Top Jobs that Don’t Require a College Degree

When it comes to finding in-demand jobs that pay well, things can be tough without a college degree. For many, it becomes the driving force behind finishing a degree, which can be expensive.

Fortunately, there are many great jobs available to candidates without degrees. Many of these jobs require little more than a high school diploma or equivalent experience. Others need time spent as an apprentice or certificate programs to start a career. Here are a few options to explore.

Warehouse and Logistics Managers

Warehouses are hives of constant activity. The success of any warehouse-based business relies on organization and coordination. That is the world of warehouse and logistics managers. Balancing the demand for stored goods with the output of their team, they ensure businesses keep running smoothly.

In this field you are responsible for analyzing costs, developing budgets and complying with government regulations. You’ll also be expected to negotiate with equipment dealers, transportation service workers, and end-users to find optimal service while keeping costs within budget constraints.

While you will need experience in the field to enter management, this job only requires a high school diploma or equivalent experience. With strong national demand for this job and a high mean annual salary, this is a strong option for candidates looking for a career without a college degree.

Sales Staff

As long as companies continue to make products or provide services, they will need people to sell them. Almost all non-technical sales positions require little more than a high school diploma to get started. Of course, you’ll require training related to your specific industry; most companies will provide you with relevant training or mentorship.

For those looking to advance in the sales industry, voluntary certification can be helpful. Programs such as the Certified Sales Professional (CSP) offered by the Manufacturers’ Representatives Education Research Foundation are great, but they do require yearly re-certification.

Although compensation will vary depending on industry and experience, the outlook is stable, especially without a degree. The demand for Sales Representatives is also high, making it a great potential career.

General Maintenance and Repair

Most industries rely heavily on machinery to drive their business. When those machines break down, they turn to maintenance and repair technicians to get them up and running again. While many careers will require on the job training or vocational tech certifications, this is an in-demand career field.

General maintenance and repair workers fix and maintain machines, mechanical equipment, and buildings. They often carry out many different tasks in a single day and work at a variety of indoor and outdoor locations. They may work inside a single building, such as a hotel or hospital, or be responsible for the maintenance of many buildings, such as those in an apartment complex or on a college campus.

Another feature of this industry is the ability to move up into supervisory roles. These supervisors oversee maintenance teams and ensure projects are on time and completed well. With minimal training and experience, this field is another excellent option without a degree.

Administrative Assistant

If office work is what you’re seeking many clerical positions require little more than a high school diploma. Administrative Assistants are vital to many organizations and can open a great future in business.

Administrative provide office support and organizational duties to almost every industry. Most entry-level positions require basic computer skills, while certain sectors will provide further training that covers industry-specific knowledge.

Because of the high demand for this position, finding an opening can be relatively quick and easy. As you progress in experience, other administrative positions will become available with increased compensation attached.

If you’re looking to break into a new field or to change industries, Reliable Resources can help you find the position that fits your experience and career goals.

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