The highest-paying jobs in New York without a degree include real estate brokers, elevator installers, air traffic controllers, power plant operators, and commercial pilots. These roles often require certifications, apprenticeships, or on-the-job training instead of formal education.
New York has many high paying jobs for individuals without a college degree. With the high cost of living in NYC many are looking for jobs that pay well without having to complete a traditional 4 year education. Roles like operating engineers, power plant operators and distribution managers rely on experience, training and certifications. This article covers the top jobs in New York that pay well without a degree, industry, certifications and salary expectations.
Why Choose a Job Without a Degree in New York
Choosing a high paying job without a college degree in NYC saves time and money on education and gets you into the workforce sooner. Many jobs offer on the job training or apprenticeships so human workers gain practical experience while earning. Jobs like elevator installers and HVAC installers pay well and are job secure given the continuous demand in the construction and maintenance sectors.
Plus career advancement is possible through certifications and experience making these jobs good for long term employment.
Top Industries That Pay Well Without a Degree
Several industries in New York pay well for those without a college degree. The construction industry pays well for skilled labor like operating engineers and elevator installers. The transportation industry including commercial pilots and ship captains pays big. The real estate industry also pays well for property brokers and agents. And the hospitality industry especially in unionized roles pays well and has benefits.
| Job Title | Average Salary (per year) |
|---|---|
| Criminal Investigator | $113,762 |
| Artist | $103,303 |
| Operating Engineer | $100,883 |
| Ship Captain | Not specified |
| Pilot | $191,816 |
| Model | $136,144 |
| Distribution Manager | $84,530 |
| Construction Supervisor | $78,445 |
| HVAC Installer | $75,449 |
| Claims Adjuster | $68,945 |
Top 5 Highest Paying Jobs Without a Degree in New York
- Real Estate Brokers Earn an average salary of $86,440 per year by selling and managing property in NYC. Brokers need a state license which requires passing an exam but no college degree is required.
- Elevator Installers and Repairers With an average salary of $97,860 this role involves installing and maintaining elevators, escalators and lifts. An apprenticeship and certification are required to ensure performance and security standards.
- Air Traffic Controllers Managing data related to flight paths and human safety in air travel earns controllers an average of $130,420 per year. Training through the FAA and a certification exam is required.4. Power Plant Operators Overseeing power generation facilities, storage and distribution earns an average salary of $94,790. This job requires technical training and certifications but no college degree.
- Commercial Pilots Flying charter planes and non-scheduled flights earns commercial pilots around $93,300 per year. A pilot’s license is required, obtained through flight training programs.
Certifications and Training Programs That Boost Salary
Certifications increase earning potential for jobs in New York without a degree. Programs like the National Elevator Industry Educational Program (NEIEP) for elevator installers, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for commercial pilots, and the Operating Engineers Certification Program for operating engineers ensure individuals meet security, performance and data management standards. Certifications in HVAC installation, power plant operations and logistics management enhance skills and lead to higher salaries and better job prospects.
Challenges of Working Without a Degree in New York
Working in NYC without a degree has challenges including intense competition for jobs and continuous skill development. Many high paying jobs like power plant operators and elevator installers require rigorous training and certification verification to ensure all performance and security standards are met.
Plus the high cost of living in New York requires workers to continuously improve their skills to get better salaries and stable employment. Access to reliable data, constant review of industry trends and successful verification of qualifications is key to career growth.
Final Points
Pursuing a high paying job in New York without a degree is possible with the right training and certifications. Industries like construction, transportation, real estate and hospitality have many opportunities. With roles like operating engineers, power plant operators and commercial pilots individuals can earn well and avoid higher education costs. By focusing on skill development, certification and hands on experience workers in NYC can achieve financial success without a college degree.
Typical Questions On High Paying Jobs in New York Without a Degree
How does job-hopping affect salary potential in New York’s no-degree job market?
Job-hopping increases salary potential as changing employers gives higher pay raises than staying with one company.
Are there any unique, lesser known high paying jobs in New York that don’t require a degree?
Yes, unique jobs include golf ball divers ($53,934/year), crab fishers ($58,067/year) and street rod and custom fabricators ($69,377/year).
How do union jobs factor into high paying opportunities for those without degrees in New York?
Union jobs like in the hospitality industry pay well. For example, union hotel housekeeping staff earn more than teachers and get paid training and career growth opportunities.
What industries in New York are most likely to offer high paying jobs without degree requirements?
Industries like construction, transportation, hospitality and specialized trades like HVAC installation have many high paying opportunities.
How do the salaries of no-degree jobs in New York City compare to the rest of the state?
Salaries are higher in NYC than the rest of the state due to the higher cost of living. Many salaries reported are NYC figures and reflect a premium for being in the metropolitan area.
