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High-Paying Jobs That Don't Need A Highschool Diploma

Many people without a high school diploma or GED have succeeded in well-paying careers. A high school diploma or GED is just one route, but many others exist. There are numerous industries where skills, dedication, and hands-on experience outweigh formal education. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for construction laborers was $48,330 in 2023.  High-paying jobs that don’t necessitate a high school diploma are more common than you might think. Many maintenance and delivery parts attendant positions are in high demand and may only require vocational training or a GED certificate. 

While some roles, such as cleaning, are associated with maintenance jobs and don’t always require a high school education, others may only require you to attend a trade school to gain the necessary skills. Even without a diploma, you can still pursue lucrative careers that offer stability and growth, making it worthwhile to get a GED test or explore specialized training programs. It’s often assumed that a high school diploma is necessary to land a good job, but that’s not always the case. This article will explore high-paying job opportunities in various fields that don’t require a high school diploma or GED.

Understanding Job Pathways Based on Educational Requirements

Whether you’re entering the workforce without a diploma, have earned your GED, or are considering a trade, it helps to know what to expect from each path. The following breakdown includes job examples, key responsibilities, required soft skills, onboarding timelines, and a balanced look at challenges and benefits.

1. Jobs That Require No High School Diploma

These roles are typically entry-level and emphasize physical labor or customer-facing tasks. They’re ideal for immediate employment, though career advancement may be limited without further education.

Common Daily Tasks:

  • Cleaning or organizing workspaces (housekeeping, janitorial roles)

  • Restocking shelves or unloading trucks (warehouse)

  • Preparing food or cleaning dishes (kitchen staff)

  • Operating basic tools or equipment

  • Providing basic customer service

Soft Skills Required:

  • Reliability and punctuality

  • Ability to follow instructions

  • Basic communication

  • Physical stamina

  • Teamwork

Onboarding Timeline:

  • Typically 1 to 2 weeks of paid, on-the-job training

Challenges:

  • Low starting pay

  • Physically demanding or repetitive work

  • Limited long-term career growth without additional training

Benefits:

  • No formal education required

  • Quick hiring process

  • Opportunity to gain work experience and soft skills

  • Some roles offer promotion potential with time and effort

2. Jobs That Accept a GED or Equivalent

With a GED, you unlock access to a wider range of entry-level positions that involve more responsibility, customer interaction, or clerical duties.

Common Daily Tasks:

  • Answering phones and greeting visitors (receptionist)

  • Handling sales transactions (retail associate)

  • Inputting data or updating records (data entry clerk)

  • Delivering packages or mail (delivery drivers, mail carriers)

  • Assisting customers with services or issues (customer service rep)

Soft Skills Required:

  • Time management

  • Problem-solving

  • Attention to detail

  • Professional communication

  • Adaptability

Onboarding Timeline:

  • Generally 2 to 4 weeks of training, depending on the role

  • May include probationary period (30–90 days)

Challenges:

  • Fast-paced environments with high expectations

  • Performance often monitored (e.g., call centers, retail metrics)

  • Irregular hours or shift work in some roles

Benefits:

  • Greater job stability and pay than no-diploma roles

  • Entry into office, administrative, or corporate environments

  • Opportunity for advancement or internal promotions

  • Often includes benefits like health insurance and paid time off

3. Jobs That Require Vocational Certification or Apprenticeship

These are skilled positions that involve formal training through technical schools or apprenticeships. They offer strong earning potential and long-term job security.

