10 In Demand Jobs (That Don’t Require a College Degree)

The “great resignation” is upon us. That is, millions of workers are quitting their current jobs in search of better pay, more flexibility, improved benefits and more. It’s been a constant throughout the pandemic and is helping contribute to the current worker shortage as companies struggle to fill open positions.

And while much of the focus is on worker shortages from the perspective of the various companies that are looking to fill vacancies, let’s not forget about the opportunities for the workers as well. It’s a worker’s market out there right now, and part of the reason for this “great resignation” is because there’s plenty of opportunity for Americans to better their current career or even to switch gears and begin a new career. In this post, we’ll focus on some of the most in-demand, good-paying jobs that don’t require a college degree for those Americans who are looking for a career change. Considering that college costs have increased by about 25 percent and Americans as a whole owe nearly $2 trillion in student loans, switching gears in this manner can have its benefits.

Here’s a closer look:

Top 10 In-Demand Jobs

Per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and reported via CNBC, here’s a look at some of the hottest jobs that you don’t need a four-year degree to qualify for:

1. Wind turbine technician: With an average pay of more than $56,000, this profession is expected to grow by nearly 70 percent as America moves toward a renewable energy future.
2. Solar panel installers: These positions average more than $46,000 per year and don’t require anything more than a high school diploma.
3. Occupational therapy specialists: An associate’s degree is required for this position, which averages nearly $63,000 per year.
4. Physical therapy assistants: This profession is expected to increase by about 35 percent. The average professional earns about $60,000 per year.
5. Home health care/personal care aid: This profession is expected to increase by about 32 percent and only requires a high school diploma.
6. Massage therapist: As more Americans focus on personal health and muscle recovery, massage therapy becomes more popular. These professionals average about $43,000 per year.
7. CNC programmers: Working in a machine shop programming equipment earns an average of about $58,000 per year.
8. Physical therapy aides: Again, as more people look toward personal health and recovery, these professions become more important.
9. Forest fire inspectors, prevention specialists: The only good thing about the increase in forest fires throughout the country is that they offer employment opportunities. This profession is one of them, and it can earn professionals an average of more than $42,000 per year.
10. Enrichment teachers: Earn about $40,000 per year as an enrichment teacher. The profession is expected to grow by about 23 percent.

Are any of these positions right for you?