College isn't for everyone and stars like Lady Gaga, Rachael Ray, and Facebook creator Mark Zuckerberg are all proof of that. Although we can't all be big television and music stars or entrepreneurs, there are plenty of careers out there that are fulfilling and bring in a steady income. Many of these jobs offer training and most importantly do not require you to have a degree to be a competitive applicant. Here are five jobs that don't require a degree to get hired:
1. Claims adjuster, examiner and investigator
Job Description: Workers in this field evaluate insurance claims and decide on how much insurance companies have to pay if they are being forced to pay a claim. Although no formal education in insurance is required, employers may prefer candidates who have previous knowledge in insurance.
Typical Education Level Workers Need: High school diploma or equivalent
Average Annual Pay: $61,110
2. Loan Officer
Job Description: Loan officers approve or disapprove loan applications for individuals and businesses. Workers in this field are usually given on-the-job training as they progress in the position.
Typical Education Level Workers Need: High school diploma or equivalent
Average Annual Pay: $67,960
3. Subway operator
Job Description: These workers transport passengers in cities. The vehicles they drive typically travel underground or on above-ground tracks. Employees in this field are given months of on-the-job training, so no prior knowledge is necessary.
Typical Education Level Workers Need: High school diploma or equivalent
Average Annual Pay: $59,400
4. Crane and Tower Operator
Job Description: These workers move machinery such as forklifts and cranes to move objects. Repairing and inspecting the machine is sometimes also a part of the job. These workers are not required to have any form of education at all.
Typical Education Level Workers Need: Less than high school
Average Annual Pay: $50,040
5. Elevator installer and repairer
Job Description: These workers install, repair, and maintain elevators, escalators, and moving walkways. Various states require workers to have licenses to be hired, but most workers gain their experience through shadowing other or through an apprenticeship prior to being hired full time.
Typical Education Level Workers Need: High school diploma or equivalent
Average Annual Pay: $73,560
