City Town Info

Updated with the Newest Data! (Our previous version of this report can be found here.)

The Best Career Opportunities, "College Degree Not Required"
(high-paying jobs, with job growth, not necessarily requiring a degree)

This is our second annual study identifying the highest paying jobs which do not generally require a college degree. Sure, people with degrees may have a better chance of finding a college degree, but the rest of us deserve a chance as well. Our annual study takes a look at hundreds of career areas to see how well they pay, how fast they are growing, and the percentage of people in those jobs who have no degree.

air traffic controller

The table below contains data on hundreds of careers. Jobs at the top of the list are good bets for people with no degree. Jobs at the bottom of the list are bad bets (for example, lawyers are listed near the bottom since they all pretty much have multiple degrees).

The 6th column ("Pct with College Degree") shows the percentage of people in a given occupation with degrees. Looking at the top career, air traffic controller, you will see that 32% of the people in the job have a college degree (and therefore 68% don't). All of this is weighted into our algorithm.

You can also see in the second column ("Previous Rank") how the career ranked in last year's report, to see whether it made a positive move, a negative move, or stayed the same. Radiation Therapists, for example, moved from the 66th position to the 27th. Aircraft assemblers moved from the 74th position to 13th.

Note: Clicking on any of the hyperlinked career names will bring you to a detailed profile page for the career, including a map showing where those jobs are relatively most common, a list of salaries by metro area, a list of industries which employ the most people in the job, and in most cases a video describing the occupation.

