Best Jobs That Pay $15 an Hour Without a Degree: These are jobs in the US that pay between $15 and $19 per hour. That is more than double the $7.25 federal minimum wage. You don’t need a degree for these jobs, and they come with extra perks and good opportunities to grow in your career.
Getting paid $15 per hour might not seem like a lot, especially when the average pay in the US is around $31.75 per hour. But here’s the thing about the jobs on this list: they’re usually starting positions that don’t need a college degree, and they offer chances to move up in your career.
Don’t be afraid to take a step back and move up step by step. Even rich and successful people like Jeff Bezos and Giorgio Armani began their careers with basic, minimum-wage jobs. If you choose a job from this list, you’ll be in a good spot right from the beginning because you’ll be making more than double the current federal minimum wage.
I’m going to share with you 29 job options that don’t need a college degree in this post. I got the information about the pay, educational needs, and skills required from reliable sources like pay.com, PayScale.com, and BLS.gov. Let’s explore these jobs.
These are 32 jobs that pay $15 an hour without a degree:
- Dog care taker
- Childcare Provider
- Works as a model
- Transcriber
- Wedding planner
- Game tester
- Crime scene cleaner
- Bank teller
- Psychiatric aide
- Certified nursing assistant (CNA)
- Freight broker agent
- Virtual assistant
- Delivery driver
- Gunsmith
- Registered behavior technician (RBT)
- Medical biller
- Social service assistant
- Phlebotomist
- Skincare specialist
- Jeweler
- Life coach
- Emergency medical technician (EMT)
- Piercer
- Psychiatric technician
- Influencer marketer
- Video editor
- Notary
- Fitness trainer
- Dental specialist helper
- Photographer
- Cookman
- House Cleaner
Dog care taker
Average Pay: $15.00 per hour
Dog walkers are people who take dogs for walks, just like the name says. It’s a great job for college students or anyone who wants a flexible outdoor job. Dog walkers often walk several dogs at the same time and usually work with a small number of clients. Sometimes, they might also have other tasks like giving the dogs a bath or feeding them.
Also read: 17 Jobs That Pay $35 an Hour Without a Degree
To be a dog walker, you don’t need any fancy education. You just have to love being active and really like dogs. But if you’re thinking about making a business out of it, you might want to get certified. Certifications like the one from Pet Sitters International (PSI) or the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS) can be a good idea.
Childcare Provider
Average Pay: $15.80 per hour
If you love kids, there are various job options for you. Schools often need aftercare teachers to look after children after school hours.
Typically, no experience is necessary; you just need to pass a background check. Even if it’s not a full-time job, it’s a good choice for those who want a flexible schedule and have free afternoons. [Best Jobs That Pay $15 an Hour Without a Degree]
If you’re looking for something full-time, you might consider becoming a nanny. Busy parents often need extra help with their young children, and you might still find a nanny job even if you don’t have previous experience with kids.
Works as a model
Average Pay: $15.34 per hour
Models are the people who wear and show off clothes and stuff in things like ads, TV ads, fashion shows, and other events. Their job is to get people interested and make the brand look good.
Models don’t need a formal education, but some might study fashion or modeling to learn more about it. In the past, modeling agencies had strict rules about things like weight, size, and height, but now they’re more open to different body shapes. If you want to be a model, learn about the business, find a photographer to help make a good portfolio of your pictures, and then try reaching out to local modeling agencies or attending open casting calls.
Also read: 25 Jobs That Pay $50 an Hour Without a Degree
Transcriber
Average pay: $15.37 per hour
People called transcriptionists change spoken words into written text. It’s a great job if you’re good at typing and pay close attention to details. The cool thing is, that many transcriptionists can work from home because the job is often done online. [Best Jobs That Pay $15 an Hour Without a Degree]
To be a transcriber, you usually just need a high school degree. It’s also helpful to know your way around common office programs like Microsoft Word and Excel. If you work for a company as a transcriber, they’ll likely train you on specific transcribing tools, like Rev or Express Scribe.
