Earning $30+ an hour without a college education might seem impossible.
Thanks to vocational training, apprenticeships, distance learning programs and in some cases, full-ride employer sponsorships, there are many avenues to choose from!
The key here though is to focus on high demand industries.
In this post, I’ll highlight the best industries to enter and how you can access these opportunities and thrive.
Best Jobs to Make $30/Hour Without College Education
1) Electrician
What They Do:
Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in homes, businesses, and factories.
Their work ensures that electrical systems function safely and efficiently.
Average Pay:
The average hourly wage for electricians is around $27. However, with experience and specialization, many earn $30 an hour or more.
With certifications, you can expect around the $35-$40/hour mark.
Pathway:
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
- Training: Apprenticeship programs (typically 3-4 years) provide paid on-the-job training.
- Licensing: Most states require electricians to be licensed. This is the same in the UK, Canada and Australia.
Benefits:
- Very high demand for skilled electricians.
- Opportunity for self-employment and to move to other countries on a self-sponsored self-employment pathway.
- Varied work environments.
2) Freelance Copywriter
What They Do:
Copywriters create written content for advertising, marketing, and other purposes.
Freelancers can choose their projects and set their rates.
Average Pay:
New freelance copywriters can easily earn $30 an hour.
With just a handful of projects under their belt, you can easily charge $60+ an hour (or more). That’s the beauty of being self-employed.
Pathway:
- Education: Self-taught or through writing courses and workshops.
- Portfolio: Build a strong portfolio to attract clients.
- Networking: Join freelance platforms and professional networks.
Benefits:
- High demand for skilled writers.
- Flexible work schedule.
- Ability to work from anywhere.
Related: 10 Tried and Tested Places to Find High Paying Freelance Writing Jobs
3) Personal Trainer
What They Do:
Personal trainers help clients achieve their fitness goals by designing workout plans and providing guidance on exercise and nutrition.
Average Pay:
The average hourly wage is around $25 if employed by someone else, but online trainers can earn $30 an hour or more.
Many personal trainers go on to build a 6 or even 7 figure business online.
Pathway:
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
- Certification: Certification from organizations like the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) or the American Council on Exercise (ACE) will definitely aid in employment by a company.
- Experience: Gain experience through working at gyms or as an independent trainer.
Benefits:
- High demand in the fitness industry.
- Flexible work schedule.
- Rewarding work helping others improve their health.
Related: 30+ Small Business Ideas to Become Your Own Boss (& Take Back Your Time)
4) Commercial Pilot (Airline Sponsored)
What They Do:
Commercial pilots fly passengers from airport to airport around the world, and though it’s a highly specialized job (and often very expensive to train for), there are many airlines that now fully sponsor the career transition.
They pay for all the licences needed without any prior flying experience, provided you pass the aptitude, skills and crew tests.
This is a very competitive route though, so you’ll need to be certain you want to do it.
Average Pay:
The average hourly wage is around $40, with opportunities for higher earnings depending on the job and experience.
Pathway:
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
- Training: Obtain a commercial pilot’s license from the FAA, which requires specific flight hours and passing written and practical exams.
- Experience: Accumulate flight hours and gain experience through entry-level positions.
Benefits:
- High earning potential.
- Opportunity to travel the world.
- Varied and dynamic work environments.
Related: 25 Epic Jobs That Pay You to Travel the World ($5,000+ a Month)
5) Insurance Agent
What They Do:
Insurance agents sell various types of insurance, such as life, health, and property insurance, and help clients choose policies that suit their needs.
Average Pay:
While the average hourly wage is around $27, successful agents can earn $30 an hour or more through commissions.
Pathway:
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
- Training: On-the-job training and pre-licensing courses.
- Licensing: Pass state-specific licensing exams. Licencing varies around the world, so please double check.
Benefits:
- High earning potential through commissions.
- Flexible working hours.
- Opportunities for advancement.
6) Court Reporter
What They Do:
Court reporters transcribe spoken or recorded speech into written form, often for legal proceedings.
Average Pay:
This is a slightly more specialised career. The average hourly wage is around $30, though can reach $40/hour.
Pathway:
- Education: Post-secondary certificate or associate degree in court reporting. Associate isn’t always needed if you have certification from an association.
- Certification: Certification from the National Court Reporters Association (NCRA) can enhance job prospects.
Benefits:
- High demand in legal settings.
- Opportunities for freelance work.
- Detail-oriented and specialized work.
Related: How to Become a Transcriptionist and Make $25+ Hour Online
7) Freelance Photographer
What They Do:
Freelance photographers take photos for various purposes, including events, portraits, commercial shoots, and more.
