Top 15 High-Paying Jobs for Gen Z Without a College Degree
As Gen Z reevaluates traditional career paths, many are seeking high-paying opportunities that do not require a college degree. Rising tuition fees and the influence of automation have prompted this generation to explore diverse career options. Numerous high-wage jobs are available that prioritize skills and training over formal education.
Top 15 High-Paying Jobs for Gen Z Without a College Degree
A recent report by Resume Genius highlights career paths with robust salaries and positive job growth. These roles require minimal formal education—often only a high school diploma and relevant training. Below is a list of the top 15 high-paying careers accessible to Gen Z:
1. Elevator and Escalator Installer and Repairer
Median Annual Salary: $106,580
2. Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Manager
Median Annual Salary: $102,010
3. Electrical Power-Line Installer and Repairer
Median Annual Salary: $92,560
4. Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanic and Technician
Median Annual Salary: $79,140
5. Detective and Criminal Investigator
Median Annual Salary: $77,270
6. Locomotive Engineer
Median Annual Salary: $75,680
7. Wholesale and Manufacturing Sales Representative
Median Annual Salary: $74,100
8. Flight Attendant
Median Annual Salary: $67,130
9. Property, Real Estate, and Community Association Manager
Median Annual Salary: $66,700
10. Water Transportation Worker
Median Annual Salary: $66,490
11. Food Service Manager
Median Annual Salary: $65,310
12. Heavy Vehicle and Mobile Equipment Service Technician
Median Annual Salary: $62,740
13. Athlete and Sports Competitor
Median Annual Salary: $62,360
14. Chef and Head Cook
Median Annual Salary: $60,990
15. Insurance Sales Agent
Median Annual Salary: $60,370
These roles illustrate that Gen Z has viable choices for plenty of rewarding careers without incurring the high costs of a four-year degree. According to Eva Chan, a career expert at Resume Genius, achieving a high-paying job is about exploring various paths, not just traditional education.
With the changing job landscape, Gen Z can successfully navigate their career development by considering these lucrative options. Each of the listed positions boasts strong job growth, making them attractive paths for young professionals entering the workforce.
