If you think a college degree is the only way to earn a good salary in the U.S., think again. In today’s job market, many U.S. employers are hiring skilled workers without degrees—some offering starting salaries of $55,000 or more. Whether you’re looking to move to the U.S. or already live there, there are countless opportunities available if you have the right skills, mindset, and strategy.
In this post, we’ll walk you through the top-paying no-degree jobs, industries hiring, companies open to international workers, and how to position yourself for success.
U.S. companies are starting to prioritize skills, certifications, and work experience over formal education. With evolving technology, practical knowledge and soft skills—like problem-solving, adaptability, and communication—are becoming more valuable than ever.
Industries Hiring Without a College Degree
These industries are leading the charge in offering high salaries to non-degree holders:
Technology Roles: Web Developers, IT Support Specialists, Cybersecurity Analysts Average Salary: $55,000–$90,000 (You can get in with certifications like CompTIA, Google IT Support, or a coding bootcamp)
Sales & Customer Support Roles: Sales Representatives, Call Center Supervisors, Account Managers Average Salary: $50,000–$70,000 (often higher with commissions)
Healthcare (Support Roles) Roles: Medical Coders, Radiology Techs, Lab Technicians Average Salary: $55,000–$75,000 (Requires certifications or associate training, not a full degree)
UnitedHealth Group – careers.unitedhealthgroup.com (healthcare and customer support roles)
Home Depot – careers.homedepot.com
FedEx – careers.fedex.com (logistics, driving, and warehouse roles)
Can You Get These Jobs with a Visa?
Yes, some of these roles are eligible for work visas—especially if you bring experience or certifications. Focus on companies that are known to sponsor H-2B, H-1B, or EB-3 visas, particularly in sectors like logistics, construction, tech, and healthcare support.
A cropped photo of young man working on his laptop.
Tips to Land a $55,000 Job Without a Degree
Get Certified Short online courses can boost your profile. Look into certifications from Google, Microsoft, Coursera, CompTIA, or trade schools.
Learn Practical Skills Focus on skills you can demonstrate—whether through freelance work, a portfolio, or internships.
Build a U.S.-style Resume Keep it one page, list measurable achievements, and use action verbs like “led,” “managed,” or “solved.”
Use the Right Job Boards
Indeed.com
Glassdoor.com
MyVisaJobs.com (for sponsored roles)
USponsorme.com
Company career pages
Apply Strategically Don’t just apply randomly. Focus on companies open to non-degree candidates and tailor each application to the job.
Prepare for Interviews Practice behavioral and technical questions. Show confidence and emphasize your ability to learn and adapt.
A young woman working on her laptop.
Mistakes to Avoid
Applying to jobs that clearly require advanced degrees.
Not researching visa eligibility (if applying from outside the U.S.).
Ignoring certifications or refusing to upgrade your skills.
Using outdated or poorly written resumes.
Falling for scams promising “guaranteed U.S. jobs” for a fee.
A high-paying job in the U.S. without a degree is not just possible—it’s happening every day. With the right training, certifications, and approach, you can land a $55,000+ role in industries that value what you can do, not just what’s on your diploma.
If you’re serious about this path, start today. Invest in one skill, update your resume, and apply to roles where your potential will shine—degree or no degree.
