16 High-Paying Careers with Little Schooling

Looking for detailed information on High-Paying Careers with Little Schooling? then you are on the right article. When you think about jobs that pay well, you often think about needing advanced degrees. Surgeons and other doctors, for example, usually have to study for at least eight years after college. These are some of the highest-paying jobs, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

But what if you want to earn good money without spending so much time and money on more schooling? That is where knowing about jobs with decent pay and not too much schooling can be helpful. In this article, we will cover 16 high-paying careers with little schooling. Let’s get started.

Top 16 High-Paying Careers with Little Schooling

If you want to earn a lot without spending too much time in school, these jobs might be perfect for you.

1. Loan officer

You need to help customers apply for loans. This is the main job of a loan officer. You will meet with people, talk about what they need, and suggest the right loan options. 

You will guide their applications through the approval process and keep them updated along the way. Usually, all you need for this job is a high school diploma and a license for mortgage loan officers. Many companies offer training to help you get started.

• Salary per annum: $183,200
• Degree required: Bachelor’s degree in business, finance, or a related field preferred
• Who is hiring: Banks, credit unions, mortgage companies, financial institutions
• Best way to get the job: Earn relevant degree, obtain licenses and certifications, gain experience through internships or entry-level positions, develop strong communication and sales skills

2. Air traffic controller

As an air traffic controller, your job is to keep an eye on aircraft movements in your assigned area. You will talk to pilots to give them weather updates and safety info. You will decide when planes can land or take off safely while keeping them a good distance apart. Sometimes, you will also help out during emergencies by staying in touch with planes or airports. 

To become an air traffic controller, you need to be between 18 and 30 years old. You need to have at least a high school diploma or GED. You also need to complete a three-month course at the FAA Academy. Many people also get an associate or bachelor’s degree from a program approved by the FAA’s Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) before going to the FAA Academy.

• Salary per annum: $132,250
• Degree required: Bachelor’s degree in aviation, air traffic control, or a related field preferred 
• Who is hiring: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
• Best way to get the job: Pass the FAA Air Traffic Specialist (ATS) qualification test, complete academy training, gain experience in a control tower or radar facility

3. Ultrasonographer

As an ultrasonographer, you will use a special device called an ultrasound transducer to look inside the body using sound waves. You will focus on different areas like the heart, blood vessels, or joints. Some ultrasonographers specialize in women’s health or pediatric care.

Your job involves talking to patients about the procedure, operating the imaging equipment, and keeping it in good condition. After taking the images, you will study them and write a summary for the doctor. You will also update patients’ medical records when necessary.

• Salary per annum: $131,161
• Degree required: Associate’s degree in sonography
• Who is hiring: Hospitals, clinics, imaging centers, physician offices
• Best way to get the job: Earn your degree, get licensed, gain experience through an internship or clinical rotation, network with healthcare professionals

4. Nuclear medicine technologist

As a nuclear medicine technologist, your job is to give patients radioactive substances for imaging tests. These tests help doctors see inside the body and figure out what is wrong. You will also make sure that both patients and staff are safe from too much exposure to the radioactive stuff. 

You would do it by checking the equipment and taking precautions. To become a nuclear medicine technologist, you usually need an associate degree in nuclear medicine technology. However, having a bachelor’s degree might give you more job options.

• Salary per annum: $129,700
• Degree required: Associate’s degree in nuclear medicine technology or a related field (Bachelor’s degree is preferred by some employers)
• Who is hiring: Hospitals, clinics, imaging centers
• Best way to get the job: Earn accredited degree, obtain state licensure, complete clinical internship, cultivate strong technical and communication skills

5. MRI Technologist

As an MRI technologist or technician, you will operate the MRI machine to help doctors diagnose patients with medical conditions. You will position patients in the machine and help them stay calm during the procedure. 

Sometimes, you will need to inject patients with contrast media to improve image quality. You may also assist doctors in examining MRI images. Most MRI tech certification programs require an associate degree in a health-related field.

