To produce an above-average salary, you don’t need a college education. Here are 15 jobs that pay $30 per hour with little or no educational requirements. With tuition increasing by more than 25% in the previous decade, many prospective students are asking whether a four-year degree is worth it in terms of time and student debt.
College isn’t always a good investment, but it isn’t necessary for obtaining a lucrative profession. You may have an outstanding profession without having a university education.
To illustrate our point, we’ve compiled a list of $30-an-hour jobs in various industries without a degree. Some of these are trade professions that necessitate training or accreditation — but many do not. The possibilities may astound you.
Without a degree, plenty of work pays $30 per hour or more than a standard job.
There are several methods to make good money without putting four years of your life and thousands of dollars into a college degree, although in most cases, you’ll need some level of education or training to earn $30 per hour.
For this post, we’ve included jobs that don’t require a professional certification that takes less than one year to acquire. If you’re willing to put in more effort than that, see our “What about…?” section below.
Remember that we got the median wage data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics website and ranked occupations with the highest median wage first. This doesn’t necessarily imply that jobs are ordered in terms of their likelihood or promise; each field has advantages and disadvantages, so verify the job description (including its prospects) to see if it’s a good fit for you.
#1. Transportation, Storage, And Distribution Managers
Coordinate the transportation operations within an organization or the activities of organizations that provide transportation services.
Median Hourly Wage: $51.96
Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree preferred, but not required in some cases
Jobs in management usually require a four-year degree, but there are some exceptions. For example, you can become transportation, storage, and distribution manager without a degree if you have significant experience managing transportation operations. These jobs typically involve overseeing other people’s work and handling customer relations, so interpersonal skills are important.
#2. Power Distributors And Dispatchers
Coordinate, regulate, or distribute electricity or steam.
Median Hourly Wage: $50.54
Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in engineering preferred, but not required in some cases
Power distributors and dispatchers typically need a bachelor’s degree in engineering, but it is possible to find jobs in this field without one. In some cases, companies may prefer candidates who have a degree but are willing to train employees without one.
Interpersonal skills are important for this job, as power distributors and dispatchers must be able to communicate with people who may be experiencing an emergency. They also need to be able to make quick decisions under pressure.
#3. Commercial Pilot
Fly a variety of aircraft for commercial purposes.
Median Hourly Wage: $50.39
Education Requirements: Commercial pilot’s license
A commercial pilot’s license is required to fly for commercial purposes, but no specific educational requirements exist. However, most pilots have at least a high school diploma or equivalent.
Pilots must be able to pass a physical examination and have a vision that meets certain standards. They also must have good hearing and be able to speak English fluently.
#4. Elevator Installers And Repairers
Install, service, or repair elevators, escalators, moving walkways, and similar equipment.
Median Hourly Wage: $49.24
Education Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
Elevator installers and repairers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. They also must complete an apprenticeship or have previous experience working with Elevators.
Elevator installers and repairers must be able to lift heavy objects and work in tight spaces. They also must be able to read and follow blueprints.
#5. Lighting Technicians
Install, maintain, or repair lighting fixtures, wiring, or controls.
Median Hourly Wage: $48.03
Education Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
Lighting technicians typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some jobs may require the completion of an apprenticeship or certification from a vocational school.
Lighting technicians must be able to work in tight spaces and climb ladders. They also must be able to read and follow blueprints.
#6. Subway And Streetcar Operators
Drive trains or operate other rail vehicles to transport passengers.
Median Hourly Wage: $47.81
Education Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
Subway and streetcar operators typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some jobs may require the completion of an apprenticeship or certification from a vocational school.
Subway and streetcar operators must be able to pass a physical examination and have a vision that meets certain standards. They also must have good hearing and be able to speak English fluently.
#7. Electrical Power-Line Installers And Repairers
Install or repair cables or wires used in electrical power or distribution systems.
Median Hourly Wage: $47.59
Education Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent, although some jobs may require completion of an apprenticeship or certification from a vocational school
Most electricians have a high school diploma or equivalent, but it is possible to find jobs in this field without one. In some cases, companies may prefer candidates who have a degree but are willing to train employees without one.
Electricians must be able to lift heavy objects and work in tight spaces. They also must be able to read and follow blueprints.
#8. Police Officer/Detective
Median wage: $31.33 per hour.
About the position: Police officers are sworn to protect and defend individuals. They drive traffic, arrest suspects, question witnesses, maintain law and order, and so on. A police officer’s work can be dangerous but is seldom monotonous since they must perform many tasks.
How to get started: While it is not a prerequisite, serving in the military is a wonderful transition into law enforcement. The training and skills acquired in the armed forces are ideal for police officers.
Certain departments value volunteer experience, demonstrating a desire to serve and work with the general public. A career as a security guard or police officer could help you polish your resume for law enforcement work.