Current RankPrevious RankCareerIndexMedian Salary 2007Pct with College Degree (2007)Pct Job Growth 2006-2016Num Jobs 2006 (thousands)Num Jobs 2016 (thousands)Pct Self- Employed 2007
1 1Air Traffic Controller1117,240321225280
2 2Elevator Install0.7163,62010922240
3 7Construction Mgr0.6873,700291648756456
4 3Gaming Mgr0.6762,82024254516
5 5Transp Mgr0.6773,080259941023
6 10Mgr Of Fire Fighting0.6562,900171252580
7 15Elec Power Equip Install0.6257,4000-422210
8 19Railroad Conductors0.6255,530111040440
9 4Dental Hygienist0.6162,80033301672170
10 11Nuclear Med Tech0.6162,300251520231
11 17Construction Supervisors0.5953,85010977284224
12 24Boilermaker0.5946,96001118200
13 74Aircraft Assemb0.5845,41001428320
14 14Ship Engineer0.5854,820171315170
15 28Transp Inspector0.5850,390151926316
16 20Elec Power-Line Install0.5850,780671121201
17 12Mgr Of Police Detective0.5769,3103310931020
18 6Sonographer0.5757,160251746541
19 18Mgr Of Mechanic0.5753,8901374654992
20 45Avionic Tech0.5646,9500616170
21 36Captains0.5653,430211834407
22 33Elec Indust Equip Install0.5545,1800880860
23 178Commercial Diver0.5439,5909333413
24 32Millwright0.5445,6300555583
25 26Aircraft Tech0.5347,74011111221350
26 50Telecomm Equip Install0.5352,4301331982034
27 66Radiation Therapist0.5266,170422015180
28 13Gas Plant Oper0.5253,6707-712110
29 30Brickmason0.5242,98031015817425
30 53Signal Switch Repair0.5250,150907711
31 41Admin Svcs Mgr0.5167,69040122472761
32 29Plumber0.5142,77041150255512
33 OT Asst0.5142,060132425314
34 76Elec Transp Equip Install0.5143,1100521220
35 25Power Plant Oper0.5155,00020335360
36 21Gen'l Management0.5185,2304821,7201,7461
37 8Pile-Driver Oper0.5146,18030665
38 27Engineering Tech0.554,25018182831
39 47Telecomm Line Install0.546,280851621703
40 201Continuous Mining Mach0.540,43001010112
41 114Mgr Correctional Officers0.552,580251340450
42 16Power Distributor0.562,59020-10980
43 34Mgr Moving Mach Oper0.548,33017102262492
44 72Heavy Equipment Mech0.4940,4403121311475
45 172Farm Prod Purchasing0.4946,7700-516155
46 31Electrician0.4943,6107770575711
47 35Aerospace Tech0.4953,300180991
48 83Rail Car Repair0.4943,3203427284
49 52Taper0.4941,28027545825
50 89Iron And Rebar Worker0.4938,22001330340
51 75Stationary Engineer0.4946,04010445470
52 49Plant And System Oper0.4946,2707014140
53 40Orthotist0.4958,980270667
54 EE Tech0.4850,6601841701771
55 432Makeup Artist0.4831,82010502340
56 329Railroad Brake Switch Oper0.4848,8600-1125220
57 204Logistician0.4863,430431883982
58 86Network System Analyst0.4864,600575326240218
59 84Physical Therapy Asst0.4841,360233360800
60 63Cost Estimator0.4852,94032192212621
61 151Airline Pilots0.48141,090741479903
62 101Building Inspector0.4846,57023181101309
63 64Respiratory Therapist0.4847,42028241021261
64 58Control And Valve Install0.4845,4407043430
65 99Industrial Machine Mech0.4841,050592612843
66 HR Mgr0.4788,510581258651
67 77Precision Instrum Repair0.4746,250156161719
68 109Med Equipment Repair0.4740,5801521384614
69 39Petroleum Pump Oper0.4752,3807-1342360
70 98Mgr Of Non-Retail Sales0.4765,51038453054945
71 68Industrial Eng Tech0.4746,81018975821
72 51Industrial Prod Mgr0.4777,67043-51571482
73 46Radiologic Tech0.4748,17025151962261
74 251Roof Bolter0.4641,25000440
75 23Structural Metal Worker0.4640,4804672765
76 80Financial Mgr0.4690,97060135065705
77 141Flight Attendant0.4653,7803110971070
78 65Environmental Eng Tech0.4640,560182421261
79 175Mech Insulation0.4636,90001128311
80 37Tile Setter0.4636,590315799134
81 54Crane Oper0.4639,0400446480
82 67Bus And Truck Mech0.4637,6603112753066
83 59Cardiovascular Tech0.4542,300252745571
84 60Mail Carrier0.4544,3501113383410
85 159Rail-Track Equip Oper0.4540,0000015150
86 118Channeling Machine Oper0.4539,99000881
87 57Explosive Worker0.4539,89000550
88 56Mech Eng Tech0.4545,85018648511
89 116Postal Svc Clerk0.4544,80011080800
90 HVAC Tech0.4437,6603929231713
91 136Locksmith0.4432,020023263228
92 71Network System Admin0.4462,13050273093930
93 48Manager0.4482,49055787093060
94 91Traffic Tech0.4437,140714782
95 85Rigger0.4439,2200012120
96 111Glazier0.4434,61001355625
97 79Operating Engineer0.4436,890384244606
98 38Farm And Ranch Mgr0.4452,0702612582610
99 150Chemical Plant Oper0.4449,0807-1453450
100 153Training Mgr0.4480,250581429332
101 LPN And LVN0.4436,5507147498542
102 170Aircraft Cargo Supervisor0.4439,8401717672
103 298Refractory Material Repairs0.4440,78050333
104 90Alarm System Install0.4334,81081957687
105 177Boat Mech0.4333,210521242923
106 62Mgr Of Production0.4347,30015-46996652
107 93Carpenter0.4336,5506101,4621,61232
108 78Tool And Die Maker0.4344,2905-9101914
109 73Sheet Metal Worker0.4337,360461892015
110 102Auto Body Repair0.4335,18031118320414
111 107Drywall Install0.4336,1402718619923
112 95Waste Treatment Oper0.4336,0708141111261
113 87Surgical Tech0.4236,0801624861070
114 82Fire Fighter0.4241,19018122933280
115 81Stonemason0.4235,96038242623
116 128Plasterer0.4234,70008616616
117 69Transp Equip Painter0.4235,6804954594
118 110Real Estate Broker0.4260,790451113114664
119 288Media Equipment Tech0.4252,070351119210
120 61Model Makers0.4242,0500-10985
121 92Fire Inspector0.4248,05027714150
122 166Mining Machine Oper0.4237,37000332