• Salary per annum: $128,000
• Degree required: Associate’s degree in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or a related field 
• Who is hiring: Hospitals, clinics, imaging centers
• Best way to get the job: Earn an accredited degree, obtain state licensure, complete clinical internship, develop strong technical and interpersonal skills

6. Radiation therapist

As a radiation therapist, you will care for cancer patients by giving them radiation treatment. You will work closely with oncologists and nurses to plan and administer the treatment. 

Your job includes talking to patients about their treatment options. You need to answer their questions and watch how they respond to treatment. To become a radiation therapist, you usually need an associate degree or certification from a radiation therapy program.

• Salary per annum: $120,000
• Degree required: Bachelor’s degree in radiation therapy or a related field 
• Who is hiring: Hospitals, clinics, cancer centers
• Best way to get the job: Earn an accredited degree, obtain state licensure, complete supervised clinical experience, stay updated with new technologies and treatment protocols

7. Software developer

As a software developer or engineer, your job is to create new software programs. You will work with other designers and engineers. Your job is to make sure the software can do what it is supposed to do. This might involve using different programming languages. 

It is helpful to have some knowledge of the industry you are working in, like banking or airplane maintenance. Some employers might accept an associate degree, but having a bachelor’s degree could open up more opportunities for you.

• Salary per annum: $117,900
• Degree required: Bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field
• Who is hiring: Diverse array of industries, including technology companies, financial institutions, healthcare, and more
• Best way to get the job: Build a strong portfolio showcasing your coding skills, participate in open-source projects, gain experience through internships or entry-level positions, develop strong problem-solving and analytical skills

8. Respiratory Therapist

As a respiratory therapist, you will assist patients who have trouble breathing. You will work with people of all ages and handle emergencies like heart attacks or drowning.

Your duties will involve connecting patients to ventilators to ensure they are getting enough oxygen. You will also conduct tests to assess their breathing and provide treatments to help them breathe better. Also, you will teach patients breathing exercises to improve their respiratory condition.

• Salary per annum: $104,437
• Degree required: Associate’s degree in respiratory therapy
• Who is hiring: Hospitals, clinics, home care companies, nursing homes
• Best way to get the job: Earn your degree, pass the national licensing exam, gain experience through clinical rotations, network with healthcare professionals

9. Dental Hygienist 

If you are looking for a great job, becoming a dental hygienist could be a good choice. It pays well, around $99,013 per year. It often offers flexible hours and good benefits.

To become a dental hygienist, you will need to attend a trade school program and get your license. Usually, this takes two years or less. This means you can start earning a good salary without having to get a four-year degree.

• Salary per annum: $99,013
• Degree required: Associate’s degree in dental hygiene
• Who is hiring: Dental offices, public health clinics, hospitals, private practices
• Best way to get the job: To start your career, you should earn your degree, get licensed, and gain experience through an internship. Also, it’s essential to network with dentists in your area.

10. Elevator installer

You will install and repair elevators, escalators, and moving walkways. Using blueprints, you will figure out where to put the equipment, assemble the parts, and connect the electrical wires. 

You will make sure everything works correctly, and if there are any issues, you will fix them. Sometimes, you will even take apart and remove elevators and escalators. 

To start, you will need at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Then, you will enter a mandatory four-year apprenticeship to learn the ropes before getting a state license.

• Salary per annum: $99,000
• Degree required: High school diploma or equivalent preferred, but not always required
• Who is hiring: Elevator construction companies, construction contractors
• Best way to get the job: Complete an apprenticeship program, obtain relevant certifications, gain experience through on-the-job training, develop strong physical stamina, manual dexterity, and spatial reasoning skills

11. Concrete pump operator

As a concrete pump operator, you will use big machines to move concrete to construction sites. You will drive large trucks to pick up and drop off concrete, putting it where it’s needed. 

You will also clean and take care of the machines you use. To start, you will need at least a high school diploma or GED. Also, you will need a commercial driver’s license (CDL).

• Salary per annum: $98,500
• Degree required: High school diploma or equivalent preferred. Training is provided by most employers.
• Who is hiring: Concrete pumping companies, construction companies, and general contractors.
• Best way to get the job: Obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with endorsements for air brakes and combination vehicles. Gain experience through on-the-job training or an apprenticeship program offered by some companies.

