For decades, attending college as a means to get the best job possible was a right of passage for the majority of upwardly mobile Americans.
But aside from social mobility, does a college degree really equate to a better job in today’s job market. Or, is it an outdated status symbol that no longer has any real bearing on future employability?
According to data compiled by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, workers with graduate degrees had the lowest unemployment rates and highest earnings, compared to those who either finished their education at high school or didn’t complete a high school education.
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However, separate data conducted by the Burning Glass Institute and Strada Institute for the Future of Work found that a four-year college degree no longer guarantees a “college-level job” and only half of college graduates successfully secured employment in a college-level job within a year of graduation.
Additionally, with skills based hiring on the rise, on the job training along with apprenticeships and certifications are increasingly being favoured by school-leavers who want to side-step formal education and start working straight away with tens of thousands of tuition debt handing over their heads.
In fact, according to recent data released by Resume Genius, there are an increasing number of well-paying jobs with high employment prospects that don’t require a four-year college degree.
1. Elevator and escalator installer and repairer
Median annual salary: $102,420
Number of jobs (2023): 24,400
Estimated job growth (2023–2033): 6%
This role involves troubleshooting mechanical and electrical issues that arise with elevators and escalators. Other duties include installing and maintaining escalator and elevator equipment.
To get hired as an elevator and escalator installer and repairer you’ll need to complete a four-year apprenticeship and get a state license or certificate. You should also be aware that although the hours are mainly shift-based, you could be on call for emergencies that arise.
2. Transportation, storage, and distribution manager
Median annual salary: $99,200
Number of jobs (2023): 211,800
Estimated job growth (2023–2033): 9%
Transportation, storage and distribution managers are responsible for overseeing the flow of goods, for example, supply chain in a warehouse or loading goods onto trucks for nationwide or international distribution.
You don’t need a logistics degree to work as a transportation, storage or distribution manager but it’s a good idea to up skill via certificates if you do want to work in this field— the Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP), Certified in Logistics, Transportation, and Distribution (CLTD), or Lean Six Sigma can help boost your employment prospects.
3. Electrical power-line installer and repairer
Median annual salary: $85,420
Number of jobs (2023): 123,400
Estimated job growth (2023–2033): 8%
Electrical power-line installers and repairers are responsible for the installation and repair of power lines and cables. They are also essential workers after a storm or natural disaster hits and power lines need to be restored.
While you won’t need a degree for this job, you will need to ensure you don’t have a fear of heights.
4. Aircraft and avionics equipment mechanic and technician
Median annual salary: $75,400
Number of jobs (2023): 163,300
Estimated job growth (2023–2033): 5%
Aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians install, inspect and repair aircraft, ensuring that they are safe and flight-ready.
Although you don’t need a college degree, you will need to complete an FFA-approved program, for example a certificate in aviation maintenance technology. An alternative pathway into this profession is via military service.
5. Detective and criminal investigator
Median annual salary: $74,910
Number of jobs (2023): 796,800
Estimated job growth (2023–2033): 4%
Whether you’re a fan of true crime or want to pursue a career that champions civic duty, becoming a detective or criminal investigator can be a very rewarding job.
Detectives usually start as patrol officers and complete academy training, however certifications in specific areas such as cybersecurity or forensic evidence will allow you to specialise in specific areas.
6. Locomotive engineer
Median annual salary: $73,580
Number of jobs (2023): 83,000
Estimated job growth (2023–2033): 2%
Locomotive engineers drive passenger and freight trains, making sure every trip is completed safely. On-the-job training is the typical way to qualify in this field and all locomotive engineers will need to have a high school diploma.
7. Wholesale and manufacturing sales representative
Median annual salary: $73,080
Number of jobs (2023): 1,681,400
Estimated job growth (2023–2033): 1%
Essentially an intermediary between wholesales manufactures and retailers, a wholesale and manufacturing sales representative is usually employed by a wholesaler and sells directly to businesses.
This role can vary, usually involves travel, and skills and knowledge needed depend on the industry involved.
8. Athlete and sports competitor
Median annual salary: $70,280
Number of jobs (2023): 25,100
Estimated job growth (2023–2033): 11%
From the NFL to a local athletics team, the life—and salary—of an athlete depends on the sport they play and the level they are playing it at.
For example, Deshaun Watson, the quarterback for the Cleveland Browns is expected to earn $230 million thanks to his five-year contract which started in 2022 and is due to run until 2027.
9. Flight attendant
Median annual salary: $68,370
Number of jobs (2023): 130,300
Estimated job growth (2023–2033): 10%
If you’ve always dreamt of travelling the world, becoming a flight attendant is a great option.
Most airlines don’t require a college degree however you will need to get an FAA certification proving you’ve passed airline exams.
10. Construction and building inspector
Median annual salary: $67,700
Number of jobs (2023): 142,600
Estimated job growth (2023–2033): 0%
Construction can be extremely lucrative and extremely varied as a career.
As a construction and building inspector you will be responsible for verifying that construction projects meet local codes, zoning rules and safety standards.
Want a great new job in 2025? Find your next high-paying role today on The Hill Job Board
