Jobs that Don't Require High School Diploma or GED

In today’s job market, most listings require some form of qualification, whether educational or experience-based. This can be particularly challenging for people who don’t meet these criteria.

Research shows that the workforce demands educated people, meaning those with a high school diploma or college degree have a better chance of being hired compared to those without formal education. However, the cost of education can be high in some areas, and time and money may be scarce for some people.

The good news is that there are many job options available that do not require a high school diploma. Numerous jobs can be pursued without a GED or high school diploma, providing opportunities for those who have faced educational barriers. While obtaining a GED certificate is highly recommended, there are alternatives for those without a high school diploma.

You can prepare for the GED test and take it online. Our GED test prep courses are available online to help you prepare for the exam and increase your chances of success. By taking this step, you can demonstrate your commitment to education and improve your employability in the job market.

Can I Get a High-Paying Job Without a High School Diploma or GED?

Yes, it is possible to land a high-paying job without a high school diploma or GED. While many employers do require a minimum level of education, there are still numerous opportunities available for those who may have faced educational barriers.

The key is to focus on developing in-demand skills and gaining relevant experience that can make you a valuable asset to employers.

Some of the highest-paying jobs that don’t require a high school diploma include skilled trades like plumbing, electrician work, and HVAC installation and repair. These fields often provide on-the-job training and apprenticeship programs that can help you develop the necessary skills.

Additionally, jobs in the technology industry, such as web development or IT support, may not always require a formal degree, as employers are more interested in your demonstrated abilities and portfolio.

By identifying your strengths, gaining relevant certifications or training, and networking within your desired industry, you can increase your chances of securing a well-paying job without a high school diploma.

What Fields Should I Apply in?

Here are some fields to consider for high-paying jobs without a high school diploma or GED:

Skilled trades like plumbing, electrician work, and HVAC installation and repair
Technology industry jobs such as web development or IT support, which may not always require a formal degree
Nursing home jobs in dietary or housekeeping, which can lead to nurse’s aide training and eventually nursing school
Hotel housekeeper positions, which can pay $14-20/hour without a high school diploma
Postal Service jobs, which are currently in a hiring crisis and may offer higher wages and better careers soon
Truck driving, with some jobs paying up to $90,000 per year
Online entrepreneur, selling products or services through your own website or platforms like Etsy and Amazon
Tech sales, which values strong communication and problem-solving skills over formal education
Computer support specialist, which may only require relevant certifications in addition to knowledge of networking, servers, and information security
Construction worker, landscaper, and butcher jobs for those with relevant experience

The key is to focus on developing in-demand skills, gaining relevant experience, and networking within your desired industry to increase your chances of securing a well-paying job without a high school diploma or GED.

Jobs That Don’t Require a High School Diploma or GED

While it is highly recommended to obtain at least a high school diploma or GED, there are still many jobs available for those who may have faced educational barriers.

Many of these skills can be easily acquired through apprenticeships, vocational training programs, or affordable online courses. Most of these jobs involve hard labor and sometimes working in uncomfortable conditions but offer fairly decent wages.

Here is a list of jobs you can obtain without a high school diploma:

Skilled Trades

Skilled trades offer excellent career prospects for people interested in hands-on work. These jobs often involve apprenticeship programs or vocational training, allowing you to learn valuable skills while earning a living. Some of the skilled trades that don’t require a high school diploma include:

Plumber: Plumbers install and repair pipes, fixtures, and appliances that supply water and gas to, as well as carry waste from, homes and businesses. They often learn through apprenticeship programs that combine on-the-job training with technical instruction.
Electrician: Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical power, communications, lighting, and control systems. They may work in construction or maintenance, and many learn through apprenticeship programs.
HVAC Technician: HVAC technicians install, maintain, and repair heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. They often learn through vocational programs or on-the-job training.
Carpenter: Carpenters construct, erect, install, and repair structures and fixtures made of wood and other materials. They may work in construction or maintenance, and many learn through apprenticeship programs.
Welder: Welders use hand-held or remotely controlled equipment to join, cut, or repair metal components and products. They often learn through vocational programs or on-the-job training.
Mason: Masons lay brick, block, stone, and other masonry materials to construct or repair walls, partitions, arches, sewers, and other structures. They often learn through apprenticeship programs.