The initial years of a police officer’s career are spent in the Police Academy, where they must pass exams and complete training totaling at least 800 hours. Physical and mental exercises are involved in this training, which covers topics like firearm safety and accuracy, defensive tactics, and vehicle operations.
Where it goes: Police forces have a similar structure to the military, with a clear chain of advancement. Police officers may become corporal, sergeant, lieutenant, captain, and detectives. Detectives are different from patrol cops in that they spend most of their time investigating crimes rather than stopping offenses in progress.
Although the topic of the pursuit might seem to be a simple one, it’s intriguing. There are many possibilities for where I could have ended up if that situation had never occurred. After this discovery, I began writing about my experiences with law enforcement in hopes of shedding light on what motivated me to join such an all-encompassing profession and why others would as well.
#9. Construction And Building Inspectors
Median wage: $30.00 per hour.
About the work: Construction and building inspectors examine and approve/modify building plans. They ensure buildings comply with the code by monitoring the site and documenting their inspections.
Inspections are done by experts who examine plans, new builds, renovations, and additions. They identify any code issues and verify that the structure is safe.
How to Get Started: To be considered for a building inspector position, you’ll need several years of work experience in the field. Take a construction job or enroll in a mentoring program to familiarize yourself with the sector.
While not every state needs a license, passing the B1 Building Inspector Exam will give you credibility as an inspector and help you get hired. (Here’s more information on what the B1 Exam covers, including how it’s scored and what to expect.)
Even if you have no prior industry expertise, you can study for and take the exam independently.
Where it goes: Construction and building inspectors frequently work for a firm, a city, or a county. However, you may establish your own inspection business with just a few years of expertise and certification.
Freelancing Jobs and Businesses That Pay $30 An Hour or More Without a Degree
There are plenty of opportunities to make $30 an hour without a college degree.
#1. Salesperson
Median wage: $30.00 per hour.
About the work: Salespeople are the face of a company, responsible for acquiring new customers and maintaining relationships with current ones. They work in various industries, such as retail, automotive, and real estate.
The best salespeople are excellent communicators who can think on their feet and handle rejection. They’re also comfortable working long hours, as their income is often commission-based.
How to Get Started: No formal education is required to become a salesperson, although some employers may prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent. The best way to learn the ropes is through shadowing or working with a more experienced salesperson on the job.
Many companies also offer sales training programs, which can give you the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in the role.
Where it goes: With experience, salespeople can advance to management roles, such as sales manager or director of sales. Alternatively, they may move into related fields, such as marketing or business development.
Salespeople are the face of a company, responsible for acquiring new customers and maintaining relationships with current ones. They work in various industries, such as retail, automotive, and real estate.
The best salespeople are excellent communicators who can think on their feet and handle rejection. They’re also comfortable working long hours, as their income is often commission-based.
To become a salesperson, no formal education is required, although some employers may prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent. The best way to learn the ropes is through shadowing or working with a more experienced salesperson on the job. Many companies also offer sales training programs, which can give you the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in the role.
With experience, salespeople can advance to management roles, such as sales manager or director of sales. Alternatively, they may move into related fields, such as marketing or business development.
#2. Growth Marketer
Median wage: $32.81 per hour.
About the work: Growth marketers are responsible for driving growth and acquisition for their company through marketing channels such as paid advertising, email marketing, and content marketing.
They’re data-driven, results-oriented professionals who are always looking for new ways to improve their campaigns and grow their user base.
How to Get Started: A bachelor’s degree in marketing or a related field is typically required for this role. However, some employers may be willing to hire candidates with less experience if they have relevant skills and knowledge.
Growth marketers should have a strong understanding of digital marketing tools and tactics and analytical skills to track and measure their success. They should also be creative problem-solvers comfortable working in a fast-paced environment.
Where it goes: With experience, growth marketers can advance to senior marketing roles, such as director of marketing or chief marketing officer. They may also move into related fields, such as product management or business development.
#3. Web Developer
Median wage: $32.69 per hour.
About the work: Web developers are responsible for designing, building, and maintaining websites. They work with clients to understand their needs and create custom solutions using programming languages such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
Web developers must have a strong understanding of web development principles and be able to code in multiple programming languages. They should also be creative problem-solvers comfortable working in a fast-paced environment.
How to Get Started: A bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field is typically required for this role. However, some employers may be willing to hire candidates with less experience if they have relevant skills and knowledge.
Web developers should have a strong understanding of web development principles and be able to code in multiple programming languages. They should also be creative problem-solvers comfortable working in a fast-paced environment.
Where it goes: With experience, web developers can advance to senior roles, such as a lead developer or director of engineering. Alternatively, they may move into related fields, such as UX design or product management.
#4. Graphic Designer
Median wage: $30.42 per hour.