12. Power plant operator

As a power plant operator, you will control the machines that make and send out electricity. Your job is to keep an eye on everything to spot any issues. 

You need to make sure the plant runs smoothly to meet people’s power needs. You don’t need a degree after high school. However, if you have an associate degree it  might help you find better job opportunities.

• Salary per annum: $97,500
• Degree required: High school diploma or equivalent, most employers provide on-site training. Some positions may prefer a technical degree in a related field.
• Who is hiring: Utility companies, and power plants.
• Best way to get the job: Earn technical certificates/associate degrees related to power plant operations, obtain relevant licenses, and gain experience in a mechanical/engineering role.

13. Real estate broker

As a real estate broker, you will be able to buy and sell properties, just like agents do. But, you will also have the chance to run your own real estate business and hire agents to work for you. As a broker, it is your job to make sure all the deals your agents handle are legal, properly documented, and financially solid.

You might also mentor new agents, and guide them through the ins and outs of the real estate world. To get started, all you need is a high school diploma or GED. But usually, brokers begin as agents. This means you will likely train with a real estate company and get your real estate agent license.

• Salary per annum: $95,700
• Degree required: High school diploma or equivalent, but a bachelor’s degree in business, finance, or a related field can be beneficial
• Who is hiring: Self-employment is common but also can be employed by real estate agencies and firms.
• Best way to get the job: Obtain a real estate license, build a network of clients, develop strong sales and marketing skills, and gain experience by working as a real estate agent initially.

14. Construction Manager

As a construction manager, you will work closely with architects and engineers on various construction projects. These projects could range from building homes to commercial buildings or even government projects.

Your main job will involve figuring out what materials are needed for each project. You need to make sure they are ready to go. You will use your problem-solving skills to go over blueprints, estimate costs, and set deadlines for getting the job done.

• Salary per annum: $88,319
• Degree required: Bachelor’s degree in construction management or related field
• Who is hiring: Construction companies, engineering firms, government agencies
• Best way to get the job: Earn your degree, gain experience through internships or entry-level positions, obtain relevant certifications, network with industry professionals

15. Ship Engineer

As a ship engineer, you will be responsible for maintaining the key parts of a ship. You should maintain parts like the engine, pumps, and generators. Your job is to ensure that everything, from the electronic gear to the propellers to the communication systems, is working properly. 

You will also oversee the maintenance crew and conduct inspections on the equipment before and during voyages. Typically, you will need a bachelor’s degree in engineering, preferably in naval engineering.

• Salary per annum: $87,300
• Degree required: Bachelor’s degree in Marine Engineering or a related field, such as Mechanical Engineering with a maritime focus.
• Who is hiring: Shipping companies, cruise lines, cargo companies, government agencies (e.g., Navy), and maritime research institutions.
• Best way to get the job: Earn a relevant degree or meet experience requirements. Obtain professional licenses and certifications, such as those issued by the United States Coast Guard (USCG).

16. Aircraft Mechanic

As an aircraft mechanic, you will be in charge of making sure helicopters and planes are in great condition. This means checking all the mechanical parts to ensure they are safe and working well.

You will work in different places like airports, government agencies, and engineering firms. Your main job is to make sure the aircraft meets safety rules. Your tasks will involve examining aircraft systems, finding any problems, cleaning mechanical parts, and keeping maintenance records updated.

• Salary per annum: $82,400
• Degree required: Varies, but an associate’s degree in aircraft maintenance technology or FAA A&P certification is preferred
• Who is hiring: Airlines, repair stations, general aviation facilities, government agencies
• Best way to get the job: Earn your degree or certification, complete an apprenticeship program, network with aviation professionals

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

College costs a lot and demands a big chunk of your time and energy. Some students are so busy with classes that they can’t work on the side. Even though going to college can lead to higher pay later. But, many people discover that skipping college and doing one of the jobs mentioned above is a smart move. 

It usually costs $102,000 to live on campus with an average four-year college. It might be better for you to skip the degree and jump right into work. Not everyone needs a college degree. We have tried our best to show that you can have high-paying careers with little schooling. You need to expect to learn a lot on the job and adapt quickly.