Construction and Maintenance

The construction and maintenance field offers a variety of jobs that don’t require a high school diploma. These positions often involve physical labor and hands-on work, but they can provide stable employment and opportunities for advancement. Some examples include:

Construction Laborer: Maintain a clean job site by picking up tools and equipment and securing the site each day to eliminate potential hazards.
Construction Crew Member: Learn, keep current with, and apply the company’s safety and construction procedures, methods, and standards.
Elevator Laborer: Assist in loading/unloading barges and trucks.
Equipment Operator: Operate equipment such as haul trucks and excavators.
Forklift Operator: Work at building, highway, and heavy construction sites.
Flooring Installation Helper: Assist with flooring installation projects as directed by the Flooring Installer.
Tile Finisher: Assist Tile Setters throughout the day, including unloading and moving boxes of tile, material, and tools.
Driller Helper: Assist in the operation and maintenance of drill rigs, associated vehicles, and equipment.
Maintenance Technician: Respond to and fulfill maintenance requests and work directly with residents and team members to diagnose, assess, and repair issues.
Utility Worker: Perform equipment cleaning associated with maintenance jobs and deliver parts, materials, and tools to and from maintenance job sites.

Service Industry

The service industry encompasses a wide range of jobs that often don’t require a high school diploma. These positions involve providing various services to customers and clients. Some examples include:

Housekeeper: Housekeepers clean and maintain hotels, motels, and other lodging establishments. They may also work in private homes.
Restaurant Staff: Restaurant staff includes positions such as servers, bartenders, and cooks. They often learn on the job and may receive some training from their employer.
Security Guard: Security guards protect property, enforce laws and regulations, and deter criminal activity. They may work in a variety of settings, such as retail stores, office buildings, or gated communities.
Janitor: Janitors and cleaners maintain the cleanliness and orderliness of buildings and grounds. They may work in schools, hospitals, office buildings, or other facilities.
Landscaper: Landscapers maintain and improve the appearance of outdoor areas, such as parks, gardens, and grounds surrounding buildings. They often learn on the job and may receive some training from their employer.
Delivery Driver: Delivery drivers transport goods and materials to businesses and consumers. They may work for companies that deliver food, packages, or other items.
Receptionist/Office Concierge: Ensures the lobby environment is impeccable and delivers friendly customer service.
Bartender: Prepares and makes outstanding products for guests, and assists servers in preparing an appropriate presentation of beverages.
Waiter or Waitress: Responsible for taking food and drink orders, and providing excellent customer service.
Animal Caretaker: Duties include monitoring the environment and animal health, walking animals on a schedule, and cleaning up after them.
Usher/Greeter/Ticket Taker: Greets guests, scans concert tickets/passes/credentials to verify authenticity, and allows guests entry into the venue.
Park Attendant: Makes minor repairs to park equipment and inspects the park for hazardous conditions, reporting them as needed.
Rental Counter/Office Clerk: Provides superior customer service, in person and over the telephone, and processes rental and purchase transactions.
Gym Manager: Accountable for managing the day-to-day operations of a health club/gym, ensuring club members have what they need to achieve their fitness goals.
Store Clerk: Conducts sales and sales delivery, and performs cashier responsibilities.
Administrative Representative: Provides a high level of customer service, meeting and greeting customers in a friendly manner.

