Landing a job paying over $75,000 a year doesn’t require a graduate degree or MBA. Forget studying four years of college and thousands in student loans, as many occupations reward workers for on-the-job skills. The key is finding such jobs and prepare for them. Do not stop learning after high school as these roles demand continuous training, updated licenses and certifications.
Media and Communication Equipment Workers
In the movie and film industry, these technicians install, maintain and repair audio-visual systems in businesses and homes besides training customers in using equipment. Requires only a high school diploma, with experience in electrical installation/repair but those with certification get hired easily but need short-term on-the-job training. Average annual wage: $79,580 and projected job growth is 8%.
Power plant operators
Power plant operators maintain machinery used to generate electricity and also distribute power among generators, correct voltage and flows as per consumer demand. Requires a high school diploma with years of on-site training and experience besides a System Operator Certification Program certificate from North American Electric Reliability Corporation, as your work could impact the power grid. Average annual wage: $79,610 with projected job growth is 1%.
Elevator installers and repairman
They install and maintain elevators, escalators, chairlifts moving walkways, and other kinds of lifts. Elevator repairers earn more as electronics, electric and hydraulics and knowledge is required in trouble-shooting repair works. An elevator installer or repairer starts with a sponsored 4-year apprenticeship program after a high school diploma. On-going training is required and most states require a license. Very high growth rates with average annual income: $79,780.
Service Delivery Analyst
They ensure that clients receive high-quality service, analysing how services are being delivered, and scope for improvement, using software to track quality and efficiency of the user’s experience. While service delivery requirements of analyst jobs vary by industry, analysts need strong computer skills with three years industry experience, knowledge of service delivery software used. The average annual salary for a Service Delivery Analyst is $56,434.
Detectives and criminal investigators
These law enforcement officers collect evidence and gather facts for criminal cases by conducting interviews, examining records, observing suspects and participate in raids and arrests, specialising in homicide or fraud and work till arrest and trial is completed or case is dropped. A detective needs at least a high school diploma, but most federal agencies/police departments require college degrees. The average annual wage is $81,920 and projected job growth is 5 %.
Pharmacy Technician
Pharmacy technicians assist pharmacists to dispense medicines to customers and health professionals and work in pharmacies, drug stores, hospitals or in private practices. Pharmacy technicians het their training while being on the job, and a four-year degree is not required. Technical or vocational schools offer programs in pharma technology give students a certificate after 12 months or less. Jobs have faster than average growth rates, and average annual salary of $33,950.
Radiology Technician
Radiographers or radiologic technicians take X-rays and other similar diagnostic imaging of patients. Working under physicians, they take images and help them evaluate images in physicians’ offices, laboratories hospitals, and outpatient care centers. An associate degree for MRI or radiologic technology (18 to 24 months), is required with certificate programs ranging from one to two years. Faster than average job growth, radiologic technicians can earn an average annual $62,280.