9 well-paying jobs that don’t require a degree

Richard Branson, Mark Zuckerberg and Lady Gaga all have two things in common: 1) They are incredibly successful; 2) They are college dropouts. While it’s common belief that in order to be successful and make a lot of money you need to have a college degree, these entrepreneurs, intellectuals and celebrities prove that’s not necessarily true.

Sure, college-educated workers may have access to more opportunities and, on average, make more money than workers without degrees, but college isn’t for everyone. Some people just don’t want to take that direction in life, while others may have financial or personal reasons for forgoing higher education. And just because someone doesn’t have a college diploma hanging on his wall doesn’t mean he can’t find a fulfilling job with a steady income.

While we can’t all be the founder of a ubiquitous social network or an international pop star, there are still a variety of jobs available that pay well, no college diploma required. These jobs may offer extensive on-the-job training or value real-life experience over a college education. While every company is different, and some employers may prefer that employees attain certain degrees or certifications, here are nine jobs that don’t require a degree in order to get hired:

1. Administrative services manager*
What they do: Administrative services managers plan, direct and coordinate support services in an organization. Their responsibilities vary and may include keeping records, distributing mail and planning and maintaining facilities. Experience in managerial and leadership roles is often required or preferred.
Typical education level that most workers need to enter this occupation: High-school diploma or equivalent
Average annual pay: $86,720

2. Claims adjuster, examiner and investigator
What they do: Workers employed in this occupation evaluate insurance claims. They decide whether an insurance company must pay a claim, and if so, how much is owed. Employers may prefer that workers have some prior insurance experience or vocational training in a related subject.
Typical education level that most workers need: High-school diploma or equivalent
Average annual pay: $61,110

3. Crane and tower operator
What they do: These material-moving machine operators use machinery, such as cranes and forklifts, to transport objects. Some workers in this role move construction materials around building sites or earth around a mine, while others transport goods around a warehouse or onto and off of container ships. Machine repair and inspections may also be part of the job. These workers usually get about a month’s worth of on-the-job training.
Typical education level that most workers need: Less than high school
Average annual pay: $50,040

4. Derrick operator, oil and gas
What they do: These oil and gas workers execute drilling plans designed by petroleum engineers. They operate equipment that digs wells and removes oil or gas. Most companies require that workers be at least 18 years of age and in good physical condition. Workers may also need to pass a drug test.
Typical education level that most workers need: Less than high school
Average annual pay: $47,120

5. Elevator installer and repairer
What they do: Elevator installers and repairers install, fix and maintain elevators, escalators, moving walkways and other moving/transportation machinery. Some states may require licensure in order to work in this role. Most workers in this field participate in a formal apprenticeship before entering the field full time.
Typical education level that most workers need: High-school diploma or equivalent
Average annual pay: $73,560

6. Electrical and electronics installer and repairer, transportation equipment
What they do: These workers install, repair or replace various types of electrical equipment in telecommunications, transportation, utilities and other industries. While a high-school diploma may be enough for workers to find employment, some do gain voluntary certification to learn the required skills.
Typical education level that most workers need: Postsecondary non-degree award
Average annual pay: $52,080

7. Loan officer
What they do: Loan officers evaluate, authorize or recommend approval of loan applications for people and businesses. Most workers in this field gain on-the-job training within the first few months of employment.
Typical education level that most workers need: High-school diploma or equivalent
Average annual pay: $67,960

8. Nuclear power reactor operator
What they do: As a nuclear power reactor operator, you’re tasked with moving control rods, starting and stopping equipment, monitoring and adjusting controls and recording data. You may also have to implement emergency procedures when needed. Many companies require potential employees to take the Edison Electrical Institute’s Power Plant Maintenance and Plant Operator exams to gauge whether they have the right aptitudes to succeed in this occupation.
Typical education level that most workers need: High-school diploma or equivalent
Average annual pay: $77,550

9. Subway and streetcar operator
What they do: Subway and streetcar operators transport passengers in both urban and suburban areas. The vehicles they drive travel underground, on above-ground and elevated tracks, on streets or on separate tracks. Several months of on-the-job training are usually required to perform in this role.
Typical education level that most workers need: High-school diploma or equivalent
Average annual pay: $59,400

*All average annual pay figures, job descriptions and education levels are from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.