Wedding planner
Average Pay: $15.39 per hour
Bridal coordinators help couples plan their wedding day. They do things like organizing the schedule, managing the budget, taking care of guests, and coordinating with vendors. To be good at this job, bridal coordinators should be organized, and creative, pay close attention to details, and communicate well.
If you’re interested in becoming a wedding organizer, having a degree in hospitality and tourism management could be useful, but it’s not necessary. Many wedding coordinators start by working as assistants to more experienced planners. As they gain knowledge and skills, some of them go on to start their own wedding-planning business or work for wedding agencies.
Game tester
Average Pay: $15.48 per hour
Game testers have the best job in my opinion—they get paid to play video games and find any problems or bugs. They have to be good at paying attention to small details. Game testers also give feedback on how the game feels and its overall style.
Being a video game tester is great if you love playing games. But remember, it’s not just about having fun with the latest games; you’ll also need to play them for a long time and write detailed reviews. The good thing is, that you don’t need any special education for this job, and you can apply online on websites like Gametester. gg. If you get enough experience as a game tester, you might even consider getting into game development and learning some coding on the side. [Best Jobs That Pay $15 an Hour Without a Degree]
Crime scene cleaner
Average Pay: $15.53 per hour
Crime scene cleaners make sure that a place is really clean and germ-free. This is important to prevent sickness and make the property look like it did before.
To be a crime scene cleaner, you don’t need a college degree. What’s important is being able to work quickly and neatly all the time. Employers provide training on the job, where you learn how to deal with things like blood and other body fluids that can be risky. The training also covers how to take care of equipment and handle the emotional challenges that can come with this job.
Bank teller
Average Pay: $15.68 per hour
A bank teller’s job is to help customers with things like putting money in, taking out loans, and cashing checks. They also have to make sure customers are happy and quickly solve any problems they have.
Working as a bank teller is a great way to start a career in finance without needing a college degree. To be a bank teller, you should be good at paying attention to details, enjoy talking to customers, and stay calm under pressure. You’ll also need to pass a background check and be okay with basic math. While you don’t usually need official certifications for this job, having one, like the Certified Bank Teller or the American Bankers Association’s Bank Teller Certificate, can make you stand out and earn more money.
Mental health assistant
Average Pay: $15.93 per hour
People with mental health conditions get help from psychiatric assistants. They watch over patients, help them with daily tasks, and provide emotional support. Psychiatric assistants need to handle tough situations with calmness, professionalism, and care. [Best Jobs That Pay $15 an Hour Without a Degree]
Each state has its own rules for education requirements for psychiatric assistants. Usually, a high school diploma is needed. Many states also ask for a formal nurse assistant certification or at least one year of work experience in places where patients are cared for, like hospitals or assisted living facilities
certified nursing assistant (TNA)
Average Pay: $16.00 per hour
A certified nursing assistant (CNA) is a beginner in healthcare who takes care of patients by doing basic things like feeding, cleaning, and helping them move. They might also do small medical tasks such as checking vital signs or assisting other medical staff with equipment. CNAs work in places like nursing homes and hospitals, and in some states, they can also work in people’s homes.
To become a nursing assistant, you have to finish training designed for your state. You don’t need a medical degree, but you do have to pass a test after the training. Once you’re certified, you can work as a nursing assistant in your state. Working as a certified nurse assistant (CNA) is a great way to start a career in healthcare without needing a degree.
Cargo broker representative
Average Pay: $16.00 per hour
Freight broker agents are in charge of moving materials and goods. They do things like plan when to pick up, deliver, and store cargo. To make sure every shipment arrives on time and safely, freight broker agents have to talk clearly with truck drivers and customers.