Common Daily Tasks:

  • Installing or repairing equipment (electricians, HVAC techs)

  • Performing diagnostics and maintenance (auto mechanics)

  • Driving long distances or handling freight (truck drivers)

  • Assisting with medical procedures (LPNs, dental assistants)

  • Reading blueprints or using specialized tools (welders, carpenters)

Soft Skills Required:

  • Critical thinking

  • Time management

  • Manual dexterity and precision

  • Communication (especially for client-facing trades)

  • Dependability and safety awareness

Onboarding Timeline:

  • Trade school programs: 6 months to 2 years

  • Apprenticeships: 1 to 4 years with paid training

  • CDL training (truck driving): 3 to 8 weeks

Challenges:

  • Initial training can be time-intensive

  • Physical or technical demands can be high

  • Licensing and certification may require periodic renewal

  • Travel or shift work is common in some trades

Benefits:

  • High job demand and earning potential

  • Stable career path with union and non-union options

  • Skills are transferable across regions

  • Opportunities to start your own business or work freelance

Jobs Without a High School Diploma or GED for Doers (Realistic Types)

If you enjoy physical work and being hands-on, many job opportunities in industries don’t require a homeschool  high school diploma. These roles often focus on practical, on-the-job training, providing significant room for growth.

Construction Worker

Construction is one of the best sectors for individuals without a diploma but willing to work hard. Construction site workers are always in demand, whether it’s building houses, roads, or other infrastructure. You can start as a general laborer and, with work experience, move up to more specialized roles such as plumber, electrician, or even a foreman.

  • Salary: On average, construction workers earn around $35,000–$50,000 annually, depending on the region and specific trade.

  • Growth Opportunities: Many construction workers advance through apprenticeships, leading to well-paying skilled trade jobs or management positions.

 

Delivery Driver

Whether through traditional services or gig-based platforms like Uber Eats and Amazon Flex, working as a delivery driver offers flexibility and solid pay. Delivery drivers don’t need a diploma, and this role provides opportunities to earn tips and a regular wage.

  • Salary: Delivery drivers can earn between $30,000 and $45,000 per year, with the potential for more through tips.

  • Growth Potential: Drivers can advance into managerial roles, coordinate logistics, or launch delivery businesses.

 

Landscaper/Gardener

If you love working outdoors, landscaping could be a perfect fit. This field offers hands-on work and entrepreneurship opportunities, from maintaining residential lawns to designing and installing elaborate landscapes.

  • Salary: Landscapers typically earn between $25,000 and $40,000 annually, and they can earn more as business owners.

  • Growth Opportunities: Landscaping offers numerous opportunities to start a business or specialize in hardscaping or garden design.

 

Warehouse Associate

Warehouse workers are essential to businesses that manage inventory and shipping. Roles in warehouses require physical labor, organization, and attention to detail, all skills learned on the job.

  • Salary: Warehouse workers can expect to earn between $28,000 and $40,000 annually, with overtime opportunities that can boost earnings.

  • Growth Potential: As a warehouse worker, you can move into higher-paying supervisory roles, logistics, or inventory management.

 

Graphic Designer

Graphic designers create visual content for branding, marketing, and digital platforms. While a formal degree isn’t mandatory, practical skills, proficiency in design software, and a strong portfolio are essential.

  • Salary: Graphic designers earn between $35,000 and $80,000 annually, with higher pay for specialized skills or freelance work.
  • Growth Potential: Designers can advance to art director, creative director, or start their own design agency.

 

Web Developer

Web developers design and maintain websites, ensuring functionality and user experience. While a degree with unique talents isn’t required, coding skills and experience with programming languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript are essential.

  • Salary: Web developers earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, with higher earnings for specialized backend or full-stack development skills.
  • Growth Potential: Developers can progress to senior developer or software engineer or launch their own web development business.

Jobs Without a High School or GED Diploma for Organizers 

If you get your GED, you’ll be organized and enjoy creating structure and systems. Many career paths are available that don’t require a high school diploma. Without a GED, these roles typically involve maintaining order, managing information, and supporting operations.

 

Retail Worker

Retail jobs are widely available and provide essential experience in customer service, cash handling, and inventory management. From cashier to stock associate, many roles don’t require formal education but demand excellent communication skills.

  • Salary: Retail workers earn around $25,000 to $35,000 annually, with some positions offering commissions and bonuses.

  • Growth Potential: Starting with an associate’s degree can lead to roles in retail management, district management, or even corporate positions in logistics and operations.

 

Security Guard

Security guards are crucial in protecting property, businesses, and people. The work requires alertness and vigilance, but typically doesn’t require a high school diploma.