123 196Correctional Officer0.4235,76011174425160
124 152Mgr Of Groundskeeper0.4237,300151720223744
125 113Heavy Truck Driver0.4235,0404101,8602,0539
126 108Auto Mech0.4233,78041477388317
127 158Health Svc Mgr0.4273,34057162623058
128 129Mgr Of Laborers0.4239,57017131822051
129 369Shuttle Car Oper0.4239,06060330
130 CIS Research0.4193,950682425315
131 122Rotary Drill Oper0.4138,4600-420193
132 88Electro-Mechanical Tech0.4144,72018016161
133 260Cargo Agent0.4137,1101616861001
134 112Civil Eng Tech0.4140,5601810911001
135 145Elec/Electronic Drafter0.4146,83025335366
136 44Hazmat Removal0.4135,45091339442
137 146Bridge Tender0.4139,01070440
138 169Purchasing Mgr0.4181,57057370723
139 147Earth Driller0.4134,50005222310
140 193Recreational Vehicle Svc Tech0.4131,51062114174
141 126Roofer0.4132,26031515617920
142 183Loading Machine Oper0.437,250403319
143 188Auto Glass Install0.430,720017242821
144 221Surveying Tech0.432,34071876904
145 190Court Reporter0.445,610382619248
146 181Compensation Mgr0.474,750581249551
147 124Cement Mason0.432,6502112222472
148 105Dental Asst0.430,2209292803620
149 55Nuclear Tech0.465,500460770
150 120Process Control Programmer0.442,4806-1018160
151 103Mktg Mgr0.498,72069151671922
152 220Gaming Supervisor0.441,1603024344229
153 174Extraction Worker0.435,4500010105
154 200Terrazzo Worker0.431,630214782
155 104Police Patrol Officer0.447,46033116487190
156 157Patternmaker0.435,38000774
157 211Mechanical Door Repair0.431,61072015180
158 143Mail Sorter0.443,90012-81981810
159 149Tech Products Sales0.464,44051124114624
160 100Drafter0.443,06025825275
161 Legal Secretarie0.3938,19018122753081
162 171Exec Secretary0.3937,24018151,6181,8571
163 117Mechanical Drafter0.3943,70025578826
164 142Bus Drivers0.3932,0904131982231
165 161Excavating Machine Oper0.3932,93049808715
166 195Mgr Protective Svcs0.3941,570281548553
167 70Biz Operations0.3955,65049211,0431,2610
168 155Derrick Operator0.3936,2400-419183
169 168Food Svc Mgr0.3943,02024535036845
170 131Paving Equip Oper0.3931,3000964702
171 309Geological Tech0.3846,16032812130
172 199Machine Maint0.3834,5500084830
173 154Gas Compressor0.3845,4000-24434
174 280Loader0.3831,97061316180
175 134Rock Splitter0.3827,130025453
176 1630.3834,210111119210
177 165Hoist Oper0.3833,62000330
178 380Wellhead Pumper0.3836,1500-614132
179 250Rail Transp Worker0.3839,1500-13760
180 179Architectural And Drafter0.3841,9602561161235
181 205nsulation Worker0.3830,5100932351
182 198Chemical Equip Oper0.3840,29014-353511
183 331Tire Builder0.3738,1200-1223200
184 173Maint And Repair0.3731,9106101,3911,5312
185 115Carpet Install0.3734,56030737249
186 167Respiratory Therapy Tech0.3739,12016019190
187 206Motorcycle Mech0.3730,050514212422
188 162Septic Tank Svcr0.3731,4304824266
189 192Mgr Of Office Support0.3743,5102961,4181,5002
190 106Highway Maintenance0.3731,540591451581
191 291Dredge Oper0.3733,820402216
192 379Painter0.3731,19061246351742
193 350Pump Oper0.3739,8000-171193
194 140Machinist0.3734,7703-23973842
195 180Funeral Director0.3749,6204110293220
196 CIS Mgr0.37101,58073162643071
197 191Welders0.3631,400254094306
198 148Installation Worker0.3632,9409816818122
199 210Forensic Science Tech0.3645,330463113171
200 240Construction0.3630,47041062689
201 209Chef0.3634,3701481151247
202 212Emergency Dispatcher0.3631,4701114991131
203 197Home Appliance Repair0.3633,86072575827
204 160Med Asst0.3626,29010354175650
205 234Sales/Services0.3648,10048285406906
206 241Veterinary Tech0.3626,7801641711000
207 225Property Association Mgr0.3643,070361532937951
208 274Gaming Officer0.3627,13013339121
209 302Skin Care Specialist0.3626,1701034385139
210 189Transit Police0.3647,080330660
211 133Sales Mgr0.3691,56069103183512
212 176Mgr Housekeeping0.3631,290111328231831
213 194Elec Motor Repair0.3632,8600-3252413
214 237Sound Eng Tech0.3543,0103513161811
215 219Detective0.3558,26054181061250
216 215Pipelayer0.3530,33047677212
217 164Physician Asst0.3574,980672666832
218 186Art Director0.3568,100589788559
219 125Transp Worker0.3530,18071144492
220 248Bill Collector0.3529,05013234345341
221 RN0.3557,28056232,5053,0921
222 228Welding Machine Oper0.3530,9802253547
223 203Med Transcriptionist0.3529,95010149811210
224 Svc Unit Operator0.3432,9100-628262
225 137Paperhanger0.3433,7100-910938
226 135Engine Assembler0.3433,2500-845410
227 208Structural Metal Fab0.3430,290001031032
228 268Brokerage Clerk0.3436,390312173880
229 213Financial Specialist0.3453,68050121291443
230 256Auto Insurance Appraiser0.3449,180471513154
231 0.3428,970371361466
232 244Dental Lab Tech0.3432,580124535513
233 261Med Appliance Tech0.3431,180128121313
234 286Fashion Designer0.3462,610555202124
235 294Camera Equip Repair0.3334,8501504421
236 185Embalmer0.3337,84029119101
237 217Health Tech0.3335,140271579917
238 269Multiple Mach Tool Oper0.3330,5303097970
239 310Loan Officer0.3351,76049113734153
240 275Claim Adjuster0.3350,6604793053324
241 266Separating Machine Oper0.3334,97014-144431
242 Other Purchasing0.3350,7304202872882
243 246Tree Pruner0.3328,250610414529
244 258Sailors0.3330,630171533380
245 216Real Estate Appraiser0.3344,460441710111833
246 303Kindergarten Teacher0.3343,58043161701981
247 222Paralegal0.3343,04045222382912
248 Other Dispatcher0.3332,1901121901931
