10 High-Paying Jobs with Little Schooling Required

Here’s a look at some high-paying jobs you can pursue with minimal schooling:

1. Commercial Pilot

• Average Salary: $99,640 per year

• Education Requirement: High school diploma + flight training

• Description: Commercial pilots operate non-scheduled flights, which can include charter flights, aerial photography, and firefighting. Training generally involves flight school and obtaining a commercial pilot's license from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

2. Radiation Therapist

• Average Salary: $86,850 per year

• Education Requirement: Associate degree or a certification program

• Description: Radiation therapists work with oncologists to administer radiation treatments to cancer patients. An associate degree in radiation therapy, plus certification or licensure, is typically required for this field.

3. Dental Hygienist

• Average Salary: $77,810 per year

• Education Requirement: Associate degree

• Description: Dental hygienists work alongside dentists to clean patients' teeth and educate them on oral health. Programs usually take around two years to complete and require passing a state licensure exam.

4. Electrician

• Average Salary: $60,040 per year

• Education Requirement: High school diploma + apprenticeship

• Description: Electricians install and repair electrical systems in homes, businesses, and industrial facilities. An apprenticeship (typically four years) provides hands-on training, and many states require licensure.

5. Wind Turbine Technician

• Average Salary: $56,260 per year

• Education Requirement: Technical certification

• Description: Wind turbine technicians maintain and repair wind turbines. Training usually involves a technical program that takes less than two years and includes hands-on experience.

6. Real Estate Agent

• Average Salary: $51,220 per year (with potential to earn more based on sales)

• Education Requirement: High school diploma + real estate licensing courses

• Description: Real estate agents help clients buy, sell, and rent properties. After completing licensing requirements, agents work on commission, allowing for high earnings potential based on performance.

7. HVAC Technician

• Average Salary: $50,590 per year

• Education Requirement: Certification or associate degree

• Description: HVAC technicians install, repair, and maintain heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Programs typically take six months to two years, and many technicians undergo on-the-job training as well.

8. Plumber

• Average Salary: $59,880 per year

• Education Requirement: High school diploma + apprenticeship

• Description: Plumbers install and repair pipes in homes and businesses. An apprenticeship provides necessary training, and many states require licensure, but schooling is minimal.

9. Web Developer

• Average Salary: $77,030 per year

• Education Requirement: Self-taught or associate degree

• Description: Web developers design and build websites. Many successful developers are self-taught or have a certificate in coding, though an associate degree can be helpful for structured learning.

10. Police Officer

• Average Salary: $67,290 per year

• Education Requirement: High school diploma + police academy training

• Description: Police officers enforce laws, respond to emergencies, and maintain public safety. Requirements vary by state but generally include academy training and passing a licensing exam.

These careers prove that high-paying roles aren’t limited to those with bachelor’s or master’s degrees. By exploring these options, you can enter a rewarding, lucrative career path with less time in school and a faster path to earning.

For the most current salary information, refer to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics or salary comparison platforms like Glassdoor or PayScale.