In today’s evolving job market, a bachelor’s degree isn’t the only path to a six-figure income. With skills-based hiring on the rise and advancements in online certifications, apprenticeships, and vocational training, more opportunities exist for high earners without a four-year credential. Fields like tech, trades, and management are leading this shift, fueled by labor shortages and automation. Below are 20 careers where experience, certifications, or associate degrees can lead to $100k+ salaries, based on median earnings and top percentiles from industry data.
1. Elevator Installer and Repairer
These specialists install and maintain elevators, often earning over $100,000 with apprenticeships and certifications. Median salary: $99,000; top earners exceed $120,000.
2. Power Plant Operator
Operators control systems in power plants, requiring vocational training or an associate degree. Median: $103,000; many hit $100k+ with overtime.
3. Nuclear Technician
Monitoring nuclear equipment demands specialized training, not a degree. Median: $100,000+; nuclear reactor operators average $122,000.
4. Air Traffic Controller
Federal training programs lead to this high-stress role. Median: $132,000; no degree needed beyond certification.
5. Commercial Pilot
Flight school and licenses suffice. Median: $121,000; experienced pilots surpass $165,000.
6. Real Estate Broker
Licensing exams and experience open doors. Top brokers earn $100k+ through commissions.
7. Fire Chief
Rise through ranks with fire academy training. Median: $100k+ in leadership roles.
8. First-Line Supervisor of Police
Promotions from officer roles, often via academy. Many earn $100k+ with experience.
9. Construction Manager
Project management certifications or associate degrees qualify. Median: $101,000; top: $160,000+.
10. Electrical Power-Line Installer
Apprenticeships lead to this utility role. Median: $82,000, but experienced workers hit $100k+.
11. Transportation Inspector
Certifications for inspecting vehicles or cargo. Many earn over $100k with federal roles.
12. Postmaster
Postal service experience and management training. Top earners: $100k+.
13. Detective or Criminal Investigator
Academy training and field experience. Median: $90,000; seniors exceed $100k.
14. Software Developer
Bootcamps or self-taught skills via platforms like Coursera. Median: $120,000+ for experienced devs.
15. Information Systems Manager
Certifications like CompTIA; experience over degrees. Median: $159,000.
16. Product Manager
Tech certifications and project experience. Median: $130,000+ in tech firms.
17. Sales Director
Proven sales track record; no degree required. Top earners: $130,000+ with commissions.
18. Voice-Over Artist
Freelance with home studios and talent agencies. Experienced artists: $134,000+.
19. Executive Chef
Culinary school or apprenticeships. Top chefs: $90,000+, but in high-end spots $100k+.
20. Technology Sales Manager
Sales certifications and tech knowledge. Median: $140,000+ with bonuses.
These careers highlight how targeted training, apprenticeships, and on-the-job experience can bypass traditional degrees. Success often requires dedication, networking, and continuous learning. With trends favoring skills over credentials, it’s a promising time to explore these paths—research local requirements and start building your skills today.
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