Healthcare

The healthcare field offers several entry-level positions that don’t require a high school diploma. These jobs often involve providing basic care and support to patients and healthcare professionals. Some examples include:

Nursing Assistant: Nursing assistants provide basic care and assistance to patients in healthcare facilities. They often learn through vocational programs or on-the-job training.
Home Health Aide: Home health aides provide basic care and assistance to elderly, disabled, or ill people in their homes. They often learn through on-the-job training or short-term programs.
Medical Assistant: Medical assistants perform administrative and clinical tasks to support healthcare providers. They often learn through vocational programs or on-the-job training.
Pharmacy Technician: Pharmacy technicians assist pharmacists in preparing and dispensing medication. They often learn through vocational programs or on-the-job training.
Dental Assistant: Dental assistants perform a variety of tasks to support dentists, such as sterilizing instruments and preparing treatment rooms. They often learn through vocational programs or on-the-job training.
Phlebotomist: Phlebotomists draw blood from patients for testing, transfusion, or donation. They often learn through vocational programs or on-the-job training.
Personal Care Attendant: Provides non-medical care, companionship, and domestic services to clients in their place of residence.
Home Care Aide: Assists clients of either gender with personal care.
Medication Aide: Receives training to prepare for the role of a caregiver/medication aide.
Caretaker: Responsible for maintaining the physical appearance of a building and grounds as assigned by management.
Nutrition Services Aide: Responsible for maintaining the food production and delivery system.
Child Caretaker: Provides, maintains, and monitors a fun and safe environment for children.
Pet Caretaker: Provides daily care for pets and ensures their health and welfare.

Transportation

The transportation industry offers several jobs that don’t require a high school diploma. These positions involve moving people and goods from one place to another. Some examples include:

Truck Driver: Truck drivers transport goods and materials across the country. They must obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and may receive on-the-job training.
Taxi Driver: Taxi drivers transport passengers to their desired destinations. They must obtain a commercial driver’s license and may receive on-the-job training.
Delivery Driver: Delivery drivers transport goods and materials to businesses and consumers. They may work for companies that deliver food, packages, or other items.
Baggage Handler: Baggage handlers load and unload passengers’ luggage and cargo onto and off of airplanes. They often learn through on-the-job training.
Postal Service Worker: Postal service workers sort and deliver mail, as well as perform other tasks related to the operation of the U.S. Postal Service. They often learn through on-the-job training.
Forklift Operator: Forklift operators use forklifts to move and stack materials and goods. They often learn through on-the-job training and may be required to obtain a forklift operator’s license.

Entrepreneurship

For those with an entrepreneurial spirit, there are several opportunities to start a business without a high school diploma. These jobs often involve selling products or services online or providing freelance services. Some examples include:

Online Seller: Online sellers sell products or services through online platforms such as Amazon, eBay, or Etsy. They often learn through self-study or online resources.
Freelance Writer: Freelance writers create written content for a variety of clients, such as websites, magazines, or businesses. They often learn through self-study or online resources.
Virtual Assistant: Virtual assistants provide administrative, social media, or other support services to clients remotely. They often learn through self-study or online resources.
Graphic Designer: Graphic designers create visual concepts, using computer software or by hand, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, or captivate consumers. They may work for advertising agencies, design firms, or as freelancers.
Web Developer: Web developers design and create websites. They may work for web design firms, advertising agencies, or as freelancers.
Photographer: Photographers use their technical expertise, creativity, and equipment to capture images that tell a story, document an event, or record a moment. They may work for media organizations, advertising agencies, or as freelancers.

Entertainment and Performing Arts

Entertainment Performer: Performs for guests as a singer, actor, instrumentalist, or variety artist in a performer capacity.
Musician and/or Accompanist: Performs in chorals, music ensembles, recital seminars, and music performances.
Musician for U.S. Army: Performs in a variety of ensembles ranging from ceremonial bands to jazz bands to small ensembles, playing all styles of music.
Figure Model: Able to hold poses from 5 minutes to as long as 45 minutes.
Fit Model: Willing to model all types of apparel, including tops, bottoms, jackets, and dresses, for fittings.
Art Model: Serves in the capacity of Artists’ Figure Model, undraped (nude), for art class sessions.
Voice-over Artist: Able to record pickup lines as requested by clients.
Performing Artist: Acts as a simulation confederate, portraying specific emotional scenarios, medical behaviors, and conditions.
Scenic Artist/Stage Crew: Responsible for painting and finishing all scenic elements for assigned productions.