To be a freight broker agent, you need at least a high school diploma or something similar. Your employer usually provides training, where you learn about tracking shipments, helping customers, and understanding transportation laws. If you want to start your own freight brokerage business, you might invest in certification programs, like the one offered by Georgia Southern University. These programs teach you how to run a freight brokerage, including important skills like sales strategies and understanding transportation laws. [Best Jobs That Pay $15 an Hour Without a Degree]
Virtual Assistant
Average Pay: $16.03 per hour
Virtual assistants help clients with various administrative tasks. This can involve things like scheduling appointments, booking flights, managing websites, and handling social media profiles. Most importantly, virtual assistants need to communicate well with clients to understand what they need. They also have to be good at organizing their time to get all their work done on time.
Most virtual assistants are freelancers who offer their services on popular job platforms like Fiverr and Upwork. You don’t need a formal degree for this job, but many virtual assistants choose to get certifications to show they are skilled and attract more clients who are willing to pay higher rates. While not mandatory, two good certifications to consider are the Certified Professional Virtual Assistant from ACGP and the Virtual Assistant Advanced Certificate from Delta University.
Delivery boy
Average Pay: $16.51 per hour
Delivery boy move things from one place to another, like delivering parcels or food. They need to know the area well to make sure deliveries are fast and efficient. Reading directions and maps is important so they can get to their destination quickly and not get lost.
To be a delivery driver, you must have a valid driver’s license. If you drive trucks, you might also need a commercial driver’s license (CDL). Many companies prefer hiring delivery drivers who have experience driving in cities and know the local neighborhoods. [Best Jobs That Pay $15 an Hour Without a Degree]
Gunsmith
Average pay: $16.78 per hour
Gunsmiths take care of and fix weapons, which can include anything from fixing broken parts to cleaning guns. They need to know a lot about guns to find and solve any problems. Gunsmiths also have to follow diagrams and instructions to repair things correctly.
To be a professional gunsmith, you need a valid Federal Firearms License (FFL), but you don’t need any specific education. Since gunsmiths often work with firearms, they have to pass a background check to find local apprenticeships in this field. After gaining practical experience, you might choose to further your studies with certification programs, like the Sonoran Desert Institute’s Associate of Science in Firearms Technology Degree.
Registered behavior Technician (RBT)
Average Pay: $16.97 per hour
Registered behavior technicians help people with autism learn the skills they need to live on their own. This includes teaching them how to take care of their body and emotions and helping them communicate better. To do this job well, it’s important to have certain qualities like being patient, understanding, and caring.
To become a certified behavior technician, you need to complete a certification course approved by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). After finishing the certification and passing the required exams, you must apply for a state license to work legally. Even though you don’t need a degree to be a certified behavior technician, it’s important to focus on passing the BACB if you want to do this job. [Best Jobs That Pay $15 an Hour Without a Degree]
Medical biller
Average Pay: $17.04 per hour
Medical billers are in charge of sending bills to patients and insurance companies for the medical services they get. This includes tasks like taking payments and submitting claims. To do this job well, medical billers need to know the codes for different medical procedures and diagnoses. They also have to talk to patients and insurance companies to solve any billing issues that may come up.
To work as a medical biller, you have to get special training. You can do this through certification programs, community college classes, or online courses. After finishing the required training, you also need to get certified by the American Medical Billing Association (AMBA).
Social service assistant
Average Pay: $17.29 per hour
Social service assistants help people and families with their feelings, money, and social problems. This can include things like helping them with paperwork and giving suggestions. To be good at this job, social service assistants need to be organized and good at communicating. They also have to keep their client’s information private and not share it with others.
To work as a social service assistant, you need to finish high school. But, because it’s an important job, many employers want you to have certain qualifications. One common certification is the Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) designation. Having these credentials is usually enough for most jobs in this field. After you get hired, you’ll get training on the job, which will teach you more about being a social service assistant. [Best Jobs That Pay $15 an Hour Without a Degree]
Phlebotomist
Average Pay: $17.46 per hour
Phlebotomists are the ones who take blood samples from patients. They can do this in a few ways, like using a needle or a finger prick. Phlebotomists need to be really good with their hands to get accurate blood samples. They also have to talk to patients nicely to make them feel comfortable during the process.