249 247Legal Support0.3345,140384485014
250 235Med Record Tech0.3328,03012181702000
251 259Logging Equip Oper0.3329,70020404028
252 281Pest Control0.3327,88091470809
253 343Accountant0.3330,56016122,1142,3777
254 253Machine Tool Opers0.3231,6706-31411360
255 318Fence Erector0.3226,400313323623
256 327Extraction Worker Helper0.3228,6800025250
257 305Material Moving0.3230,2706054541
258 341Log Grader0.3229,240207732
259 312Financial Svc Sales Agent0.3268,500672532039918
260 284Farm Equip Mech0.3229,4603031316
261 132Floor Layer0.3234,1903-13292548
262 218Comp Systems Analyst0.3269,76068295046506
263 313Pharmacy Tech0.3225,63016322853760
264 282Pesticide Handler0.3226,700613313521
265 265Wholesale Purchasing0.3244,64036015715612
266 387Agent0.3264,500598252756
267 278Computer Repair0.3236,48025317518020
268 144Choreographer0.3234,660225202117
269 466Agricultural Inspector0.3238,10026016160
270 507Correspondence Clerk0.3228,700161817200
271 334Comm Equip Oper0.3231,6802925450
272 184Radio Mechanic0.3237,69013-13764
273 AV Equip Tech0.3234,8403524506213
274 315Optician0.3230,30015966722
275 262Production Clerk0.3238,6203042933051
276 295Healthcare Support0.3226,99010162042367
277 273Floor Sander0.3128,89030141447
278 202Mgr Of Personal Svcs0.3132,800261521524839
279 EMT And Paramedic0.3127,07014192012400
280 340Construction Laborer0.3126,3205111,2321,36616
281 321Animal Control0.3127,910121315170
282 231Job Printer0.3132,4107-748443
283 480Med Lab Tech0.3149,70051131671881
284 236Rolling Mach Oper0.3131,0500-1036323
285 263Brickmason Helper0.3125,35031265733
286 320Cust Service Rep0.3128,33022252,2022,7470
287 346Semiconductor Processor0.3132,8605-1142370
288 276Hardware Engineer0.3188,47070479824
289 257Elec Auto Equip Install0.3128,2207520215
290 238Printing Machine Operator0.3130,9906-51981862
291 227Payroll Clerk0.3132,4001832142201
292 324Furnace Oper0.3130,3200-8322915
293 308Home Ent Equip Install0.3129,980113404112
294 229Loggers0.3131,8702-128724
295 326Multimedia Artist And Animator0.3151,35058268711070
296 290Small Engine Mech0.3126,91056333523
297 301Massage Therapist0.3133,400322011814264
298 292Metal-Refining Furnace0.3132,6400-1618150
299 342Human Resource0.3152,27056172142502
300 371Insurance Sales0.3143,870451343649226
301 OT Aide0.3125,02013258103
302 283Butcher0.326,930221311341
303 356Building Cleaning0.325,09041316185
304 429Enviro Science Tech0.338,090463136472
305 226Computer Support0.341,47043135526241
306 323Med Equip Preparer0.325,950101645523
307 328Med Secretary0.328,09018174084771
308 297Home Health Aide0.319,4207497871,1712
309 332Mgr Of Retail Sales0.333,9602541,6761,74734
310 HR Asst0.333,75029111681870
311 279Mixing Machine Oper0.329,3304-41431361
312 339Cabinetmaker0.327,0104314915314
313 393Tax Examiner0.345,62043181820
314 365Lodging Mgr0.342,3204513718053
315 359Compensation Specialist0.350,23056181101302
316 470Insurance Underwriter0.352,3505371041110
317 373Watch Repair0.330,9001504420
318 138Emergency Mgmt Specialist0.347,41049812130
319 293Commercial Designer0.354,560556485130
320 285Light Truck Driver0.325,300481,0511,1409
321 233Heat Treating Equip Oper0.330,8500-1427230
322 349Fiberglass Laminator0.325,9805633352
323 230Chemical Tech0.339,24037761650
324 264Industrial Truck Oper0.327,2702-16376240
325 475Extruding Machine Oper0.2928,2500-694870
326 542Sales0.2949,6105181,5621,6934
327 296Animal Breeder0.2927,09040111150
328 367Food Drying Machine Operator0.2923,51001119210
329 182Lay-Out Workers0.2933,6003-191080
330 336Mgr Of Food0.2926,98014118179094
331 344School Bus Drivers0.2924,820494554971
332 337Faller0.2928,7102-7131231
333 214Paper Goods Mach Oper0.2931,4900-17113930
334 330Pipelayer Helper0.2923,91031285953
335 224Fabric Menders0.2928,370902230
336 272Court Clerk0.2930,9802491151253
337 381Gaming Cage Worker0.2923,15001118200
338 475Extruding Machine Operator0.2927,7100-681751
339 130Motorboat Operator0.2932,350210339
340 588Meter Reader0.2930,3306-1047420
341 377Billing And Posting Clerk0.2928,8501545425662
342 277Airfield Operations0.2937,630320550
343 482Sawing Machine Oper0.2924,2800565688
344 430Motor Vehicle Operations0.2922,71001276852
345 546Woodworking Mach Oper0.2923,940061001063
346 384Shipping Clerk0.2926,070647697970
347 119Fish And Game Warden0.2943,700420880
348 alesperson0.2827,4306-12382332
349 399Training And Development0.2847,83056192102492
350 307Vending Machine Repair0.2828,7108-3484618
351 360Roustabout0.2825,7000-144430
352 322Tool Grinder0.2830,6400-17221819
353 267Conveyor Oper0.2827,2200-750460
354 500Costume Attendant0.2825,7402225451
355 362Computer Specialist0.2868,57068151361577
356 361Carpenter Helper0.2823,0603121091223
357 378Installation Helper0.2822,2700121631830
358 388Musical Instrument Repair0.2829,2001506618
359 306Postmaster0.2855,79055026260
360 479Upholsterer0.2827,2300-8555026
361 223Media Worker0.2842,5704811364032
362 528Animal Trainer0.2826,3102423435357
363 271Metal Worker0.2834,7103-2649362
364 270Lathe Oper0.2832,1600-2368523
365 289Procurement Clerk0.2833,10024-278761
366 375Electrician Helper0.2823,760371051123
367 427Jeweler0.2829,75016-1525151
368 462Construction Helper0.2722,76031138423
369 412Food Batchmaker0.2723,100511951052