Tips for Finding Jobs that Don’t Require a High School Diploma

While a high school diploma or GED is often preferred, there are many jobs available that do not require this credential. Here are some tips to help you find and land these types of jobs:

Identify Your Skills and Interests: Take some time to reflect on your strengths, skills, and the types of work you enjoy. This will help you target jobs that align with your abilities and preferences, even without a high school diploma.
Explore Skilled Trades: Many skilled trade jobs, such as plumbing, electrical work, HVAC, and carpentry, can be learned through apprenticeships or on-the-job training rather than formal education. These roles often provide good pay and opportunities for career growth.
Consider Service Industry Roles: Jobs in the service industry, like housekeeping, food service, and security, frequently do not require a high school diploma. These positions can provide steady employment and the chance to develop customer service and other transferable skills.
Look into Healthcare Support Roles: Healthcare support jobs, such as nursing assistants, home health aides, and medical assistants, may not necessitate a high school diploma. These roles allow you to work in the healthcare field and potentially pursue further training or education.
Investigate Transportation and Logistics: Jobs in transportation, like truck driving, delivery, and baggage handling, often have flexible educational requirements. These positions can provide stable employment and the opportunity to gain valuable experience.
Explore Entrepreneurial Opportunities: Starting your own business, such as becoming an online seller, freelance writer, or graphic designer, can be a viable option without a high school diploma. Focus on developing in-demand skills and building a strong portfolio.
Utilize Employment Agencies: Employment agencies can help match your skills and qualifications with suitable job openings, even if you don’t have a high school diploma. They can provide guidance and connect you with employers looking to hire.

Jobs that Require GED or High School Diploma

While there are many jobs available that do not require a high school diploma or GED, obtaining one can significantly increase your earning potential and career opportunities.

There are some high-paying jobs that check for GED. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various fields and specific jobs that typically require at least a high school-level education.

Office and Administrative Roles

Administrative Assistant: Provides administrative support to executives or departments, handling tasks such as scheduling, correspondence, and data entry. Requires strong organizational and communication skills.
Customer Service Representative: Interacts with customers to handle inquiries, resolve issues, and provide information about products or services. Excellent communication and problem-solving skills are essential.
Receptionist: Greets visitors, answers phone calls, and performs various clerical duties. Requires a professional demeanor and attention to detail.
Office Manager: Oversees the day-to-day operations of an office, including managing staff, maintaining records, and ensuring efficient workflow. Strong organizational and leadership abilities are necessary.
Bookkeeper: Responsible for recording financial transactions, reconciling accounts, and preparing financial reports. Proficiency in accounting principles and software is required.
Human Resources Specialist: Handles tasks related to employee recruitment, onboarding, benefits administration, and compliance. Strong interpersonal and analytical skills are beneficial.

Retail and Sales Positions

Retail Sales Associate: Assists customers, processes transactions, and maintains store displays and inventory. Excellent customer service and product knowledge are important.
Cashier: Operates the cash register, handles money, and provides customer service. Attention to detail and basic math skills are necessary.
Sales Representative: Responsible for generating new business, maintaining client relationships, and meeting sales targets. Strong communication and negotiation skills are essential.
Store Manager: Oversees the daily operations of a retail store, including managing staff, inventory, and budgets. Leadership, problem-solving, and business acumen are required.
Pharmaceutical Sales Representative: Promotes and sells pharmaceutical products to healthcare providers. Requires a strong understanding of the industry and effective communication skills.
Real Estate Agent: Assists clients in buying, selling, or renting properties. Obtaining a real estate license typically requires a high school diploma or GED.

Related Posts: What Jobs Can I Get with a GED?