To be a phlebotomist, you need to finish a certification program from the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). After you finish the program and pass the exams, you have to get a license from your state to work legally.
Professional skincare
Average Pay: $17.55 per hour
People who specialize in skincare provide services like massages, facials, and waxing to the skin. To give the best care, they need to know different skin types. Skincare specialists also have to be really good at helping and talking nicely to their customers.
People who want to become skincare specialists must complete a cosmetology or esthetician program approved by the state after they finish high school. After finishing their program, they have to get a license from the state where they want to work. If they decide to work in a salon instead of starting their own business, they usually get hands-on training to learn the specific rules and ways of that salon. [Best Jobs That Pay $15 an Hour Without a Degree]
Jeweler
Average Pay: $17.61 per hour
Jewelers create, fix, and check jewelry. They need to be really good with their hands, have good coordination, and be creative to make or fix jewelry accurately. Jewelers also have to talk nicely with their customers to understand what they want.
Most jewelers learn their skills through on-the-job training, so you don’t need to go to school for it. However, some jewelers might choose to take classes at technical colleges or jewelry education centers. Formal training programs can be really helpful and give an advantage over those who teach themselves. After finishing the required practical training, jewelers need a license in the state where they work to create, fix, and sell jewelry.
Life coach
Average Pay: $18.00 per hour
Clients of life coaches receive assistance in achieving both their personal and professional objectives. To help their clients attain their intended goals, they collaborate with them to identify their areas of growth and develop workable plans. Additionally, life coaches offer continued accountability and assistance to make sure their customers are actually moving closer to their objectives. In addition to their services, some life coaches also market courses, books, and other materials they think will benefit their customers.
Most life coaches are self-employed, and you don’t need formal education for this job. However, the expectations from the people you coach may vary depending on the industry. For example, in health and wellness coaching, you might need to show your educational background. This can be as simple as having a wellness certification from a well-known organization, even if you don’t have a medical degree. [Best Jobs That Pay $15 an Hour Without a Degree]
Emergency medical technician (EMT)
Average Pay: $18.00 per hour
Emergency Medical Technicians, or EMTs, are the first people who help those in need of medical care. They check the person’s health and provide treatments like giving oxygen or doing CPR. If necessary, EMTs also take people to the hospital for more help.
To become an EMT, you need to finish a training program approved by the state and get CPR certification. Some EMTs may choose to get a paramedic certification by taking a more advanced training course. Paramedics can provide more advanced medical care, like giving IV fluids or medication.
Piercer
Average Pay: $18.00 per hour
Piercers have the job of putting holes in bodies. They talk with their clients to pick the right jewelry, clean the spot for piercing, and decide where to do it. To pierce the skin accurately and without causing extra pain or harm, piercers need to be really good with their hands and very precise. Also, they have to be good at talking with clients, especially if the clients are nervous about the piercing.
Piercers don’t have to go to school officially, but many do after taking a course from a trustworthy piercing place. In these classes, they learn about the body, safety rules, keeping things clean, and picking the right jewelry. After finishing the training, piercers need to get a license to do their job. [Best Jobs That Pay $15 an Hour Without a Degree]
Psychiatric technician
Average Pay: $18.27 per hour
Psychiatric technicians take care of people with mental health issues. They work closely with patients to help them handle their illness and deal with their symptoms. They also keep an eye on patients, noting any changes in behavior or emotions. They are allowed to give patients medication if a registered psychiatrist has instructed it.
Different states have different rules for people who want to be psychiatric technicians. Most states say psychiatric technicians need to finish a training program, like the one from the American Association of Psychiatric Technicians (AAPT), and have at least a high school diploma. Some states also ask for a license and certification after finishing the training program.
Influencer marketer
Average Pay: $18.74 per hour
Influencer marketers find and work with social media influencers to promote products or businesses. To do this well, they have to know who they want to reach and which influencers are good for that. Influencer marketers also need to be good at talking with influencers about deals and checking how well their promotions are doing.
