Did you graduate high school and are now wondering what to do with your life? Maybe it’s time to think about getting a job. We all know that jobs these days require at least some sort of education, but not all of them! This article will be discussing 23 different jobs that don’t require any form of college degree or diploma. These are great options for those who didn’t finish high school, want something quick and easy on the side, or just need some extra cash in their paycheck.
Table of Contents
Freelance Jobs
Writer
If you have a way with words, a career in writing may be the perfect fit for you. While many writing jobs do require a college degree, there are also opportunities for those who want to start their own business or write content on a freelance basis.
Proofreader
Proofreaders are in high demand, especially for online publications. If you have great attention to detail and a knack for grammar, this might be the perfect job for you. Proofreading typically requires a bachelor’s degree, but there are some proofreading jobs that will accept applicants with an associate’s degree or higher.
Virtual Assistant
Are you a whiz with computers? Do you have great organizational skills? A virtual assistant may be the perfect job for you! Virtual assistants complete a wide variety of tasks, such as answering emails, scheduling appointments, and managing social media accounts. They typically work from home, making it a perfect job for stay-at-home moms or people who want to work from home.
To become a virtual assistant, you’ll need strong computer skills and a good knowledge of popular software programs. You should also be able to effectively manage your time and be comfortable working independently. If you have the necessary skills and qualifications, consider becoming a virtual assistant!
Graphic Designer
If you have a knack for design and like working with computers, graphic design might be the perfect career for you. Although many graphic designers now have a college degree, it is not always necessary. There are many online programs that offer certification in graphic design, and some employers may even prefer candidates who have taken these courses. As long as you have a strong portfolio, you should be able to find work in this field.
Graphic designers create visual representations of ideas and messages. They may design logos, brochures, magazine covers, or web pages. They typically use computers to create their designs, but they may also use traditional tools such as pens and paper.
Gig Economy Jobs
Food Courier
Many people like to think food delivery is a relatively new industry that mushroomed in the last decade. But it turns out there are lots of reasons why delivering sandwiches and take-out isn’t such a bad career path for someone who doesn’t want or need to be stuck at an office job all day long!
Uber/Lyft Driver
Uber and Lyft are companies that provide rideshare services to people who need transportation. If you want to be an Uber or Lyft driver, all you have to do is download the app on your phone so they can track where you’re at through GPS technology, pass a background check, get insured by the company in case of an accident, and have a clean driving record.
Package Delivery
If you’re looking for a job that doesn’t require a high-school diploma, consider package delivery. The U.S. Postal Service is always searching for qualified individuals to deliver mail and packages throughout the country. And no, you don’t need to be a licensed driver to become a postal carrier; many carriers deliver mail on foot or by bike.
If you’re looking for a package delivery job with a private company, there are plenty of options as well. UPS, FedEx, and the DHL all have delivery jobs open to anyone 18 years or older who is able to pass a background check and drug screen. These companies often hire part-time and seasonal employees, so it’s a good option if you’re looking for some extra income.
Grocery Shopper
Many stores are always looking for people to work the night shift as grocery shoppers. This job doesn’t require a high school diploma, but it does require being able to read and write. You will be responsible for putting groceries away in the store, so you must be able to lift heavy objects.
Pet Walker/Sitter
If you love animals, this could be the perfect job for you! Pet walkers and sitters are in high demand, as many people lead busy lives and don’t have time to take their pets for a walk or leave them at home all day. As a pet walker/sitter, you would visit clients’ homes to walk their pets or watch them while they’re away.
This is a great job for animal lovers who want to work from home, and it can be very rewarding to help keep pets happy and healthy.
Entrepreneurship
Start a Blog
If you have a passion for writing, start a blog. Blogging is a great way to share your thoughts and ideas with the world. And, it doesn’t require a high-school diploma.
There are many different platforms that you can use to start a blog, including WordPress, Tumblr, and Medium. You can also start a blog on other websites, such as Blogger and Weebly.
Start an E-Commerce Site
If you have some business acumen and a flair for marketing, starting your own e-commerce site is a great way to make money without a high school diploma. You’ll need to know how to set up and run a website, as well as market your products effectively online, but if you can manage that you can be in business for yourself.