370 386Real Estate Agent0.2739,760451143247860
371 368Nursing Aide0.2722,1807181,4471,7112
372 325Cutting Machine Oper0.2727,9303-979712
373 420Production Worker0.2724,890523053124
374 445Home Care Aide0.2717,77010517671,1568
375 516Furniture Finisher0.2725,0100-2313020
376 355Plating Machine Oper0.2727,4700-1142370
377 254Milling Machine Oper0.2731,5703-2029230
378 300Bookbinder0.2730,2607-13761
379 394Slaughterer0.2721,6902131221381
380 431Ophthalmic Tech0.2725,46012729310
381 396Ambulance Drivers0.2720,37001822260
382 463Tire Repair0.2721,3406201061273
383 491Govt Eligibility Interviewer0.2737,5403841121160
384 351Insurance Claims0.2731,1202202542510
385 139Forest Fire Inspector0.2732,940270220
386 444Electromech Equip Assemb0.2727,5606-760550
387 389Database Admin0.2764,67072291191541
388 352Pr Mgr0.2782,180751650582
389 464Etcher0.2725,5900-6141317
390 376Inspectors0.2729,42014-64914572
391 392Pourer And Caster0.2729,5700-1915120
392 398Groundskeeper0.2721,2606181,2201,44121
393 317Crushing Mach Oper0.2728,0804-1142371
394 358Grinding Machine Oper0.2728,0800-15101851
395 390Concierge0.2724,600171520230
396 417Loan Interviewer0.2630,9702402562543
397 395Receptionist0.2622,90013171,1731,3751
398 382Dietetic Tech0.2624,040161625290
399 405Gaming Workers0.2621,890112015181
400 383Agricultural Tech0.2631,73032826281
401 403Desktop Publisher0.2634,13032032322
402 354Assembler0.2626,7305-82922662
403 453Adult Literacy Teacher0.2643,910541476870
404 347Interpreter0.2635,5604824415122
405 Team Assemblers0.2624,190501,2741,2752
406 385Mobile Home Install0.2625,0800-7121120
407 363Cementing Machine Oper0.2625,1700-823210
408 333Drilling Machine Oper0.2629,8700-2243330
409 443Interior Designer0.2642,2605519728626
410 424Statistical Asst0.2631,25030423247
411 537Fabric Patternmaker0.2632,73010-21976
412 467Molder0.2625,010102565724
413 452Advertising Sale Agent0.2642,75056211702056
414 379Painter0.2622,9704331324
415 357Social Science Tech0.2637,920461166732
416 456Secretary0.2627,4501811,9401,9621
417 366Ground Maintenance0.2620,420618283316
418 345Coating Machine Oper0.2626,8304-11106934
419 409Psychiatric Tech0.2527,78016-262600
420 415Barber0.2523,15042606181
421 425Cosmetologist0.2521,32061261769445
422 435Designer0.2543,8705513161828
423 458Metal Cutting Mach Oper0.2526,3400-142722311
424 402Employment Specialist0.2542,42056181972332
425 495Sport Book Writer0.2518,800113318241
426 400Baker0.2522,0308101491644
427 448Molding Machine Oper0.2525,5600-121571371
428 450Meat Trimmer0.2520,3702111441601
429 474Manicurist0.2519,19010287810038
430 541Set And Exhibit Designer0.2541,8205517121430
431 410Psychiatric Aide0.2523,9007062622
432 335Prepress Tech0.2533,31016-2071560
433 509Broadcast Tech0.2530,6903511384212
434 374Roofer Helper0.2521,7603522233
435 477Security Guard0.2521,53013171,0401,2161
436 414Title Examiner0.2536,02038069687
437 391Law Clerk0.2536,36038-2373612
438 348Interviewer0.2526,29024102212421
439 447Janitor And Cleaner0.2519,9304142,3872,7325
440 121Biomed Engineer0.2573,930762114170
441 544Travel Agent0.2529,21026110110213
442 471Health Educator0.2541,330582662780
443 515Private Cook0.2522,87050550
444 484Office Clerk0.2423,71019133,2003,6041
445 438Restaurant Cook0.2420,3405128509481
446 434Agricultural Worker0.2422,4704020200
447 397Industrial Engineer0.2468,62074202012421
448 524Cafeteria Cook0.2420,4105114014451
449 502Fiber Extruding Oper0.2428,67010-1618150
450 485Physical Therapist Aide0.2422,060232646580
451 408Information Clerk0.2431,15021-122452131
452 556Credit Analyst0.2452,35060167680
453 476Music Director/Composer0.2439,7505313687745
454 465Hand Grinding0.2423,8804-645421
455 505Library Tech0.2426,5602791211320
456 593Woodworker0.2422,580105202143
457 413Film And Video Editor0.2446,6705810212316
458 571Petroleum Engineer0.2498,38080617189
459 411Operation Research0.2464,650711258650
460 372Foundry Mold Maker0.2428,7400-2615111
461 468Word Processor0.2429,43019-111791589
462 489Teller0.2422,14016136086890
463 426Compliance Officer0.2347,0505852372490
464 421Protective Svcs0.2326,920311283930
465 436Packaging Mach Oper0.2322,9905-43863650
466 457Laborer0.2321,220522,4162,4661
467 419Painter Helper0.2321,3303024244
468 439Cooling Equip Oper0.2323,8805-811100
469 428Reservation Agent0.2328,5402911651674
470 422Crossing Guard0.2321,0605369710
471 442Cook0.2321,6105016161
472 314Forging Machine Oper0.2328,9800-2831220
473 473Veterinary Asst0.2319,960101575863
474 449Bicycle Repair0.2321,79060994
475 570Office Machine Operator0.2324,54014-294910
476 Fishermen0.2327,25011-15383266
477 446Soc Science Asst0.2333,860461118202
478 513Travel Guide0.2328,4602905526
479 492Cooking Machine Oper0.2321,2800-444420
480 499Counter Clerk0.2319,57016234775861
481 407Hand Cutter0.2322,3303-629272
482 418Gaming Booth Cashier0.2320,68010727291
483 520Vehicle Equipment Cleaner0.2318,0603143684207
484 481Tailors0.2322,910142545545
485 423Cleaning Equip Oper0.2322,8500-1216140
486 498Probation Officer0.2242,5005812941050
487 478Graphic Designer0.2239,900551026128625
488 461Production Worker Helper0.2220,740405425390
489 625Credit Checker0.2229,97028-869632
490 501Weigher And Measurer0.2225,37013-1079701
491 455Taxi Driver0.2220,350151322925830