People who are good at talking and love marketing can become influencers. They build their brands, often teaching themselves along the way. It’s a good idea to invest in reliable online digital marketing resources to build a strong foundation for your career. [Best Jobs That Pay $15 an Hour Without a Degree]
Video Editor
Average Pay: $19.00 per hour
Video editors are responsible for assembling raw footage, adding transitions and effects, and putting everything together to create the final product in animated or filmed content. They often work closely with directors and producers to make sure the finished product meets all creative requirements.
Video editors were traditionally trained in film schools. But since the dawn of the digital age, anyone can use the resources and learning materials used by video editors. This indicates that anyone motivated and interested in the field can pursue a career in it, and as platforms like YouTube become more widely used, there is a growing demand for video editors.
Fitness trainer
Average Pay: $19.00 per hour
Fitness trainers help people reach their fitness goals. This might involve creating workout plans, providing encouragement and support, monitoring progress, and giving advice on diet and nutrition. They work with both individuals and small groups. Some fitness trainers may also have the responsibility of managing a team of trainers or a fitness facility.
Different employers may have different requirements, so there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Many employers prefer candidates who have completed a personal trainer certification program from a recognized organization, such as the American Council on Exercise (ACE) or the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). Often, fitness trainers are also required to have a CPR/AED certification to help customers in case of an emergency. [Best Jobs That Pay $15 an Hour Without a Degree]
Dental specialist helper
Average Pay: $19.48 per hour
Dental assistants work with dentists and help take care of patients. They might take X-rays, prepare patients for treatments, clean tools, and give advice on oral hygiene. In some places, dental assistants may also be allowed to do simpler medical procedures like changing fillings and removing stitches.
To become a dental assistant, you must go through a dental aid education program approved by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). After that, you need to pass the right exam from the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) and finish a CODA-approved curriculum.
Photographer
Average Pay: $16.12 per hour
Photographers use their artistic skills to create pictures with a message or story. They work in various places like studios, weddings, corporate events, and news organizations. While cameras are the main tool, photographers can also use drones and telescopes for images. Besides taking pictures, photographers are responsible for processing and editing them.
You don’t really need formal qualifications to be a photographer. Technically, anyone with a smartphone or camera can call themselves a photographer. However, most pros have learned photography through online resources, community colleges, or trade schools. Some photographers also choose to specialize, like in wedding photography, to make their portfolio more appealing to clients in the same industry. [Best Jobs That Pay $15 an Hour Without a Degree]
Cookman
Average Pay: $15.36 per hour
If you love cooking, being a cookman is a great option. It’s a well-paying job that doesn’t require much experience, making it perfect for those who enjoy food.
To be a chef, you need to be good at working in a fast-paced kitchen. It’s important to be able to handle problems and come up with quick solutions.
House Cleaner
Average Pay: $15.20 per hour
A house cleaner is a person who organizes and cleans houses. They clean various living spaces by dusting, vacuuming, and mopping. House cleaners help create a neat and comfortable living environment.
This job is perfect for those who enjoy cleaning and organizing, and it doesn’t usually require a formal degree. It’s a great option for people who like to keep their spaces organized.
Conclusion
There are many jobs in the US that pay between $15 and $19 per hour, which is more than double the minimum wage set by the government. These jobs often come with additional benefits and the chance to move up the career ladder, and you don’t need a college degree to get started. While $15 per hour might not sound like a lot compared to the average pay, these jobs are usually starting points that don’t require higher education and provide opportunities to progress in your career.
You can start a job in many professions without a formal degree. Jobs like taking care of dogs, being a model, transcribing, planning weddings, testing games, working at a bank, helping in mental health, nursing assistance, managing freight, virtual assistance, delivering goods, fixing guns, handling medical bills, aiding social services, drawing blood as a phlebotomist, skincare, making jewelry, coaching life, marketing as an influencer, editing videos, notarizing documents, training in fitness, assisting in dental care, taking photos, and cooking as a chef are some examples.
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