Average Pay:
Skilled photographers can earn $30 an hour or more, depending on their expertise and client base.
Pathway:
- Education: Self-taught or through photography courses and workshops.
- Portfolio: Build a strong portfolio to attract clients.
- Networking: Join professional networks and use online platforms to find clients.
Benefits:
- High demand for quality photography.
- Flexible work schedule.
- Creative and dynamic work.
Related: 15 Lucrative Photography Side Hustles To Turn Your Passion Into Profit!
8) Makeup Artist
What They Do:
Makeup artists apply makeup for various occasions, including events, weddings, film, television, and fashion shoots.
Average Pay:
Experienced makeup artists can earn $30 an hour or more. Many go on to make 6 figure salaries after 5+ years in the industry.
Pathway:
- Education: Self-taught or through makeup artistry courses and workshops.
- Portfolio: Build a strong portfolio to attract clients.
- Networking: Join professional networks and use online platforms to find clients.
Benefits:
- High demand in entertainment, wedding and fashion industries.
- Creative and dynamic work.
- Opportunities for freelance work.
9) Massage Therapist
What They Do:
Massage therapists use touch to manipulate muscles and soft tissues to relieve pain, reduce stress, and promote relaxation.
Average Pay:
The average hourly wage is around $20, but experienced therapists can earn $30 an hour or more, especially in private practice or high-demand areas.
Self employed therapists can make $35 an hour.
Pathway:
- Education: Completion of a massage therapy program.
- Licensing: Pass state-specific licensing exams.
Benefits:
- High demand in wellness and healthcare industries.
- Opportunities for self-employment.
- Rewarding work helping clients feel better.
10) Commercial Truck Driver or Package Hauler
What They Do:
Commercial truck drivers transport goods across the country. Long-haul drivers often earn higher wages due to the extended hours and travel involved.
Average Pay:
While the average hourly wage is around $22, many drivers earn $30 an hour or more, especially with experience and specialization in certain types of freight.
UPS Drivers for example are set to earn $60/hour starting in 2025 thanks to a recent policy change within the company to attract new talent.
Pathway:
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
- Training: Obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) through a truck driving school.
- Experience: Gain experience through entry-level positions.
Benefits:
- High demand for drivers.
- Potential for long-term career stability.
- Opportunities to see new places.
11) HVAC Technician
What They Do:
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) technicians install and repair heating and cooling systems.
They are essential in maintaining comfortable living and working environments.
Average Pay:
The average hourly wage is around $26, but experienced technicians with just 1-2 years under their belt can earn $30 an hour or more.
Pathway:
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
- Training: Vocational or technical school programs followed by apprenticeships.
- Certification: Certification from organizations like HVAC Excellence or North American Technician Excellence (NATE) can boost employability and wages.
Benefits:
- High demand in various climates around the world.
- Opportunities for self-employment.
- Varied and dynamic work environments.
12) Real Estate Agent
What They Do:
Real estate agents assist clients in buying, selling, and renting properties.
Successful agents often earn commissions that significantly boost their income.
Average Pay:
Income varies widely based on location and sales, but many agents earn $30 an hour or more when commissions are factored in.
Pathway:
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
- Training: Complete a pre-licensing course.
- Licensing: Pass a state licensing exam. This is the same across the UK, Canada and Australia. Check your country’s licensing regulations.
Benefits:
- High earning potential.
- Flexible working hours.
- Opportunity to build a personal brand.
13) Freelance Web Developer
What They Do:
Web developers design and create websites. Freelancers have the flexibility to choose projects and set their own rates.
Average Pay:
Experienced freelance web developers can easily earn $30 an hour or more.
In fact, this is a little on the low side. Many freelance web developers charge $80-$100/hour through package based services.
Pathway:
- Education: Self-taught or through coding bootcamps and online courses.
- Portfolio: Build a strong portfolio to attract clients.
- Networking: Join freelance platforms and professional networks.
Benefits:
- High demand for skilled developers.
- Flexible work schedule.
- Ability to work from anywhere.
14) Police Officer
What They Do:
Police officers protect and serve the community by enforcing laws, responding to emergencies, and investigating crimes.
Average Pay:
While the average hourly wage is around $28, overtime and special assignments can push earnings to $30 an hour or more.
Pathway:
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
- Training: Police academy training.
- Certification: Meet state and local certification requirements.
Benefits:
- Job stability and benefits.
- Opportunities for advancement.
- Community service aspect.
