Jobs That Pay $150K a Year Without a Degree: Let’s dive into the world of high-paying jobs without needing a college degree. Many folks believe you have to go to college to snag a six-figure salary, but that’s not always the case. College can be expensive, and student debt is a real concern. As of 2022, the average student debt in the US is a whopping $37,787!
But fear not! There are jobs out there that pay a cool $150,000 a year without demanding that fancy degree. In this guide, we’ll explore how to nab these lucrative gigs, and how common they are, and let’s zoom in on some of the top jobs that don’t require you to spend years in a lecture hall.
Getting a job that pays six figures without a degree is doable! Tech, healthcare, and construction are some fields where you can hit that sweet $150,000 mark. Let’s talk about some cool jobs you can snag, and how you can land them without going through the college grind.
Also read: 23 Best jobs that pay $60K a Year Without a Degree
These 11 Jobs That Pay $150K a Year Without a Degree
Best Jobs That Don’t Require a Degree and Pay $150K a Year.
- Freelance Graphic Designer
- Gaming Channel on YouTube
- Data Scientist Manager
- Senior Product Manager
- Software Development Manager
- Senior Engagement Manager
- Chief Executive Officer
- Executive Assistant
- Applications Development Lead
- Software Test Manager
- Computer Architect
1. Freelance Graphic Designer
Imagine freelance graphic designers as magical creators who turn thoughts into pictures. They’re the ones behind cool stuff like posters, social media graphics, and logos for websites.
Now, here’s the awesome part: freelance graphic designers have this superpower called creative freedom. Unlike regular jobs in big companies, they get to pick from lots of different projects. It’s like having a big canvas to paint on, and they work with all sorts of clients, making their job even more interesting.
To be a great freelance graphic designer, you need to have a good sense of style – like knowing what looks cool. You also need to be buddies with graphic design tools, especially ones like Adobe Creative Suite.
2. Gaming Channel on YouTube
In the huge world of online fun, making a YouTube gaming channel is super exciting for gamers. It doesn’t matter if you play a lot or just enjoy talking about your gaming adventures – jumping into YouTube gaming is like starting a really fun adventure.
You can earn from many sources from one YouTube channel like affiliates, sponsorships, and Ads.
You can easily make $150,000 a year with the gaming channel. [Jobs That Pay $150K a Year Without a Degree]
3. Data Scientist Manager
Average Salary: $146,333
So, being a data scientist manager is pretty cool. You get to plan projects, lead a team of data wizards, and make super-smart decisions using all that data magic. The big win? You can pull in over 150k a year without needing a college degree.
Here’s the deal: first, dive into one of the top-notch data science boot camps. It’s like a crash course in all things data. Once you’ve got your foot in the door with an entry-level job, it’s game on. Work hard, gain experience, and grab some certifications. These badges of expertise will help you climb the career ladder to that sweet data scientist manager spot.
No need for a fancy degree – just your skills, dedication, and knack for turning data into gold.
Also read: Best Jobs that Pay $80 an Hour without a Degree
4. Senior Product Manager
Average Salary: $131,820
So, a senior product manager is like the captain of the product ship. They take a product idea and sail it to being a real thing everyone can use. They wear many hats – from making sure it’s marketed well to planning how it’s going to rock the sales charts.
Now, here’s the scoop: breaking into product management without experience or a degree might sound tough, but it’s doable. Big players like Facebook, Amazon, and Google don’t demand a computer science degree. What they do want is someone who knows their way around tech stuff, has a knack for business strategy, and can turn ideas into awesome products. [Jobs That Pay $150K a Year Without a Degree]
So, if you’re eyeing that 150k paycheck as a product manager, focus on building your technical know-how, mastering business strategies, and honing those product development skills
5. Software Development Manager
Average Salary: $130,520
So, a software development manager is like the captain of a team of computer whizzes. They make sure all the cool software stuff gets done smoothly. The cool part? You don’t need a super fancy four-year degree to be a software developer these days. But, if you’re eyeing that software development manager gig,
Here’s the deal: you gotta know your software stuff inside out, understand how to manage projects using Agile methods and be a people person. It’s not just about codes and programs; it’s about leading a team and making the software dreams come true.
