College degrees aren’t the only path to a high-paying career. If you’ve ever wondered what jobs pay $50 an hour without a degree, you might be surprised at the number of opportunities available.
Many industries value skills, experience, and certifications just as much—if not more—than a traditional diploma.
Whether you’re looking for a fresh start, a career change, or simply a job that pays well without years of student debt, this guide is for you.
From creative roles to technical trades, we’ll explore high-paying jobs that don’t require a degree—so you can start earning what you deserve.
What Jobs Pay $50 An Hour Without A Degree?
Wondering what jobs pay $50 an hour without a degree?
You might be surprised to learn that many well-paying jobs don’t require a four-year college education.
While a degree can be beneficial, it often comes with high costs and years of study.
Fortunately, there are plenty of career paths where experience, certifications, or on-the-job training can help you land a high-paying role without a formal degree.
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10 Jobs That Pay $50 an Hour Without a Degree:
If you’re searching for jobs that pay $50 an hour without a degree, you have plenty of options across various industries. From creative roles to technical fields, here are 10 high-paying careers that don’t require a college diploma.
Salary data is sourced from Lightcast™, and job outlook data comes from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) as of April 2024.
Here are top 10 high paying jobs without a degree:
Communications Manager
Social Media Manager
Commercial Pilot
Makeup Artist
Senior Real Estate Manager
Air Traffic Controller
Subway Operator
Distribution Manager
First-Line Supervisor of Police
Medical Dosimetrist
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1. Communications Manager
Although a degree can be helpful, you can become a communications manager with strong writing skills, leadership abilities, and experience in public relations or marketing.
This role involves managing a company’s brand, interacting with the media, and overseeing communication strategies.
- Average Annual Salary: $96,289.04
- Job Outlook (2022–2032): 6% (Faster than average)
In addition to writing press releases and handling public relations, communications managers often work closely with executives to shape a company’s messaging and reputation.
They may also oversee social media teams, coordinate corporate events, and implement crisis communication strategies.
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2. Social Media Manager
If you’re looking for jobs that pay $50 an hour without a degree and enjoy creating content, social media management could be a perfect fit.
In this role, you’ll develop marketing campaigns, create engaging content, and interact with customers across social media platforms. Strong creativity and analytical skills are key.
Average Annual Salary: $139,051.42
Job Outlook (2022–2032): 6% (Faster than average)
Social media managers also monitor trends, track performance metrics, and collaborate with influencers or brand ambassadors.
They must be adaptable, as social media strategies evolve quickly based on audience behavior and algorithm changes.
Also Read: 25 High pay IT job without coding
3. Commercial Pilot
Becoming a commercial pilot doesn’t require a college degree, but you will need to earn a commercial pilot’s license through an FAA-certified training program.
This career allows you to operate aircraft for private charters, aerial tours, or other commercial purposes.
Average Annual Salary: $117,201.68
Job Outlook (2022–2032): 4% (Average)
Commercial pilots often work irregular schedules, including overnight flights and weekends.
However, the role is highly rewarding for those who love flying and traveling. Additional certifications, such as an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) license, can open up more opportunities in this field.
Also Read: 45 Best careers for future that pay highly
4. Makeup Artist
If you have a passion for beauty and creativity, becoming a makeup artist can be a fantastic career option.
While a degree isn’t required, you will need an esthetician or cosmetology license, depending on state regulations. Makeup artists can work in salons, on film sets, or as freelancers.
Average Annual Salary: $193,519.38
Job Outlook (2022–2032): 9% (Faster than average)
Beyond applying makeup, successful artists stay updated on beauty trends, experiment with new techniques, and build strong client relationships.
Networking and social media marketing play a crucial role in attracting high-paying clients.
5. Senior Real Estate Manager
Real estate management offers high earning potential without a degree. By gaining certifications and experience, you can advance to senior roles overseeing property operations, leases, and financial planning.
Strong communication and negotiation skills are essential.
Average Annual Salary: $96,446.09
Job Outlook (2022–2032): 5% (Faster than average)
Real estate managers often work with property owners, contractors, and tenants. Those who specialize in high-end commercial properties or luxury rentals tend to earn higher salaries.
Licensing requirements vary by state.
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6. Air Traffic Controller
Air traffic controllers play a crucial role in aviation safety, guiding aircraft to prevent collisions and delays. You don’t need a degree, but you must complete FAA training and exams.
This job requires intense concentration and decision-making skills.
Average Annual Salary: $130,832
Job Outlook (2022–2032): 1% (Little to no change)
Controllers work in high-pressure environments and must be comfortable handling stress. The role offers excellent benefits, including government pensions, but shifts can be demanding.