492 483Loan Counselor0.2235,79049633354
493 490Data Entry0.2224,69018-33132992
494 584Prod Promo/Demo0.2222,150261810512421
495 506Fine Artist0.2241,9705810303363
496 440Health Safety Engineer0.2266,290741225281
497 338Athlete0.2241,0606017182127
498 538Machine Feeder0.2222,6400-151481250
499 511Food Preparation0.2217,78061456640
500 487Residential Advisor0.2222,670281857675
501 561Nonrestaurant Food Server0.2218,0909161892191
502 629Mail Clerk0.2123,8109-111521341
503 406Parking Enforcement0.2130,16042911120
504 550Advertising Mgr0.2173,060766475013
505 526Self-Enrichment Edu Teacher0.2133,440542326132222
506 486Private Detective0.2133,7505217526130
507 567Courier0.2121,54012013413419
508 622Artist0.2141,990587141540
509 532Maid0.2117,5805131,4701,6567
510 433Driver Sales0.2120,7704-444542110
511 557Farm Animal Worker0.2119,060431071100
512 517Teacher Asst0.2120,74018101,3121,4490
513 553Service Station Attendant0.2117,750613961081
514 535Switchboard Oper0.2122,64010-71771630
515 480Med Lab Tech0.2132,84051151511741
516 529Mgmt Analyst0.2168,050782267882727
517 488Bindery Worker0.2125,5707-2165511
518 514Food Prep0.2117,4107159021,0401
519 543Hotel Clerk0.2118,46014172192570
520 519Laundry Worker0.2117,8505102392628
521 572Computer Oper0.2133,56027-24130982
522 518Camera Oper0.2140,0605811273017
523 521Community Svcs0.2135,21058251181480
524 525Community Svcs Mgr0.2152,07072251301626
525 545Engineering Mgr0.21105,4308471872010
526 539Agricultural Equip Oper0.2120,2304-459560
527 287Timing Device Assemb0.2128,8305-32322
528 437Undergrad Edu Admin0.2173,99078151311503
529 583Locker Room Attendant0.2118,610222619241
530 611Personal Fin Advisor0.266,120814117624831
531 441K-12 Edu Admin0.277,7407882262433
532 605Textile Furnishings0.222,95010-1224215
533 568Telephone Oper0.234,14011-4027162
534 494Animal Caretaker0.218,140161815718526
535 534Short Order Cook0.217,880551952052
536 575Shoe And Leather Worker0.220,4500-12161452
537 530Tech Writer0.258,050742049596
538 592Tour Guide0.220,4202923404920
539 562Child Care0.217,63015181,3881,63634
540 243Marine Engineer0.272,990781191012
541 642Sale Engineer0.277,72079876820
542 451Electronic Equip Assemb0.225,5606-262131560
543 633Textile Winding Oper0.223,0500-2243330
544 510Application Sw Engineer0.279,78085455077332
545 540Slot Key Person0.222,7203010202231
546 630Occupational Health0.258,03072945492
547 551Stock Clerk0.220,4408-71,7051,5740
548 459Model0.223,3402602220
549 581Fitnes Trainer0.225,91047272352988
550 554Coil Winders0.1926,3006-2923160
551 New Account Clerk0.1928,39028-1581680
552 636Textile Bleaching Operator0.1923,2900-2519140
553 536Computer Programmer0.1965,51073-34354174
554 353Material Engineer0.1973,99077022220
555 668Textile Knitting Oper0.1924,2900-2940286
556 497Forest Worker0.1920,810225202114
557 659Nuclear Engineer0.1990,22082715160
558 547Bellhop0.1918,360171049540
559 610Parking Lot Attendant0.1917,32014131351522
560 566Fast Food Prep0.1915,0505182,5032,9550
561 552Dishwasher0.1915,7503105175710
562 609Financial Examiner0.1965,37076826280
563 631Mining And Geo Engineer0.1972,1608014780
564 614Commercial Pilot0.1957,480741128312
565 Grader And Sorter0.1917,2000-142410
566 504Office Support0.1927,20032-83202907
567 558Order Clerk0.1926,34016-232712052
568 496System Sw Engineer0.1985,37085283504492
569 549Pressers0.1917,8003-377743
570 565Retail Salesperson0.1919,76025124,4775,0344
571 597Shampooer0.1916,1701014293345
572 607Preschool Teacher0.1922,68043264375521
573 531Convention Planner0.1942,180672051616
574 590Door-To-Door Salespeople0.1920,19021420020794
575 645Shoe Machine Oper0.1921,9100-24430
576 616Electronic Engineer0.1881,0508141381432
577 560Counter Attendant0.1816,1308105335870
578 574Biological Tech0.1835,710601579910
579 586Conservation Tech0.1830,88046-234332
580 585Telemarketer0.1820,99014-93953561
581 579Gaming Dealer0.1814,7301124841041
582 573Cafeteria Helper0.1815,3106124164660
583 512Funeral Attendant0.1820,350291233371
584 606Agricultural Engineer0.1866,030760330
585 624Sewers0.1820,37014-8232158
586 608Textile Cutting Oper0.1821,6200-2519140
587 563Producer And Director0.1856,31075119310330
588 564Fast Food Cook0.1815,410586296811
589 601Transportation Attendant0.1820,070311421240
590 604Mechanical Engineer0.1869,8507842262352
591 508Edu Admin0.1866,620781030333
592 594Recreation Attendant0.1816,29022252473081
593 623Electrical Engineer0.1875,9308171531632
594 598Photographer0.1826,170461112213554
595 493Pharmacy Aide0.1819,44010-950454
596 603Announcer0.1724,990380121230
597 582Usher0.1715,88018171031210
598 596Crop Worker0.1716,5404-26035830
599 555roofreader0.1727,45047618192
600 559Engineer0.1781,6608261701806
601 600Bartender0.1716,35017114955511
602 628Marriage Therapist0.1743,210732825326
603 527Packer0.1717,6503-118347300
604 542Sales0.1734,25062141802057
605 599Host And Hostesse0.1716,17017113513880
606 578Library Asst0.1721,6403781161250
607 595Cashier0.1716,81010-23,5003,3821
608 638Religious Activity Director0.1734,2606420991190
609 612Edu Counselor0.1647,53073122602926
610 503Nutritionist0.1646,98072957628
611 602Teacher And Instructor0.1628,66054974180519
612 626Social Svc Asst0.1625,58058343394530
613 577Budget Analyst0.1661,43078662660
