Some full-time jobs require years of experience, educational accreditations, and proven track records of success to even grant the candidate the chance of an interview. There are many saturated job markets, where thousands of applications are submitted daily through hiring portals. The high demand has influenced the strict hiring process, guided by unrealistic candidate expectations, long working hours, poor benefits, and low to average pay. Entry-level positions are no longer a viable option for candidates with minimal experience, since the bar is raised so high.
The desperation for many young applicants is concerning, especially when formal degrees and certifications are a prerequisite to land a job. However, there is light at the end of the tunnel for those applicants who haven’t attended University but possess valubale hands-on skills and aspire to grow with on-the-job training or apprenticeship work. These high-paying positions provide benefit packages designed to keep candidates and their families well. Ready to embark on a successful, high-paying, and rewarding career path? Here are the best high-paying careers that don’t require a four-year college degree.
Hotel Maintenance Mechanic
Many large hotel brands are in the hunt for detail-oriented and technically-gifted candidates to maintain all equipment in functioning capacity and in accordance with company and brand standards. That’s where maintenance mechanics come into play, as the need for preventative maintenance in hotel rooms is integral to the overall efficiency and reputation of the hotel. The average salary of a hotel maintenance mechanic is $30,000-$40,000 annually, while opportunities for advancement can also translate into hefty pay raises.
Generally, maintenance mechanics are responsible for acting promptly in identifying areas of malfunction, servicing the pools, and performing routine maintenance such as painting, floor cleaning, or caulking. Moreover, they are expected to perform minor adjustments on HVAC systems and troubleshoot mechanical or electrical systems. Some of the core skills hiring managers search for are basic knowledge of math, good communication skills, time management skills, ability to work independently and adhere to company standards and policies.
Bartender
Bartenders get the best of both worlds! They have the opportunity to make great cocktails, interact with customers and also make great money. The average salary for a bartender is $30,000, and if you don’t mind staying up late at night, you can certainly pursue this career as a second job to earn some extra money. You can also work as a bartender during the day at a hotel, where hourly pay and tips are certainly a worthwhile investment of your time and effort.
Bartenders are expected to respond to guest and customer inquiries, keep the bar clean and sanitized, maintain an accurate cash register, and prepare drinks and beverages to serve on the bar or through the serving staff. To land the job, you will only need a high school diploma but previous bartending experience might be valuable. Reading, math, and communication skills are also important for maintaining an efficient space for customers, guests, and staff.
Painting/Coating Specialist
Painting specialists are responsible for painting commercial buildings and properties in a timely manner. They should have a firm understanding of painting requirements and guide clients towards the right decisions for their projects. To achieve a polished result, they are required to cover floors, furniture, and other surfaces with masking tape, drop cloths, and other protective coverings.
Among the top qualifications a painting and coating specialist should have are good color vision, attention to detail, dexterity, and familiarity with painting tools, customer service, and teamwork skills. A painter can make up to $70,000 annually if project demand is high.
Welder/Fabricator
Welders are essential workers for infrastructure and fabrication purposes. They perform fitting, layout, welding, finishing, grinding to assemble and fabricate structural steel units, such as bridges and other building products. A college degree is not required, but formal training is indispensable in this field. Usually, your employer will offer this before formally starting your employment, and they will also prompt you to pass a required welding certification exam. Welders can make up to $100,000 with a couple of years of experience. Many welding jobs in PA offer great benefits, financial stability, and great rewards!
Hotel Assistant General Manager
As an assistant general manager at a hotel, you’ll have to assist in and share responsibilities for all areas of the hotel’s operations, such as housekeeping and front desk requirements. You’ll also be tasked with training new employees, managing inventory control, creating weekly staff schedules, handling accounting functions and more. In this career field, you’ll start with earning more than $50,000 annually with the opportunity to climb the corporate ladder.
Finding a job without a four-year college degree shouldn’t be burdensome. If you’re eager to be successful, earn great money and enjoy personal and professional growth and freedom, then many rewarding full-time jobs in Lancaster, PA await you!
