications can help workers land jobs.
Examples of High-Paying Tech Jobs
- Web Developers – Build and maintain websites. Learning web development through online courses can help beginners.
- Graphic Designers – Use graphic design software to create visuals for businesses and websites.
- IT Support Specialists – Help companies and clients troubleshoot technical issues.
- Freelance Writers – Provide writing services for blogs, social media posts, and online publications.
- Cybersecurity Analysts – Protect networks and data from security threats.
Technology careers provide opportunities to gain experience and increase earnings over time.
Healthcare Jobs That Pay $30 Per Hour
Healthcare jobs often require certifications or vocational training instead of a bachelor’s degree. Many positions offer job stability due to growing demand.
Examples of High-Paying Healthcare Jobs
- Dental Hygienists – Work in dental offices, assisting with cleanings and exams.
- Registered Nurses (RN) – Work in hospitals or clinics after completing nursing school.
- Radiologic Technologists – Perform diagnostic imaging exams.
- Physical Therapy Assistants – Help patients recover from injuries.
- Pharmacy Technicians – Assist pharmacists in dispensing medications.
Many of these careers offer on-the-job training and opportunities for career advancement.
Law Enforcement & Public Safety Jobs That Pay $30 Per Hour
Law enforcement jobs provide competitive salaries and benefits without requiring a college degree. Many roles require training through a police academy.
Examples of High-Paying Law Enforcement Jobs
- Police Officers – Arrest suspects, respond to emergencies, and maintain public safety.
- Firefighters – Protect lives and property by responding to fires and emergencies.
- Corrections Officers – Supervise inmates in prisons and detention centers.
- Security Managers – Oversee security processes for businesses and organizations.
- Detectives – Investigate crimes and gather evidence.
Law enforcement jobs can be physically demanding but offer career growth and benefits.
Sales & Marketing Jobs That Pay $30 Per Hour
Sales and marketing jobs provide opportunities to earn high salaries based on commissions and performance. These jobs do not require a college degree, but previous experience and sales skills help candidates succeed.
Examples of High-Paying Sales & Marketing Jobs
- Real Estate Agents – Earn commissions from selling properties.
- Social Media Managers – Create and manage social media posts for brands.
- Sales Representatives – Work in sales positions for products and services.
- Digital Marketers – Run online advertising campaigns.
- Copywriters – Create compelling content for websites and advertisements.
Sales jobs allow workers to increase earnings by gaining more customers and improving marketing skills.
Summary of High-Paying Jobs Without a Degree
Here’s a table summarizing jobs that pay $30 an hour or more without requiring a college degree:
| Job Title | Average Pay (Hourly) | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Manager | $45.46/hour | Experience in logistics or supply chain management. |
| Power Distributor and Dispatcher | $43.61/hour | On-the-job training. |
| Commercial Pilot | $41.38/hour | FAA license and flight training. |
| Elevator Installer and Repairer | $40.86/hour | Apprenticeship training. |
| Power Line Installer and Repairer | $31.83/hour | Apprenticeship and certification. |
| Police Officer or Detective | $31.33/hour | Police academy training. |
| Construction and Building Inspector | $30/hour | Apprenticeship and field experience. |
| Web Developer | $35/hour | Self-taught web development skills; online courses can help. |
| Graphic Designer | $30+/hour | Experience with tools like Photoshop; portfolio required. |
| Social Media Manager | $30+/hour | Skills in content creation, analytics, and campaign management. |
| Online Tutor | Varies (up to $30+/hour) | Expertise in a subject area; high school diploma may suffice. |
| Proofreader/Editor | $30+/hour | Strong grammar skills and attention to detail. |
| Remote Bookkeeper | $30/hour | Familiarity with accounting software like QuickBooks; training recommended. |
Final Points
Many high-paying jobs do not require a degree. Skilled trades, technology, healthcare, law enforcement, and sales offer careers where workers can earn $30 per hour or more. By gaining the necessary skills, pursuing on-the-job training, and choosing high-demand fields, job seekers can secure well-paying positions without attending a university.
Key Takeaways
- Many careers pay $30+ per hour without a college degree.
- Skilled trades, technology, healthcare, and sales offer some of the best options.
- On-the-job training, certifications, and apprenticeships help workers succeed.
- Jobs like electricians, web developers, police officers, and real estate agents offer strong median wages.
By choosing the right career path, job seekers can earn a great salary without a university education.