614 239Wood Patternmaker0.1631,51010-49210
615 617Waiter And Waitresse0.1614,85014112,3612,6150
616 613Lifeguard And Ski Patrol0.1617,16031191141360
617 655Occupational Health Tech0.1642,160722010120
618 618Radio/TV Announcer0.1624,31038-7595430
619 683Instructional Coord0.1552,79079231291593
620 591Accountant And Auditor0.1554,63079181,2741,50010
621 649Sewing Machine Oper0.1518,8105-262331708
622 580Personal Care0.1518,97021-12867519
623 671Religious Worker0.1524,330562139470
624 156Wood Model Maker0.1428,47010-49210
625 621Aerospace Engineer0.1487,610871090991
626 615Market Research0.1458,82082202342817
627 726Space Scientist0.1477,15085119100
628 644Drug Abuse Counselor0.1434,0407335831126
629 673Athletic Trainer0.1436,560722417212
630 Coaches And Scouts0.1426,950601521724923
631 620Movie Projectionist0.1417,45029011118
632 637Counselor0.1438,210731927326
633 472Radio Oper0.1437,89035-492118
634 634Med Social Worker0.1443,04077241241543
635 641Mental Health Counselor0.1434,38073301001306
636 650Recreation Worker0.1420,47047133203609
637 663Clergy0.1439,68075194044810
638 651Environmental Engineer0.1369,940862654683
639 643Merchandise Displayer0.1323,8205510879629
640 619Photo Process Worker0.1323,28019-3724151
641 678Healthcare Practitioner0.1337,200721553610
642 646Social Worker0.1343,580771866783
643 587Tax Preparer0.1327,36054-71009233
644 656Financial Analyst0.1366,59087332212958
645 632Craft Artist0.1324,090581191045
646 674Cartographer0.1248,240822512153
647 675Surveyor0.1248,290822360744
648 460Soil Plant Scientist0.1256,080826161720
649 PR Specialist0.1247,35081182432865
650 654Sport Officials0.1222,8806016192224
651 660Mental Health Worker0.1235,41077301221593
652 469Food Scientist0.1253,810828121316
653 523Animal Scientist0.1247,8008220569
654 647File Clerk0.1222,09020-402341372
655 672Civil Engineer0.1268,60087182563025
656 666Family Social Worker0.1137,48077192823363
657 635Pre-K Edu Admin0.1137,740782356693
658 670Rehabilitation Counselor0.1129,20073231411736
659 697Farm Mgmt Advisor0.1141,71079715164
660 576Political Scientist0.190,140900558
661 680Physical Therapist0.166,20089271732208
662 661Floral Designer0.121,70055-8877933
663 684Editor0.146,99081212212413
664 664Architects0.164,150881713215520
665 677Writer0.148,640841313515366
666 657Recreational Therapist0.134,99077425260
667 698Curator0.146,300863010131
668 679Conservationist0.0954,97086520214
669 652Photo Machine Operator0.0919,50019-4849251
670 691Therapist0.0942,250839353865
671 667Natural Science Mgr0.09100,080931041451
672 688Librarian0.0949,0608541581641
673 682Forester0.0951,19086813144
674 702Edu/Training/Library0.0832,1607911991103
675 695Chemical Engineer0.0878,860911030332
676 676Landscape Architect0.0855,1408814283219
677 AV Collection Specialist0.0840,53079-13764
678 648Occupation Therapy0.0860,4709023991229
679 704Special Edu Pre-K Thru 50.0846,36087202192620
680 705Special Edu Teachers 6-80.0847,65087161021180
681 640Social Scientist0.0864,92090636387
682 716New Analyst0.0846,7108508811
683 689Survey Researcher0.0833,360821527317
684 703Special Edu Teachers 9-120.0848,3308791381500
685 706Archivist0.0840,7308617671
686 681Historian0.0748,5209033345
687 653Geographer0.0762,990900115
688 700Geoscientist0.0772,660932331382
689 692Sociologist0.0760,290900440
690 454Mathematician0.0786,930930330
691 696Hydrologist0.0766,26093258102
692 709Material Scientist0.0674,610931010111
693 569Mathematical Scientist0.0663,570933010130
694 745Legislator0.0615,66065065650
695 736Audiologist0.0657,120918121310
696 710Museum Tech0.0634,34086911121
697 669Anthropologist0.0649,930900666
698 720Reporter0.0633,470852596011
699 708Urban Planner0.0656,630921534390
700 707Environmental Scientist0.0656,1009325831042
701 693Statistician0.0565,72093922246
702 690Physicist0.0594,24095617181
703 717Biochemist0.0576,320951520233
704 686Astronomer0.0595,740950220
705 662Health Practitioner0.0561,5709412657314
706 718Chemist0.0559,87093884911
707 722Microbiologist0.0457,980951217193
708 714Pharmacist0.0494,52097222432961
709 721Biologist0.0460,94095329303
710 728Zoologist0.0453,300951020223
711 711Elementary School Teacher0.0345,57095141,5401,7490
712 712Middle School Teacher0.0346,30095116587320
713 665Mathematical Tech0.0337,880930110
714 719Voc Ed Teacher0.0344,24095-516150
715 723Secondary School Teacher0.0247,7409661,0381,0960
716 725Secondary Voc Ed Teacher0.0248,69096-496910
717 741Chiropractor0.0265,2209813536052
718 713Physical Scientist0.0283,45098424253
719 744Speech Pathologist0.0257,71098101101219
720 687Actuary0.0182,800992218220
721 730Lawyer0.01102,470991176184427
722 733Judge0.01101,69099727290
723 694Podiatrist0.01108,220998121324
724 732Dentist0.01132,1401001013614937
725 738Admin Law Judge0.0172,60099015150
726 740Industrial Psychologist0.0186,4209902239
727 742Psychologist0.0176,310998121327
728 734Med Scientist0.0161,6809921871052
729 739Arbitrator0.0149,4909913890
730 743Clinical Counselor0.0159,440991615217634
731 729Dentist Specialist0.0191,20010007729
732 735Life Scientist0.0156,970991414163
733 737Epidemiologist056,670990553
734 701Economist077,010100715167
735 715Veterinarian071,99010035628417
736 639Optometrist091,0401009333626

