High-Paying Jobs with a High School Diploma
Not everyone wants to attend college, and some people are more ideally suited to careers that involve on-the-job training because they don't do well with formal academic studies. Thankfully, there is a wide range of high paying jobs with a high school diploma as a minimum requirement.
| Job Title | Median Salary (2019)* | Job Outlook (2019-2029)* |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Therapy Aides | $48,990 | 29% |
| Secretaries and Administrative Assistants | $39,850 | -9% |
| Construction Laborers and Helpers | $36,000 | 5% |
| Subway and Streetcar Operators | $67,880 | 5% |
| Security Guards | $34,190 | 3% |
| Postmasters | $76,900 | -14% (All postal service workers) |
| Private Investigators | $50,510 | 8% |
| Power Plant Operators | $85,950 | -16% |
| Elevator Installers and Repairers | $84,990 | 7% |
| First-Line Supervisors of Non-Retail Sales Workers | $74,760** | -1%** |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics; **O*NET
High School Diploma Jobs: Duties & Requirements
What can you do with a high school diploma? Read on for an in-depth look at some of the careers with a high school diploma as a minimum requirement.
Physical Therapy Aides
Physical therapy aides are healthcare professionals who can start their career with a high school diploma. They learn through on-the-job training. They help patients make appointments and help keep the medical offices and treatment rooms clean. They may also do other tasks, such as completing insurance forms or assisting patients with mobility issues when they need to move from room to room.
Secretaries and Administrative Assistants
Secretaries and administrative assistants typically work in offices and they do things such as write and file documents, answer incoming phone calls and book appointments. It's possible to enter this career field with a high school diploma. Experience with computers is an asset, and those in this field learn through on-the-job training. With practical experience it's possible to advance to being an executive secretary.
Construction Laborers and Helpers
Construction laborers and helpers do not necessarily even need a high school diploma, although completing high school vocational or math classes is an asset. These construction workers learn through on-the-job training. They may perform a wide range of tasks on construction sites, such as unloading materials or operating equipment. They may also assist tradesmen, such as electricians.
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Subway and Streetcar Operators
Subway and streetcar operators are responsible for driving subways and streetcars. They follow assigned routes and schedules and pick up and drop off passengers. Subway and streetcar operators usually need to have a high school diploma and they receive training from experienced operators once hired.
Security Guards
Many jobs that only require a high school diploma are available for security guards. They learn through on-the-job training. They are responsible for protecting property and they help prevent crime by monitoring their assigned area and addressing any suspicious behavior. If they apprehend someone who is committing a crime they may testify in court.
Postmasters
The U.S. postal service employs postmasters, one of the highest paying jobs you can get with a high school diploma. The postmaster is essentially the general manager of a post office, overseeing all operations in the branch and coordinating all administrative services. No college degree is required because postmasters receive on-the-job training.
Private Investigators
Private investigators carry out detective work for a private company or individual, seeking out information about financial, professional, legal or personal matters. While it is difficult to get private investigation jobs straight out of high school, those hoping to break into the profession can start by researching their states' regulations on licensure. Most states require private investigators to have a license, and it is also beneficial to have certification. Both of these can be earned with only a high school diploma.
Power Plant Operators
Power plant operators are responsible for the systems that generate electricity. They receive rigorous on-the-job training and may also need to undergo a background check. This is one of the highest paying jobs with a high school diploma as its minimum requirement, as power plant operators earn a median annual salary of $85,950.
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Elevator Installers and Repairers
As the name suggests, elevator installers and repairers are responsible for the installation and maintenance of elevators in public buildings, workplaces and residences. One of the best jobs with a high school diploma as its minimum requirement in terms of salary, elevator installers and repairers are usually required to have completed an apprenticeship before they can begin working full-time. In most states, a license is also required.
First-Line Supervisors of Non-Retail Sales Workers
Plenty of good paying jobs with high school diploma requirements are available for first-line supervisors of non-retail sales workers, who oversee the activities of employees outside of the retail sector. They may also be expected to take charge of the budgeting and perform personnel work.