  • Salary: On average, security guards earn about $30,000 to $40,000 annually.

  • Career Advancement: There are opportunities to become a lead guard or supervisor, and some security roles provide the option to work in more specialized fields like corporate security or event security.

 

Painter (Residential & Commercial)

Painters work in residential and commercial settings, applying finishes to various surfaces. These job options don’t require a diploma, but it does require knowledge of paints, surface preparation, and attention to detail.

  • Salary: Painters can make between $35,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience and specialization.

  • Growth Potential: Experienced painters can expand their business or move into higher-paying project management roles in construction.

 

Administrative Assistant

If you enjoy organizing things and facilitating operations, administrative assistant roles are a great option. These positions typically involve managing schedules, handling communication, and organizing documents.

  • Salary: Administrative assistants typically earn between $30,000 and $45,000 annually.

  • Career Growth: With experience, administrative assistants can advance into executive assistant or office manager roles.

Jobs That Don't Require A College Degree Diploma or GED for Helpers

If you enjoy working with people and desire to help others, plenty of career paths offer job satisfaction and competitive pay, all without requiring a high school diploma or GED.

 

Personal Care Aide

Personal care aides help people with disabilities, the elderly, or those recovering from surgery with daily activities. While a GED certificate isn’t necessary, some positions may require training or certification in personal care.

  • Salary: Personal care aides can earn between $25,000 and $35,000 per year, with potential for higher earnings in specialized care.

  • Growth Potential: With further training, personal care aides can move up to roles like certified nursing assistants (CNA) or into medical assistance.

 

Food Service Worker

Food service roles, such as server, cook, or dishwashing staff, are widely available and pay generously with tips and overtime. These jobs require strong customer service skills and the ability to work in fast-paced environments.

  • Salary: Servers typically earn between $20,000 and $40,000 annually, with the potential for tips and bonuses.

  • Growth Opportunities: Many food service workers move up the ranks to become shift supervisors, restaurant managers, or head chefs.

 

Housekeeper/Cleaning Services

Housekeepers and janitors work in residential, commercial, and industrial settings, ensuring clean and well-maintained spaces. This job does not require formal education, just attention to detail and reliability.

  • Salary: Housekeepers can earn between $25,000 and $35,000 annually.

  • Growth Potential: You can start a cleaning business or move into supervisory positions within large companies.

 

Dog Walker/Pet Care

As the demand for pet services grows, becoming a dog walker or pet sitter is a flexible and rewarding option. No diploma is needed, but a passion for animals and reliable scheduling are key to success.

  • Salary: Pet care services can generate anywhere from $20,000 to $40,000 annually, depending on location and clientele.

  • Growth Opportunities: Many pet care providers start their own pet-sitting businesses or expand into additional pet services, such as grooming or training.

Well-Paid Jobs for Accepting GED or Equivalent High School Graduates

More opportunities open up if you’ve completed a GED or high school diploma, especially in fields requiring certifications or vocational training. These jobs offer higher pay and more career advancement potential.

 

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) 

Air Traffic Controllers manage the safe and orderly flow of airplanes in the nation’s airspace. They coordinate takeoffs, landings, and in-flight aircraft to prevent collisions and minimize delays. While a college degree isn’t always required, candidates must complete the FAA Academy and need to pass rigorous testing and background checks. Quick decision-making, spatial awareness, and stress management are essential skills.

  • Salary: Air traffic controllers earn between $60,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience and location. 
  • Growth Potential: Controllers can move into supervisory or training roles, work at major hubs for higher pay, or transition into FAA management or aviation safety positions.

 

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

LPNs provide basic nursing care in hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes. To become an LPN, you’ll need a one-year certification, but it’s a gratifying job with great pay and job stability.

  • Salary: LPNs earn between $45,000 and $60,000 annually.

  • Career Growth: You can continue your education to become a registered nurse (RN), which offers higher pay and more responsibilities.

 

Electrician/Plumber

Skilled trades such as electrical work and plumbing offer high pay without needing a high school diploma. Becoming a licensed electrician or plumber requires an apprenticeship, but provides long-term job stability and a solid income.