15) Plumber
What They Do:
Plumbers install and repair water, gas, and other piping systems in homes and businesses.
Average Pay:
The average hourly wage for a newly qualified plumber is around $29, but experienced plumbers can earn $30 an hour or more.
Newly self employed plumbers make around $40/hour.
Pathway:
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
- Training: Apprenticeship programs (typically 4-5 years).
- Licensing: Most states require plumbers to be licensed.
Benefits:
- High demand for plumbing services.
- Opportunity for self-employment.
- Varied and dynamic work.
16) Wind Turbine Technician
What They Do:
Wind turbine technicians install, maintain, and repair wind turbines, which are crucial for renewable energy production.
Average Pay:
The average hourly wage is around $31/hour across the US, Canada and the UK.
Specialists can easily make $45/hour. Even more if working off-shore ($55/hour).
Pathway:
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
- Training: Technical school programs specific to wind energy.
- Certification: Certification from organizations like the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) can be beneficial.
Benefits:
- Growing field with high demand.
- Contribution to renewable energy efforts.
- Opportunities to travel.
17) Freelance Graphic Designer
What They Do:
Graphic designers create visual content for websites, advertisements, and other media. Freelancers have the freedom to choose projects and set their rates.
Average Pay:
New freelance graphic designers can earn $30 an hour or more.
Pathway:
- Education: Self-taught or through online courses and certifications.
- Portfolio: Build a strong portfolio to attract clients.
- Networking: Join freelance platforms and professional networks.
Benefits:
- High demand for skilled designers.
- Flexible work schedule.
- Ability to work from anywhere.
Related: Top 10 Free Courses to Help You Make More Money Online & in Your Career
18) Medical Transcriptionist
What They Do:
Medical transcriptionists listen to voice recordings made by healthcare professionals and convert them into written reports.
Average Pay:
The average hourly wage is around $16, but experienced transcriptionists with specialized skills can earn $30 an hour or more.
Pathway:
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
- Training: Complete a medical transcription program (typically less than a year).
- Certification: Certification from the Association for Healthcare Documentation Integrity (AHDI) can enhance job Benefitspects.
Benefits:
- Can work remotely.
- Flexible hours.
- Steady demand in the healthcare industry.
19) Elevator Installer and Repairer
What They Do:
Elevator installers and repairers assemble, install, and maintain elevators, escalators, and moving walkways.
Average Pay:
The average hourly wage is around $45, with experienced workers earning even more.
Pathway:
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
- Training: Apprenticeship programs (typically 4-5 years) provide paid on-the-job training.
- Licensing: Some countries require licensing.
Benefits:
- High earning potential.
- Strong demand in urban areas.
- Opportunity for specialization.
20) Aircraft Mechanic
What They Do:
Aircraft mechanics and service technicians maintain and repair aircraft, ensuring they meet safety standards.
Average Pay:
The average hourly wage is around $35, with opportunities for overtime and higher pay with specialization.
Working hours tend to be lower than someone working in office based roles.
Pathway:
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
- Training: FAA-approved aviation maintenance technician schools or military training.
- Certification: FAA certification required.
Benefits:
- High demand for skilled mechanics.
- Opportunities to work for major airlines.
- Potential for advancement and specialization.
21) Heavy Equipment Operator
What They Do:
Heavy equipment operators control machinery used in construction, such as bulldozers, cranes, and excavators.
Average Pay:
The average hourly wage is around $25, but experienced operators can earn $30 an hour or more.
Pathway:
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
- Training: On-the-job training or apprenticeships.
- Certification: Some positions require certification from the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO).
Benefits:
- High demand in construction and mining industries.
- Opportunities for advancement.
- Varied and dynamic work environments.
22) Boilermaker
What They Do:
Boilermakers assemble, install, and repair boilers, tanks, and closed vats.
Average Pay:
The average hourly wage is around $30, with potential for higher earnings with experience and overtime.
Pathway:
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
- Training: Apprenticeship programs (typically 4 years).
- Certification: Some positions may require certification.
Benefits:
- High earning potential.
- Strong demand in industrial sectors.
- Opportunities for travel.
23) Home Inspector
What They Do:
Home inspectors assess the condition of homes, usually during the buying or selling process, to ensure they meet building codes and standards.
Average Pay:
The average hourly wage is around $30.
Pathway:
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
- Training: On-the-job training or local courses in home inspection.
- Licensing: Licensing requirements vary by country.
Benefits:
- High demand in real estate markets.
- Opportunities for self-employment.
- Varied and dynamic work environments.