Here is a list of five trades where you can earn more than $61,000 a year in the United States and that do not require a college degree and only with your high school diploma or equivalent.
Author, Jorge Auristondo Vilches
To make good money in the United States you do not need to be a university professional or crush your head for years, the great industrialization of the country requires hundreds of very well paid trades that you can perform only with your high school or middle school diploma.
1. Rail car repairer
- Median annual salary: $61,000
- Number of jobs (2023): 22,600
- Estimated job growth (2023–2033): 9%
- Typical educational requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
Job responsibilities for rail car repairers.
Railcar repairers keep trains running smoothly by doing maintenance work on railcars. Their job involves hands-on tasks like fixing brakes and checking for structural issues.
While the job can be physically demanding, the repetitive nature of the work means you know what to expect, helping to keep stress levels low. There is a strong demand for skilled repairers, and this role offers solid pay and job stability in a predictable, steady environment.
2. Taper
- Median annual salary: $57,010
- Number of jobs (2023): 136,600
- Estimated job growth (2023–2033): 3%
- Typical educational requirements: No formal educational credential
Job responsibilities for tapers.
Tapers are essential to the construction process as they seal seams and smooth wall surfaces to prepare them for painting or finishing. Their work is hands-on and detail-oriented, following repetitive techniques that make the job steady and predictable.
While it can be physically demanding, the satisfaction of creating flawless walls and knowing what to expect each day keeps stress levels low. There is no shortage of demand in construction and renovation, and this role will offer reliable pay and job stability in a straightforward, rewarding trade.
3. Pump operator
- Median annual salary: $54,690
- Number of jobs (2023): 11,700
- Estimated job growth (2023–2033): 5%
- Typical educational requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
Job responsibilities for pump operators.
Pump operators manage pumps that transfer liquids, gases, or powdered materials. They usually have a predictable workday, monitoring equipment and making adjustments.
You know what to expect and the structured nature of the tasks helps keep stress low. With strong demand in fields like oil and gas, manufacturing, and construction, pump operators will have job security plus a decent salary.
4. Tire builder
- Median annual salary: $54,080
- Number of jobs (2023): 20,700
- Estimated job growth (2023–2033): 3%
- Typical educational requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
Job responsibilities for tire builders.
Tire builders use specialized machinery to craft durable, high-quality tires.
The work is hands-on and requires precision, but the step-by-step process makes it predictable and manageable. While it can be physically demanding, it’s a steady job with strong demand in the automotive and manufacturing industries, offering a good wage and the satisfaction of building something essential every day.
5. Craft artist
- Median annual salary: $52,910
- Number of jobs (2023): 54,000
- Estimated job growth (2023–2033): 3%
- Typical educational requirements: No formal educational credential
Job responsibilities for craft artists.
Craft artists use their imagination to create unique pieces like pottery, jewelry, textiles, and more. Their work involves creativity and hands-on skills, allowing them to design and produce art that reflects their vision.
While it requires focus and dedication, the flexibility to set their own pace and style makes it a fulfilling, low-stress career. With a growing appreciation for handmade and one-of-a-kind goods, craft artists can find opportunities to earn through galleries, markets, and online shops, turning their passion into a rewarding livelihood.
☆ SOURCE —> U.S. BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS OCCUPATION FINDER.