Interpreting the Results

The career Index weighting is calculated as follows:

Index = salary * (1 + growth%) * (% not requiring college degree)

After calculations, we normalized the Index so that the best rated career has a score of 1.0.

Highlights

Lots of Openings

If you want to position yourself for maximum growth in job openings, the various medical fields are promising, including:

  • Dental Hygienist
  • Sonographer
  • Radiation Therapist
  • Physical Therapy Assistant
  • Respiratory Therapist
  • Cardiovascular Tech

Another good (and growing) area is utilities, including:

  • Electric Power Equipment Installation
  • Electric Power-Line Installation
  • Electric Industry Equipment Installation
  • Telecomm Equipment Installation
  • Telecomm Line Installation

High Pay

For high pay without a heavyweight college degree, at the cost of some job stress, think about:

  • Air traffic control
  • Management, especially in the transportation, construction, HR, and finance areas

Self-Employment

If you're looking to be self-employed, consider:

  • Construction management
  • Skilled trades, such as mason, plumber, tilesetter, carpenter, etc.
  • Sales and sales management
  • Starting your own company

College and Career Sections of the Site

  • College Search Tools and Reference. Find colleges by location, size, degree programs, athletics, admission requirements, student body characteristics, and more.
  • Career and School Directory. Detailed info on hundreds of career types, including numbers of jobs and salaries by city, and directory of schools for each career.

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