The highest paying jobs in Pennsylvania without a degree include transportation manager ($94,000), elevator installer ($92,000), and commercial pilot ($87,000). Other high-paying roles include power plant operator, real estate broker, and police supervisor, with salaries ranging from $75,000 to $85,000 annually.
PA is has a long tradition of being an industrial powerhouse including manufacturing, mining, and energy. While over the years, some sectors have declined, it certainly has many employment opportunities from both traditional and newly growing markets.
Many jobs in Pennsylvania provide high income without requiring a four year college education. These positions rely on hands-on training, certifications, and skills rather than a bachelor’s degree. Workers can enter these fields with a high school diploma or postsecondary nondegree award and still earn strong salaries. Below is a breakdown of industries, examples, and how you can get started in these high paying careers.
Understanding the Job Market in Pennsylvania
Many high-paying jobs in Pennsylvania do not require a degree and are concentrated in transportation, construction, public sector, and skilled trades.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, industries like transportation, logistics, and utilities in Pennsylvania have steady demand for roles that require on-the-job training instead of a college degree.
Key Fields Hiring Without a Degree:
- Transportation and logistics
- Skilled construction trades
- Public safety and law enforcement
- Utilities and energy systems
- Food and hospitality management
These roles typically require a valid driver’s license, certifications, or apprenticeships. Many jobs also offer benefits like health insurance, paid time off, and retirement contributions.
Highest Paying Jobs in Pennsylvania Without a Degree (Table)
Below is a table summarizing some of the highest-paying jobs in Pennsylvania that do not require a college degree, along with their average annual salaries and job descriptions.
| Job Title | Average Salary | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Pipe Welder | $68,445 | Uses specialized equipment to fuse metals for pipelines and plumbing systems. |
| Aircraft Mechanic | $66,299 | Performs maintenance and safety checks on aircraft. |
| Executive Chef | $66,660 | Oversees kitchen operations and staff in restaurants. |
| Conductor | $63,277 | Operates trains and ensures safe travel for passengers. |
| Yoga Instructor | $64,270 | Leads yoga sessions and supports physical techniques. |
| Floor Layers (Except Carpet/Wood) | $84,690 | Installs commercial flooring with moderate on-the-job training. |
| Telecommunications Line Installer | $89,090 | Installs and repairs telecom lines across networks. |
| Detectives and Criminal Investigators | $86,280 | Solves crimes through evidence collection and interviews. |
| Boilermaker | $97,330 | Constructs and repairs industrial boilers. |
| Nuclear Power Reactor Operator | $114,830 | Operates nuclear reactors under strict safety protocols. |
These jobs offer strong pay, require no four-year degree, and can be accessed with certifications or moderate-term training.
Skilled Trades and Construction Careers
Construction trades like boilermaker, floor layer, and pipe welder offer high pay without a college degree.
The construction industry values skill and safety training over formal higher education. Workers often start as apprentices and progress to supervisory roles like first line supervisors, who manage other members of the construction team.
Top High-Paying Trades in PA:
- Boilermaker – $97,330
- Pipe Welder – $68,445
- Floor Layer – $84,690
- Electrical Power Line Installers – $87,770 (source: BLS)
These roles usually require:
- A high school diploma or equivalent
- OSHA safety training
- Union apprenticeships or company-sponsored training
- Reliable physical health and ability to use heavy equipment
Transportation and Logistics Jobs
Many transportation careers pay above average and require only a high school diploma and a valid driver’s license.
Logistics is essential to Pennsylvania’s economy. Workers in this field move goods, manage deliveries, and maintain transport equipment.
Examples of High-Paying Transportation Jobs:
- Transportation Manager – $94,000
- Conductor – $63,277
- Truck Driver with CDL – $65,000+
- Mail Superintendents – $79,000+
- Delivery Route Coordinators – $58,000+
Commercial driver’s licenses (CDL) and on-the-job training are often the only educational requirements. Some roles, such as transportation managers, require experience managing routes, employees, and delivery schedules.
Public Sector and Law Enforcement Roles
Law enforcement and public sector careers offer strong pay and benefits without a degree.
These roles support public safety and infrastructure. Many positions provide structured civil service testing, ongoing training, and a pathway to pension-based retirement.
High-Earning Public Sector Roles:
- Police Supervisor – $85,000
- Detectives and Criminal Investigators – $86,280
- Patrol Officers – $78,000
- Correctional Officers – $60,000+
- Fire Inspectors – $70,000+
Workers often complete academy training and background checks. Advancement is based on performance and experience, not degrees.
Technology and Utility Careers
Utilities and technology roles offer reliable, high-paying careers without a bachelor’s degree.
Companies in Pennsylvania need skilled professionals to operate systems, repair electronics, and manage infrastructure.
Examples of Utility & Tech Jobs:
- Nuclear Power Reactor Operator – $114,830
- Electrical and Electronics Repairers – $78,000+
- Telecommunications Line Installers – $89,090
- Power Distributors and Dispatchers – $97,000
- Petroleum Pump System Operators – $82,000
Certifications in electronics repair, network security, or equipment maintenance can lead to quick employment. Workers with prior experience or completion of a postsecondary nondegree award gain hiring preference.
How to Start Your Career Without a Degree
Many jobs offer paid training or apprenticeships to help new employees learn skills while earning a paycheck.
If you want a high paying job without going to college, follow these steps:
Step-by-Step Path:
- Complete a high school diploma or GED
- Get certifications in fields like welding, culinary arts, or public safety
- Apply for apprenticeships through unions or trade groups
- Gain experience in entry level positions
- Advance to higher-paying roles by improving technical skills
Some state and federal agencies also offer assistance programs that help residents of Pennsylvania find training and job placement. These include career path guidance, financial aid, and resume support.
Common Qs
Below are common FAQS that we get asked about this topic.
Can I transition into high-paying roles without prior experience?
Yes. Many employers offer on-the-job training or apprenticeships. Jobs like pipe welder, boilermaker, and floor layer let you learn and earn at the same time.
Are certifications necessary for non-degree careers?
Yes, in many cases. For example, aircraft mechanics must complete FAA-approved training. Yoga instructors may pursue certifications in anatomy or meditation to increase pay and employment chances.
How can I network effectively in non-degree industries?
Join industry associations, attend trade events, and use LinkedIn to connect with professionals. Examples include welding unions, culinary associations, and telecommunications boards.
What are the growth opportunities in these careers?
Many high-paying jobs without a degree lead to supervisory or management roles.
Examples:
– Executive chefs often become restaurant owners.
– Detectives can move into management positions.
– Telecommunications installers can lead regional network projects.
Oue Thoughts
You don’t need a college degree to earn a strong salary in Pennsylvania. High-paying jobs in trades, transportation, utilities, and public safety provide income, benefits, and career growth.
Focus on certifications, skills training, and gaining real-world experience. Whether you want to be an aircraft mechanic, pipe welder, or transportation manager, you can succeed by starting with entry-level work and moving up.
