It may sound too good to be true, but there are some jobs out there that can bring in significant salaries without a college degree. However, these careers do require specialized training. Payscale recently put together a list of jobs that don’t require a degree.
1. Freelance Photographer: Median Salary $47,800 Along with strong photography skills and special equipment, you’ll also need to be business savvy to get your business off the ground.
2. Private Detective: Median Salary $50,600 This one may sound exciting and glamorous but it will require a lot of work. You need to have knowledge of the law, psychology and critical thinking skills.
3. Elevator Mechanic: Median Salary $61,500 You may be required to work odd hours for this job and you must be knowledgeable of complex mechanical systems.
4. Nuclear Power Reactor Operator: Median Salary $79,100 This one is definitely a well-paying job, but you need to make sure you have an understanding of physics and engineering.
5. Personal Trainer: Median Salary $37,500 A lot of trainers have college degrees, but you can get a certification instead. Make sure you have skills in nutrition, anatomy, first aid and customer service, says the article.
6. Director of Security: Median Salary $62,400 This job really requires a lot of on-the-job training. You may start as an assistant and work your way up to director.
7. Air Traffic Controller: Median Salary $60,200 This is a competitive field and requires special testing from the FAA. It can also be a stressful one.