The truth is that in this economy, sometimes the most reasonable solution is to go straight to work. Many skip college to join the workforce earlier. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (2016), more than 60% of U.S. workers don’t have a bachelor’s degree. For those who have an associate’s degree, a postsecondary certificate, or a high school diploma, you can still land yourself a very high-paying job.
Here are the top 5 (according to the BLS).
1. Air Traffic Controllers
Average annual salary: $108,040
Degree required: Associate’s degree
Projected job openings: 10,200
Work experience: None
Description: Air traffic controllers monitor and direct the movement of aircraft (planes). The average salary of air traffic controllers is the highest of any profession where workers typically don’t need a bachelor’s degree.
On-the-job training: Long-term or on-the-job training
2. General and Operations Managers
Average annual salary: $94,400
Degree required: Associate’s degree
Projected job openings: 410,100
Work experience: 1-5 years
Description: General and operations managers coordinate an organization’s daily activities. They develop policies, oversee budget activities, or review sales reports.
On-the-job training: None
3. Construction Manager
Average annual salary: $83,860
Degree required: Associate’s degree
Projected job openings: 120,400
Work experience: More than 5 years
Description: Construction managers oversee construction projects from start to finish. They have to set timelines, prepare contracts, and manage budgets.
On-the-job training: None
4. Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers
Average annual salary: $80,210
Degree required: High school diploma
Projected job openings: 33,700
Work experience: More than 5 years
Description: Managers in transportation, storage, and distribution are in charge of operations that range from anything from railroads to shipping facilities. They manage budgets, set policies as well as standards, and direct purchasing.
On-the-job training: None
5. First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives
Average annual salary: $78,260
Degree required: High school diploma
Projected job openings: 38,700
Work experience: 1 to 5 years
Description: Supervisors of the police and detectives essentially have to coordinate activities of the members of the police force and make sure everything runs smoothly and according to the standards of the law.
On-the-job training: Moderate-term on-the-job training