Healthcare and Social Services

Medical Receptionist: Greets patients, schedules appointments, and handles administrative tasks in a healthcare setting. Strong customer service and organizational skills are necessary.
Nursing Assistant: Provides basic care and assistance to patients in healthcare facilities. Completion of a state-approved training program is often required.
Medical Billing and Coding Specialist: Responsible for accurately coding and processing medical claims. Knowledge of medical terminology and billing procedures is essential.
Social Services Assistant: Helps social workers and case managers by conducting interviews, gathering information, and providing support to clients. Strong interpersonal skills are beneficial.
Pharmacy Technician: Assists pharmacists in preparing and dispensing medications. Completion of a training program and passing a certification exam may be required.
Home Health Aide: Provides basic care and assistance to elderly, disabled, or ill people in their homes. Training in personal care and home management is typically needed.

Skilled Trades and Technical Roles

Automotive Technician: Diagnoses, maintains, and repairs vehicles. Completion of a vocational program or on-the-job training is often required.
HVAC Technician: Installs, maintains, and repairs heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Technical training and certification may be necessary.
Electrician: Installs, maintains, and repairs electrical systems and equipment. Apprenticeship programs or vocational training are common pathways.
Plumber: Installs and repairs pipes, fixtures, and appliances that supply water and gas or carry waste. Apprenticeship or vocational training is typically needed.
Carpenter: Constructs, erects, and repairs wooden structures and fixtures. Vocational training or an apprenticeship program is often required.
Welder: Uses specialized equipment to join, cut, or repair metal components. Formal training or certification may be necessary.

Transportation and Logistics

Truck Driver: Transports goods and materials across the country. Obtaining a commercial driver’s license (CDL) is typically required.
Delivery Driver: Transports packages, food, or other goods to customers or businesses. A valid driver’s license and clean driving record are usually needed.
Warehouse Worker: Responsible for receiving, storing, and shipping inventory. Knowledge of inventory management and material handling equipment may be required.
Logistics Coordinator: Plans and coordinates the movement of goods and materials. Strong organizational and problem-solving skills are essential.
Airline Customer Service Agent: Assists passengers with check-in, flight information, and other airport-related services. Excellent customer service skills are necessary.
Shipping and Receiving Clerk: Processes incoming and outgoing shipments, maintains inventory records, and coordinates logistics. Attention to detail and basic math skills are required.

How to Get a GED

While obtaining a GED certificate may seem daunting, with the right preparation, it can be a straightforward process.

Want to start your GED preparation online, Prepsaret has you covered. Prepsaret offers a comprehensive study guide that includes a wide range of study materials and free practice test questions designed to closely mimic the actual GED exam.

Whether you prefer to study online or in-person, Prepsaret’s high-quality resources can help you feel confident in your ability to successfully pass the four GED subjects – Reasoning Through Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies – and earn your high school equivalency credential.

Alternatively, you can pay someone to take the GED test for you. You can pay for GED without taking the test. An expert GED test taker will connect to your computer and take the GED test for you.

How Can I Increase My Chances of Getting a High-Paying Job?

If you want to improve your chances of getting a high-paying job, you will need to prepare a resume, apply for the position, and complete at least one interview to receive an offer. Here are steps to increase your chances of getting hired:

Craft your Resume

Your resume should be easy to read, professional, and clean. Include only relevant information and list skills and achievements toward the top to prioritize them. Use active language, such as “achieved,” “earned,” or “accomplished.”

Proofread your resume for spelling and grammar errors, and consider having a trusted friend or family member review it as well.

Tailor your Resume for Each Job

Customize your resume for each job description by including relevant work experience, achievements, education, and skills specific to that job posting. For example, if applying for a retail position, highlight customer service experience, problem-solving abilities, and time-management skills.

Interview with Confidence

During the interview, answer questions honestly and professionally. Make eye contact and speak confidently. Discuss the value you would bring to the company and why they should hire you. Explain how you fit the company culture and how you can contribute to the team.

Find an Apprenticeship or Internship

To develop specialized skills for your desired career field, consider finding an apprenticeship or internship program. These programs help you learn from experienced professionals and expand your skill set. Working as an intern or apprentice allows you to build your resume with relevant experience.

Earn a GED Certificate

An alternative to a high school diploma, a GED certificate measures aptitude in language arts, math, social studies, and science. Review the GED requirements in your area and take the exam.