About the work: Graphic designers are responsible for creating visual concepts, using computer software or by hand to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers. They develop the overall layout and production design for advertisements, brochures, magazines, and corporate reports.
Graphic designers must have a strong understanding of design principles and be able to use various software programs, such as Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. They should also be creative problem-solvers comfortable working in a fast-paced environment.
How to Get Started: A bachelor’s degree in graphic design or a related field is typically required for this role. However, some employers may be willing to hire candidates with less experience if they have relevant skills and knowledge.
Graphic designers should have a strong understanding of design principles and be able to use various software programs, such as Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. They should also be creative problem-solvers comfortable working in a fast-paced environment.
Where it goes: With experience, graphic designers can advance to senior roles, such as creative director or art director. They may also move into related fields, such as UX design or branding.
#5. Writer/Editor
Median wage: $28.86 per hour.
About the work: Writers and editors are responsible for creating, writing, and editing content for publications, such as books, magazines, newspapers, websites, and blogs. They may also develop marketing materials, such as brochures and email campaigns.
Writers and editors must have excellent writing and editing skills. They should also be able to research and understand complex topics.
How to Get Started: A bachelor’s degree in English, journalism or a related field is typically required for this role. However, some employers may be willing to hire candidates with less experience if they have relevant skills and knowledge.
Writers and editors should have excellent writing and editing skills. They should also be able to research and understand complex topics.
Where it goes: With experience, writers and editors can advance to senior roles, such as chief editor or director of content. Alternatively, they may move into related fields, such as marketing or public relations.
#6. Real Estate Agent
Median wage: $23.54 per hour.
About the work: Real estate agents are responsible for helping clients buy, sell, and rent properties. They work with buyers and sellers to negotiate prices and complete paperwork. They also show properties to potential buyers and help them find financing options.
Real estate agents must be licensed by the state in which they work. They should also know about the local real estate market and have strong customer service skills.
How to Get Started: Most real estate agents complete a formal training program, such as a real estate certificate or associate’s degree. However, some states allow candidates to take the licensing exam without completing a formal education program.
Where it goes: With experience, real estate agents can advance to senior roles, such as broker or manager. Alternatively, they may start their real estate firms.
What About…
Jobs like these are frequently cited as jobs that pay $30 or more per hour. However, based on our study, they either fall just short of the $30 per hour threshold or require a degree.
Aircraft Mechanic
In the United States, aircraft mechanics typically make around $30 per hour. Although a college education is not required for this job, a comprehensive two to a three-year training program that resembles a college degree is needed.
Dental Hygienist
Dental hygienists typically make around $30 per hour. To become a dental hygienist, you need at least an associate’s degree in dental hygiene.
Dog Walker
Dog walkers typically make around $30 per hour. Although no formal education is required for this job, dog walkers must be comfortable working with dogs of all sizes and temperaments.
Personal Trainer
Personal trainers typically make around $30 per hour. Although no formal education is required for this job, personal trainers must have certification from a nationally recognized organization, such as the National Strength and Conditioning Association.
Phlebotomist
Phlebotomists typically make around $30 per hour. To become a phlebotomist, you must have a high school diploma. Some states also require phlebotomists to have a certification from an accredited organization, such as the National Phlebotomy Association.
Online Tutor
Online tutors typically make around $30 per hour. Although no formal education is required for this job, online tutors must be experts in their respective subject areas. They should also be comfortable using a variety of online tools and platforms.
Registered Nurse
Registered nurses typically make around $30 per hour. To become a registered nurse, you need at least an associate’s degree in nursing. Some states also require registered nurses to have a license from the state board of nursing.
Surgical Technologists
Surgical technologists typically make around $30 per hour. To become a surgical technologist, you need at least a postsecondary nondegree award. Some states also require surgical technologists to be certified by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Assisting.
Virtual Assistant
Virtual assistants typically make around $30 per hour. Although no formal education is required for this job, virtual assistants must be comfortable using various online tools and platforms.
How Much Is $30 An Hour In A Yearly Salary?
Assuming a 40-hour work week, $30 an hour is equivalent to an annual salary of $62,400. This is just below the national median income of $63,179 for all workers in the United States.
Jobs That Pay $30 An Hour: Wrap-Up
There are a variety of jobs that pay $30 an hour or more. While some of these jobs require a college degree, many do not. There are also a variety of jobs that pay just below $30 an hour. These jobs may require a college degree or special certification, but they are still good options for those looking to make a decent wage.
That said, be prepared to enhance your skills and abilities in some fashion. This may or may not include a college education. You can get your foot in the door by taking an entry-level position in your desired field, a compensated apprenticeship, a firm with an on-the-job training program, or working with a mentor.
The best way to find out if a job is a right fit for you is to research the duties and responsibilities of the position and the required qualifications. Once you understand what will be expected of you, you can make an informed decision about whether or not the job is right for you.
