Career Options for People Without a Degree Interested in Non-Retail Jobs
There are several options for people who do not have a degree, and who also do not want to work in retail. Some of the jobs require helping others, building outside, or even managing. Though some jobs require a high school diploma or training, these career options do not require completion of a degree program.
| Job Title | Median Salary (2020)* | Job Growth (2019-2029)* |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Care Aid | $27,080 | 34% |
| Lodging Manager | $56,670 | -12% |
| Musician or Singer | $31.40 per hour | 1% |
| Pharmacy Technician | $35,100 | 4% |
| Landscaping or Groundskeeping Worker | $31,730 | 10% |
| Construction Laborer | $37,890 | 5% |
| Childcare Worker | $25,460 | 2% |
| Flight Attendant | $59,050 | 17% |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Career Information for People Without a Degree Interested in Non-Retail Jobs
Personal Care Aide
Personal care aides do not require formal education and much of the training is learned on-the-job. They help clients with tasks such as keeping up with hygiene, planning meals, providing transportation, helping clients pay their bills, and other everyday tasks. They also clean a client's home and provide companionship.
Lodging Manager
Lodging managers make sure that guests visiting their establishment have clean rooms and enjoy their stay. They supervise their employees, assist customers, manage activities, and approve budgets. To be a lodging manager, applicants must have a high school diploma and work experience.
Musician or Singer
Other than those who choose a career in classical music or opera, musicians and singers do not need a degree. Musicians and singers normally perform for audiences after auditioning and rehearsing. This profession requires travel, as concerts and shows can take place anywhere. Most musicians do receive training to perform at the professional level.
Pharmacy Technician
Pharmacy technicians need to have a high school diploma and some on-the-job training. They assist a pharmacist in filling prescriptions, packaging, keeping up with inventory, and sending claims to insurance companies. Pharmacy technicians also assist customers with questions and distribute prescriptions.
Landscaping or Groundskeeping Worker
Landscapers and grounds workers take care of lawns, plants, trees, and landscapes. While grounds workers maintain the grounds, landscapers plant a variety of plants and build walkways and patios. Landscapers and grounds workers are trained while working on the job and do not need a formal education.
Construction Laborer
Construction laborers do not need a degree and learn the details of their trade on the job. They prepare job sites by setting out materials and building temporary structures. They use construction machinery and follow plans developed by their supervisors. Some of the work of construction laborers is hazardous, and with additional training, they can operate specialized equipment.
Childcare Worker
Childcare workers need a high school diploma, though some states may require additional training and licensure. Childcare workers take care of children while family members are not available. They do everything needed to take care of a child such as feeding, cleaning, changing diapers, helping with problems, and playing with them. Throughout the day, childcare workers keep track of what happened to report to guardians.
Flight Attendant
Flight attendants typically only need a high school diploma and receive training while on the job. They also are required to be certified by the Federal Aviation Administration. Flight attendants assist passengers with safety information, drinks and snacks, medical care, and any special accommodations as needed. They also help passengers remain calm in emergency situations.