7. Subway Operator
Although starting salaries may be lower, subway operators often earn higher wages with overtime and experience. Employers provide specialized training, and no degree is required.
Average Annual Salary: $75,878.40
Job Outlook (2022–2032): 1% (Little to no change)
Operators must follow strict safety protocols, manage passenger interactions, and report mechanical issues.
This role is ideal for individuals who prefer structured schedules and hands-on work.
8. Distribution Manager
Distribution managers oversee logistics, inventory, and supply chain operations. While a degree can be helpful, many professionals gain expertise through on-the-job training and industry certifications.
Average Annual Salary: $104,254.14
Job Outlook (2022–2032): 8% (Faster than average)
This role requires excellent organizational and leadership skills. Distribution managers often work in warehouses or corporate offices, ensuring smooth operations for product shipments.
9. First-Line Supervisor of Police
This leadership role in law enforcement does not require a degree, but candidates must have several years of experience as a police officer. Supervisors manage officers, assign cases, and oversee department operations.
Average Annual Salary: $99,403.20
Job Outlook (2022–2032): 3% (Average)
In addition to enforcing the law, they handle administrative tasks, investigations, and community relations. Strong leadership and decision-making skills are crucial in this field.
10. Medical Dosimetrist
Medical dosimetrists play a critical role in cancer treatment, calculating precise radiation therapy doses. Instead of a degree, most professionals complete a certification program in medical dosimetry.
Average Annual Salary: $134,948.34
Job Outlook (2022–2032): 3% (Average)
This career requires strong math, physics, and medical knowledge. Dosimetrists work closely with oncologists and radiation therapists in hospitals or cancer treatment centers.
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Tips for Entering High-Paying Fields Without a Degree:
Here are some tips for entering into high paying careers without a degree:
Boost Your Skills – Develop industry-specific expertise through self-learning or hands-on experience.
Take Online Courses – Many platforms offer affordable training to help you gain knowledge and credentials.
Join Professional Organizations – Networking can open doors to new job opportunities.
Earn Certifications – Certifications can prove your competency and increase job prospects.
Start Your Own Business – Entrepreneurship is another route to earning a high income without a degree.
By taking these steps, you can secure a high-paying job without a traditional college education and build a successful career in an industry you enjoy!
Final Thoughts:
Finding what jobs pay $50 an hour without a degree isn’t as hard as you might think. With the right skills, training, and determination, you can build a successful career in industries that value experience over formal education.
Whether you choose to become a commercial pilot, social media manager, or air traffic controller, there are plenty of opportunities to earn a great income without the burden of a college degree.
The key is to keep learning, gain hands-on experience, and take advantage of certifications that can boost your qualifications.
If you’re ready to take the next step, start exploring your options today—your dream job could be closer than you think!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Yes! Many high-paying jobs prioritize skills, experience, and certifications over formal education. Roles like air traffic controller, makeup artist, and commercial pilot can all pay $50 an hour or more without requiring a degree.
Industries such as aviation, real estate, law enforcement, beauty, transportation, and management offer well-paying positions without requiring a traditional four-year degree. Many of these jobs require certifications, training, or work experience instead.
Some jobs, like medical dosimetrist or air traffic controller, require certifications or specialized training. Others, like social media manager or real estate manager, focus more on skills and experience.
Start by learning relevant skills, gaining hands-on experience, and obtaining necessary certifications. Consider online courses, apprenticeships, or industry-specific training to boost your qualifications.
“Easy” is subjective, but freelance makeup artists, social media managers, and real estate managers often have flexible career paths with low educational barriers compared to technical roles like pilots or dosimetrists.
Yes! Many remote roles, such as freelance writing, digital marketing, and IT consulting, can pay $50 an hour or more with the right skills and experience.
It varies by profession. Some careers, like makeup artistry or social media management, can start earning quickly with the right skills. Others, like air traffic control or commercial piloting, require months or years of training and certification.
Absolutely! Many entrepreneurs, freelancers, and self-employed professionals make well over $50 an hour in fields like coaching, consulting, beauty, and creative services.
Yes! Many of these careers, such as real estate management, aviation, and distribution management, have strong growth potential and room for advancement.
Look for job boards, industry certifications, online courses, and professional networking groups related to your field of interest. Websites like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Upwork can help you connect with high-paying job opportunities.
Hey, I am Sachin Ramdurg. I run and manage futuredecider.com website that helps students, graduates, and professionals, to find and decide on their future career with ultimate future career advices and future career guides. I have an overall 12+ years of career guidance experience in multiple domains which has helped multiple students, graduates, and professionals to find the best career path for their future.