There are a number of e-commerce platforms to choose from, and you can find plenty of tips and advice online on how to get started. You’ll need to invest in some stock, but with a well-run site, you could be making a good profit in no time.
Highest Paying Jobs Without a High School Diploma
Continuous Mining Machine Operator
Continuous Mining Machine Operator is an operator of continuous mining machines. A person in this job position needs to be physically fit, as they are required to spend long hours on their feet and walk upstairs or on hills. They should also have good hand-eye coordination because miners operate with heavy machinery by placing pre-drilled holes into the rock.
Rotary Drill Operator
A rotary drill operator is responsible for the operation of a drilling machine. This job does not require a high school diploma, but it may require on-the-job training. Rotary drill operators can earn up to $27 an hour.
Drywall Tapers and Finishers
Drywall tapers and finishers are responsible for creating a smooth, even surface on drywalls. They use tape and mud to cover seams and fix any imperfections in the wall. This is a skilled trade that does not require a high-school diploma, but it does require some training.
Service Unit Operators for Oil, Gas, and Mining
Not everyone wants to sit behind a desk all day, and that’s why there are jobs like oil rig workers. These workers help maintain the equipment needed for fracking and drilling. The job does require you to work outside in varying weather conditions; however, employees on these rigs tend to make higher-than-average salaries (some as high as $60,000). The workers on these rigs are also given the chance to travel around the country or even the world, depending on where they work.
Truck Driver
A truck driver is a hard worker who needs to be able to drive large trucks through all types of weather and road conditions. Truck drivers need good listening skills, the ability to multi-task while driving and must have great attention to detail in order to get their jobs done safely. You also usually need a high school diploma or equivalent for this job.
Other Job Options
Sales Representative
Sales representatives are in high demand and don’t typically require a college degree. If you have strong communication skills, are motivated, and enjoy working with people, this could be a great career for you. Sales reps can make a median annual salary of $56,770.
Construction Worker
Construction workers build and repair roads, bridges, homes, and other structures. They may also be involved in demolition projects. While some construction worker positions require a high school diploma or equivalent, many do not. For example, carpenters only need to have a few years of experience in the field and be able to read drawings. There are also many construction worker apprenticeship programs that can provide the necessary training.
Home Health Aide
Home health aides help people who are unable to take care of themselves. They may assist with bathing, dressing, and grooming. Home health aides may also prepare meals, do light housekeeping, and run errands. To work as a home health aide, you usually need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some states require home health aides to be certified.
Solar Panel Installer
Solar Panel Installers install solar panels on rooftops or other structures. They need to know how many amps the system needs and whether it will be hooked up to a battery storage system, as well as safety precautions like wearing protective eyewear when working with electricity. Solar panel installer salaries vary depending on location and company; some employers require an associate degree in a relevant field.
Security Guard
A security guard is a person employed by a public or private party to protect the employing entity’s assets (property, people, equipment, money) from a variety of hazards (such as waste, damaged property, unsafe worker behavior, criminal activity such as theft). Security guards do this by maintaining surveillance of premises.
Security guards often have a military, law enforcement, or security-related background. Some states require licensing of security guards.
A security guard does not need a high school diploma to be successful in this career.
Massage Therapist
A massage therapist doesn’t require a high school diploma, but they do need to complete an accredited massage therapy program. This involves learning about anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology. Massage therapists use their knowledge of the body to help clients relax and improve their health. They may work in a spa or clinic, or they may start their own practice.
A massage therapist works in a variety of different settings and can even work from home if they have the right equipment. They must be very skilled at massaging using their hands, elbows, or feet to provide relaxation and pain relief for clients with injuries or disabilities.
Air Traffic Controller
Air traffic controllers are responsible for the safe and efficient movement of aircraft. They work in control towers, approach control facilities, or en route centers. To become an air traffic controller, you need to be a U.S. citizen and have a high school diploma or equivalent. You also need to pass the Air Traffic Controller’s Exam, which is a computer-based test. The exam has four parts: pre-test, air traffic control verbal reasoning, airspace knowledge, and basic math skills.
Bottom line
There are a number of different jobs that don’t require a high-school diploma. While some may require additional training or certification, others may only require on-the-job training. If you’re looking for a new career and don’t have a high-school diploma, consider one of the many jobs that are available to you.