How much money do you make? If you are making less than $30 an hour, then it is time to take a look at your career options. In this article, we will discuss 15 jobs that pay more than $30 an hour without requiring a college degree.
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Traditional Jobs That Pay $30 an Hour or More Without a Degree
Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers
Transportation, storage, and distribution managers earned a median wage of $44.90 per hour in 2016. They coordinate and oversee the transportation of goods to and from retailers, manufacturers, and other businesses. Most managers in this field have a bachelor’s degree, but some positions may require an associate’s degree or even just a high school diploma.
Power Distributors and Dispatchers
Power distributors and dispatchers work with the electrical grid, managing the flow of power to customers. They may also work with natural gas or water distribution systems. The job requires a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Median pay is $30 an hour.
Commercial Pilot
Commercial pilots fly aircraft for transporting goods and passengers. They usually work for airlines, but can also find employment with other transportation companies. The median wage for commercial pilots is $73,000 per year.
Elevator Installers and Repairers
Elevator Installers and Repairers make a median salary of $73,690 each year. The job is expected to grow by 11 percent between 2016-2026 which means more jobs will be available in the future for this career. Elevator Installers and Repairers need at least a high school diploma or equivalent degree but may receive on-the-job training.
Lighting Technicians
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as well as Salary.com and Glassdoor.com, lighting technicians can expect an average salary between $30-$35 per hour without a college degree. Lighting technicians set up lightings for events such as concerts or plays so that they do not interfere with filming or other operations on stage and can also work in the film and television industry.
Subway and Streetcar Operators
Operators of streetcars and subway trains play a crucial role in mass transit. In order to operate these heavy vehicles, workers need at least an associate degree from a technical school or community college. The median hourly wage for subway operators is $29 per hour while the median wage for streetcar operators is about $27 per hour.
Electrical Power-Line Installers and Repairers
The job of an electrical power line installer and repairer is one that requires a lot of hard work. This career entails climbing up poles to install or repair electric lines along the roadways, in industrial areas, between cities and towns, etc., usually high above ground level. These workers often use special trucks equipped with tools designed for installing or repairing power lines. They must have a good understanding of electrical wiring, as well as knowledge of geography where they are working.
Electrical power-line installers and repairers earn an average wage of $30 per hour, making this a very lucrative career without a college degree.
Police Officer/Detective
Police officers and detectives make a mean annual salary of $73,010. Most police officer positions require that you have no criminal record as well as being a U.S. citizen or permanent resident with at least a green card. Police must be 21 years old to apply for the position but after training, it’s possible to become an officer before your 21st birthday.
Police officers and detectives must have excellent communication skills, problem-solving abilities, be physically fit and able to pass a medical examination, and be able to work long hours under stress. They are also expected to uphold the law at all times and maintain order during difficult situations.
Construction and Building Inspectors
Construction and building inspectors make sure that construction projects meet safety regulations. They also inspect buildings to ensure they are up to code. This job typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, but some positions may require an associate’s degree in engineering or architecture. Construction and building inspectors earned a median wage of $30.53 per hour.
Freelance Jobs and Businesses That Pay $30 an Hour or More Without a Degree
Salesperson
Sale is a field that has always paid well, and it’s only becoming more lucrative as time goes on. In fact, many sales jobs now pay $30 an hour or more. If you have strong people skills and are good at closing deals, then this could be the perfect career for you.
Growth Marketer
If you are creative, have a knack for research, and have the know-how to build relationships with other people online, being a growth marketer might be the perfect job for you. Growth marketers use their skills in analytics, content creation, and human psychology to help businesses grow on social media platforms. They work closely with marketing managers should understand what type of traffic and customers a business is looking to attract.
Growth marketers are some of the most in-demand professionals in the world today.
Web Developer
A web developer is responsible for creating websites. The average salary of a web developer ranges from $45,000 to $100,000 per year. This job requires at least an associate’s degree in computer science or programming and usually takes about three years to complete after college graduation. You can also take continuing education classes if you wish to get a degree in this field.
One of the best things about being a Web Developer is that you can work from home and set your own hours. Many web developers choose to telecommute because they want flexible working schedules or enjoy spending time with their families rather than commuting every day.
Graphic Designer
Graphic designers create the images and designs that go on clothing, print materials like business cards and invitations, as well as advertisements. Graphic designers can be employed by advertising firms or businesses in a variety of industries including fashion, publishing, and entertainment.
Writer/Editor
The job market has been tough on writers and editors, but this doesn’t mean you can’t find a well-paying writing or editing position. In fact, there are many companies that offer great salaries to highly skilled employees – even without a college degree! For example, the average salary of an editor is over $30 per hour, with many positions paying even more.
If you’re a skilled writer or editor, don’t be discouraged by the thought of having to go back to school. There are many great opportunities out there for you!
Real Estate Agent
A real estate agent is someone who helps people buy and sell properties. They typically work for a real estate company and earn a commission on the sales that they make. To become a real estate agent, you will need to complete some coursework and then pass an exam.
Final thoughts
So, there you have it! Fifteen jobs that pay $30 an hour or more without a college degree. While some of these positions may require additional training or certification, for the most part, they are attainable with just a high school diploma or equivalent.
If you’re looking for a career change and want to start making an income that will allow you to live comfortably, one of these jobs may be a good fit for you.