Also read: 16 Best Jobs That Pay $5000 a Month Without A Degree
6. Senior Engagement Manager
A senior engagement manager is like a wizard in making sure clients are happy with a company. They’re the ones in charge of keeping awesome clients, helping the business grow, and hitting those big goals.
Now, here’s the cool part: you don’t have to go through the long journey of a four-year degree to be an engagement manager. What you do need is at least two years of education, like getting yourself an associate’s degree.
7. Chief Executive Officer
Average Salary: $90,807
So, imagine the CEO as the big boss of a company – they’re like the captain steering the whole ship. They have to make really important decisions that can make or break the company.
Here’s the cool part: to be a CEO, you don’t have to go through the long process of getting a degree. But, you’ve got to climb the ladder in a company, learn how to plan strategically, understand business tricks, and be a top-notch leader. [Jobs That Pay $150K a Year Without a Degree]
8. Executive Assistant
So, think of executive assistants as the superheroes behind the big bosses. They do all sorts of things like planning schedules, organizing meetings, handling messages, and sometimes making important decisions.
Here’s the cool part: you don’t need a super fancy four-year degree to be an executive assistant. What matters most is what you’ve done before, your skills, and how good you are at staying focused.
if you’re the type who can juggle lots of tasks, keep things organized, and handle important stuff when it comes your way, being an executive assistant could be the perfect fit.
9. Applications Development Lead
Think of Applications Development Leads as the captains of a team of tech experts. They don’t just handle the tech stuff; they also work with clients, chat with directors, and team up with other managers. It’s like being both a leader and a tech genius.
Here’s the cool part: you don’t need a fancy college degree to be an Applications Development Lead. Having a high school diploma or a GED is usually enough, but doing some extra courses, like getting an associate’s degree, can be a good move.
Imagine being the captain who not only understands tech but also guides the team through projects smoothly. That’s the life of an Applications Development Lead
As of the latest available data, Applications Development Leads in the United States can earn an annual salary ranging from $80,000 to $150,000 or more. [Jobs That Pay $150K a Year Without a Degree]
10. Software Test Manager
Average Salary: $113,217
Think of a software test manager as the captain of a team of software testers. They make sure the testing plans are spot-on and work closely with other engineers. Sometimes, they’re even considered the big shots in Senior DevOps positions.
Here’s the cool part: you don’t need a college degree if you know your stuff when it comes to test design and quality assurance. Having hands-on experience in these things is the real deal. And, of course, being a great leader is a must to steer and work smoothly with your team.
Imagine being the go-to person for making sure software works perfectly. That’s the life of a software test manager.
11. Computer Architect
A computer architect is like a computer mastermind. They’re experts who design and build computer systems, creating plans for different gadgets like processors, memory systems, and networks. To do this, they need to get computers – both the physical parts and the programs that make them run. They also stay up-to-date with what’s new and cool in the tech world.
These computer wizards usually work in the research and development sections of tech companies, places that make computer parts, or firms that advise on tech stuff.
Now, when it comes to how much they earn, it depends on things like how much they know, how long they’ve been doing it, where they work, and who they work for. According to info from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, their salaries can start from around $71,000 and go up to more than $176,000 a year. [Jobs That Pay $150K a Year Without a Degree]
Conclusion
In conclusion, the traditional notion that a college degree is the sole gateway to success is evolving. The job market now welcomes skilled individuals from various backgrounds and experiences. The key lies in identifying your passion, acquiring in-demand skills, and navigating non-traditional routes to lucrative careers. The opportunities are diverse, and success is within reach for those willing to explore beyond the conventional path. So, whether you’re charting data, leading teams, creating captivating designs, or building gaming communities, the journey to a six-figure income might be closer than you think.