Upon passing, you earn a high school equivalency credential, similar to a high school diploma. Earning a GED certificate can provide numerous advanced educational and career opportunities.

FAQs

Can You Make It in Life Without GED?

While a GED certificate is often seen as a crucial stepping stone for those who did not complete their traditional high school education, it is not an absolute requirement for success in life. Many people have found ways to thrive and achieve their goals without a GED.

Some alternative pathways to success without a GED include vocational training, entrepreneurship, self-directed learning, and military service. However, it’s important to note that the lack of a GED may present certain challenges, such as limited job opportunities, difficulty accessing higher education, and potential perceptions of stigma.

To overcome these challenges, it’s crucial to identify your strengths, explore alternative pathways, develop a comprehensive plan, and get a GED certificate if possible. Learn how to get a GED in Texas.

Do Employers Not Like GED?

The relationship between employers and the GED credential is a complex one, with varying perspectives and considerations. While some employers may view the GED as equivalent to a traditional high school diploma, others may have a more nuanced approach.

Census Bureau statistics show that people with a traditional high school diploma generally have somewhat higher earnings compared to GED certificate holders. Additionally, a much higher percentage of high school graduates (73%) go on to pursue postsecondary education, compared to 43% of GED holders.

However, for adults over 18 who did not earn a high school diploma, a GED or other high school equivalency credential can provide a significant advantage over having no high school credential at all.

GED holders have been shown to earn $3,100 per month on average, compared to $2,400 for those with some high school credits but no diploma.

Furthermore, GED holders tend to work more hours, have lower unemployment rates, and report higher job satisfaction compared to those without a high school credential.

Is GED Harder Than a High School Diploma?

The question of whether the GED is harder than a traditional high school diploma is a complex one, with no definitive answer. It largely depends on the individual’s learning style, academic strengths, and educational goals.

According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, people with a high school diploma generally have somewhat higher earnings compared to GED certificate holders.

Additionally, a much higher percentage of high school graduates (73%) go on to pursue postsecondary education, compared to 43% of GED holders. However, for adults over 18 who did not earn a high school diploma, a GED or other high school equivalency credential can provide a significant advantage.

GED holders have been shown to earn $3,100 per month on average, compared to $2,400 for those with some high school credits but no diploma. Furthermore, GED holders tend to work more hours, have lower unemployment rates, and report higher job satisfaction compared to those without a high school credential.

While obtaining a GED certificate may seem daunting, with proper preparation, it can be a straightforward process. Prepsaret, a leading provider of GED study resources, offers a comprehensive GED study guide that includes a wide range of study materials and practice test questions designed to closely mimic the actual GED exam.

By utilizing Prepsaret’s high-quality study materials and taking advantage of their extensive practice tests, people can feel confident in their ability to successfully pass the GED and earn their high school equivalency credential.

Can You Get a Job Without a College Degree?

Yes, it is possible to get a job without a college degree. In fact, many high-paying jobs do not require a traditional four-year degree. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median income for people in 2021 was $37,522 per year.

However, there are a variety of roles that exceed this median income and do not typically require a college degree for entry-level positions.

Some of the highest-paying jobs that do not require a college degree include:

Commercial Pilot: $134,630 median annual salary
Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Manager: $105,580 median annual salary
Elevator and Escalator Installer and Repairer: $97,860 median annual salary
Detectives and Criminal Investigator: $90,370 median annual salary
Web Developer: $78,300 median annual salary

These jobs span various industries, from aviation to technology, and often require specific skills, training, or certifications rather than a traditional college degree. For example, commercial pilots need a high school diploma or equivalent and must earn their commercial pilot’s license.

Furthermore, a growing trend has seen many companies, including Google, IBM, and Apple, broaden their hiring scope to include those without college degrees for entry-level positions.

This shift highlights the increasing value placed on skills and experience over formal education in some industries. However, it’s important to note that while these jobs do not require a college degree, they may still necessitate additional training or certification to be competitive in the job market.

Jobs that Don’t Require High School Diploma or GED