5 Jobs Paying $80K+ Without a College Degree, According to Anthony O'Neal
College education can be a valuable investment that opens doors to many career opportunities. However, it isn’t always the only route to a high-paying job.
In a recent YouTube video, finance expert Anthony O’Neal shared five careers that can pay around $80,000 or more without needing a bachelor’s degree. To enter these roles, you typically just need on-the-job training, certification or a high school diploma. Here are the five fields he recommends researching.
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1. Elevator and Escalator Installer or Repairer
As the name suggests, these professionals install, maintain and repair elevators, escalators and similar equipment. O’Neal cites a median salary of $106,580, but according the newest Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data, the median salary for this career path has actually gone up to $109,910. To enter this career field, you’ll typically have to learn through an apprenticeship, and most states require licensing.
2. Power Plant Operator, Distributor or Dispatcher
These workers control and monitor systems that generate and distribute electricity. Though this job pays really well, it’s also high-stakes.
“One mistake here isn’t a writeup, it’s a blackout,” O’Neal warned. “One mistake here could be someone's cancer machine or someone's breathing machine turning off. Some jobs pay you for your hands. This particular job pays you for your nerves.”
According to BLS data, this career path has a median annual pay of $105,080, with the bottom 10% below $64,160 and the top 10% above $136,550. A high school diploma is typically enough to enter this field, but you’ll also need extensive on-the-job training.
3. Electrical Power-Line Installer and Repairer
Line installers build and repair electrical power systems, but they have to work at significant heights and around high-voltage electricity. So if you’re not comfortable with risky work environments, this may not be the job for you.
Line installers make a median salary of $95,320, per the BLS, and the job is also projected to grow 10% from 2025 to 2035, which is much faster than average.
4. Transportation Inspector
Transportation inspectors examine equipment or goods to ensure they follow safety laws and company standards. Though you may not need a four-year degree to become a transportation inspector, you’ll need relevant experience or government qualifications. BLS currently reports a $87,290 median salary for this field.
5. Police or Sheriff’s Patrol Officer
Police and sheriff’s officers enforce laws, respond to emergencies and protect communities. According to BLS numbers, the 2025 national median for police and sheriff’s patrol officers was $77,310, which is slightly below $80,000. That said, depending on your location and experience, you may be able to earn much more than that.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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