Are you interested in a well-paying job without investing the time and money to go through a four-year degree program? Then you might be interested in a “new-collar” job with employers that emphasize proven technical and soft skills over extensive work experience and education.
When considering different career options, many think of blue-collar or white-collar jobs. However, as the job market and the way we do business has evolved, a third type of professional, referred to as the “new-collar” worker, has entered the job market, resulting in high-paying jobs without a degree being strictly necessary.
New-collar employees might receive training and education through technical schools, certification programs, vocational training, IT and software boot camps, high school programs, internships, apprenticeships, and community colleges. These types of roles are commonly found in the manufacturing, technology, and healthcare sectors.

High-paying jobs that don’t require a college degree
Organizations that hire new-collar workers focus on identifying candidates with the right skill set over candidates with the best college degree or work experience. You can find these types of jobs in a myriad of businesses, from healthcare facilities, governments, and IT organizations to schools, financial institutions, and engineering firms. Below are examples of 10 high-paying jobs that don’t necessarily require a college degree.
Information Security Analyst
An information security analyst helps protect a business’s computer systems and networks. Also referred to as a computer security analyst, an information security analyst is sometimes required to have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science, information systems, or a related field. However, many organizations require proven skills in IT security, computer science, and computer programming over a college degree.
The 2020 median pay for information security analysts was $103,590, with a projected growth of 33% between 2020 and 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Database Administrator
A database administrator organizes and stores data for organizations. Also referred to as a database manager, a database administrator uses specialized software to ensure data is secure and made available to the individuals that need to access and use it.
It is common to find these types of jobs in computer systems support and design companies, though they are available in virtually any business sector. Some companies require database administrators to have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in information systems or a related field.
However, many organizations seek candidates with a strong skill set in database languages, such as Structured Query Language (SQL).
The 2020 median pay for database administrators was $98,860, with a projected growth of 8% between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Computer Programmer
Computer programmers write, develop, and test computer code that supports computer programs, software, and applications in functioning. They need to know computer languages like C++, Java, Python, C#, and JavaScript. Computer programmers can work for any type of company, though they will often work for computer systems design companies and software publishers.
Employers often require computer programmers to have a bachelor’s degree, but in many cases, they only need an associate degree or proven experience in computer coding. It is common for computer programmers to attend a programming boot camp or become certified in certain computer languages, which can improve their chances of landing a job.
The 2020 median pay for computer programmers was $89,190, with a projected decline of -10% between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Network and Computer Systems Administrator
Network and computer systems administrators install, update, and operate computer networks and systems for companies. All industries require some sort of computer system and network these days, which makes these jobs in demand for numerous business types.
Many administrator positions require a bachelor’s degree in an IT-related field. However, it’s becoming more common for employers to only require solid computer skills with some type of postsecondary certificate or vocational training.
The 2020 median pay for network and computer systems administrators was $84,810, with a projected growth of 5% between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Dental Hygienist
Dental hygienists work in dentist offices and examine patients for signs of oral disease, like gingivitis. They also provide preventative care services, such as oral hygiene and teeth cleanings. Many dental hygienist positions require an associate degree or an accredited program, and are required to be licensed by the state in which they work.
The 2020 median pay for dental hygienists was $77,090, with a projected growth of 11% between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Ultrasound Technician
An ultrasound technician helps doctors and physician assistants identify patients’ health conditions and medical concerns. Also referred to as medical sonographers, an ultrasound technician uses devices that produce high-frequency sound waves to record images of parts of the body.
Many organizations require some formal education for a job as an ultrasound technician. The typical education is a postsecondary certificate or two-year associate degree, and some employers also require professional certification.
The 2020 median annual salary for an ultrasound technician was $70,380, with a projected growth of 14% between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Radiographer
Also referred to as radiologic technicians, radiographers work for physicians and perform diagnostic imaging on patients. They take images ordered by doctors and help the doctor evaluate the findings. Radiographers can work in laboratories, private practices, hospitals, emergency care centers, and outpatient centers.
Many employers require a certification or associate degree in radiologic technology or a related field, which can take one to two years to complete.
The 2020 median pay for radiographers was $63,710, with a projected growth of 9% between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Computer Support Specialist
Computer support specialists help consumers and employees of organizations with their computer software and equipment questions and issues. They typically do not need a college degree. However, they do need computer knowledge and experience working with computers, along with stellar communication and interpersonal skills. Many employers will require an associate degree or certification.
The 2020 median pay for computer support specialists was $55,510, with a projected growth of 9% between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Machinist
Machinists set up and operate equipment to produce instruments, tools, and metal parts for manufacturers. They work in factories and machine shops. Machinists typically need a high school diploma to secure a job and are trained on the job. Some employers might prefer some work experience, vocational training, or technical certification.
The 2020 median pay for machinists was $47,040, with a projected growth of 7% between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Pharmacy Technician
Most pharmacy technicians work in pharmacies and drug stores to assist pharmacists in dispensing customer medications. Many pharmacy technician jobs require on-the-job training, so a four-year college degree is not necessary. Some employers might require some vocational school training or certification in pharmacy technology or similar.
The 2020 median pay for a pharmacy technician was $35,100, with a projected growth of 4% between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.

Additional New-Collar Jobs
In addition to the above new-collar jobs, below are a few more for consideration, broken out by industry.
Healthcare Industry
- Cardiovascular Technologist
- Medical Records and Health Information Technician
- Occupational Therapy Aide
- Physical Therapy Assistant
- Surgical Technologist
Internet Technology Industry
- Business Intelligence Analyst
- Cloud Administrator
- Cybersecurity Architect
- Network Support Specialist
- Technical Sales Assistant
Manufacturing Industry
- Drafter
- CNC Operator
- Industrial Engineering Technician
- Manufacturing Machine Operator
- Tool and Die Maker
Various Industries
- Project Manager
- Mortgage Loan Originator
- Service Delivery Analyst
You don’t need a four-year degree to land a job and build a long-term, financially beneficial career. You simply need an interest in any of the many new-collar positions available and then go from there to acquire the necessary certifications, vocational training, or on-the-job training to add to your resume and, from there, get the interview and land the job.