  • Salary: Electricians and plumbers can earn anywhere from $50,000 to $75,000 annually, depending on experience.

  • Growth Potential: With experience, you can start your own business or move into higher-paying specialties within the trade.

 

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

CNAs work in healthcare settings, assisting patients with basic needs. Although becoming a CNA typically requires certification, it’s an excellent entry-level job in the medical field.

  • Salary: CNAs make about $30,000 to $40,000 per year.

  • Career Growth: CNAs can become RNs or pursue other healthcare specializations with additional training.

 

Auto Mechanic

Auto mechanics repair and maintain vehicles. This highly skilled profession doesn’t require a high school diploma, but vocational training and certification are necessary.

  • Salary: Auto mechanics earn between $35,000 and $60,000 annually, potentially earning more as a specialist.

  • Growth Potential: You can work up to become a lead mechanic or start an auto repair shop.

While a high school diploma can be helpful, it’s not the only route to a fulfilling and high-paying career. Many industries seek hardworking individuals willing to learn on the job and develop their skills over time. Plenty of opportunities are available, whether you’re a doer, organizer, or helper. Focus on gaining experience, certifications, or training, and success will follow.

 

Firefighter

Firefighters respond to emergencies, extinguish fires, and provide life-saving assistance. While a high school diploma is typically required, specialized training at fire academies and EMT certification are essential.

  • Salary: Firefighters earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, with opportunities for higher pay through advanced training and promotions.
  • Growth Potential: With experience, firefighters can advance to roles like fire captain, fire inspector, or chief.

 

Real Estate Agent

Real estate agents help clients buy, sell, and rent properties. While a diploma isn’t mandatory, completing a state-approved licensing course and passing the real estate exam are required.

  • Salary: Real estate agents can earn $45,000 to $100,000 annually, with income largely based on commission.
  • Growth Potential: Successful agents can become brokers, open their own firms, or specialize in commercial real estate.

 

Carpenter

Carpenters construct and repair structures using wood and other materials. Formal education isn’t required, but apprenticeship programs provide valuable hands-on training.

  • Salary: Carpenters earn between $35,000 and $65,000 annually, with the potential for higher wages as master carpenters.
  • Growth Potential: Carpenters can move up to roles like project manager, contractor, or construction supervisor.

 

Sound Engineering Technician

Sound engineering technicians operate and maintain audio tools and equipment for recordings, live events, and broadcasts. While a diploma isn’t necessary, HVAC technicians receive training in audio production.

  • Salary: Technicians earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, with specialized roles paying more.
  • Growth Potential: Technicians can advance to senior sound engineer or open a recording studio.

 

Solar Photovoltaic Installer

Solar PV installers set up and maintain solar panel systems for residential and commercial properties. A high school diploma isn’t mandatory, but specialized training and certifications are recommended.

  • Salary: Solar installers earn between $40,000 and $75,000 annually, with potential for higher pay as solar technology advances.
  • Growth Potential: With experience, installers can advance to project manager or sales specialist or start their own solar installation business.

If you’re looking to increase your earning potential without a high school diploma, plenty of high-paying jobs don’t require a degree. Positions like home health aides, tech industry, and welders offer solid income opportunities with the right vocational training programs. These roles often demand excellent customer service, strong communication, and problem-solving skills rather than formal education. 

According to the Department of Labor, jobs in maintenance and equipment cleaning associated with industrial settings can also provide steady paychecks. Additionally, many of these positions allow workers to build valuable experience and advance to higher-paying roles, proving that a lack of a diploma doesn’t have to limit your career prospects.

FAQs 

  • Can I get a good job without a high school diploma or GED?

Yes, many high-paying jobs are available in construction, delivery, and caregiving industries, even without a high school diploma.

  • What are the best jobs for people without a diploma?

Jobs in construction, delivery services, retail, and personal care can provide excellent pay and opportunities for advancement without a diploma.

  • Can I advance in my career without a high school diploma?

Absolutely! Many fields provide career growth through hands-on experience, certifications, and specialized training.