Finding high-paying jobs without needing a traditional four-year degree is more important than ever. Whether you’re starting a new career or looking for different options, there are many opportunities to earn $60 an hour or more.
See 15 jobs that pay $60 an hour, both with and without a college degree. Knowing about these well-paying jobs will allow you to make informed decisions regarding your future.
Jobs That Pay $60 an Hour Without a Degree
Finding high-paying jobs without a college degree is more accessible than you might think. Here are some careers where you can earn $60 an hour or more:
1. Elevator Installer and Repairer
Elevator installers and repairers handle the installation, maintenance, and repair of elevators, escalators, and similar systems. This specialist industry necessitates rigorous training and certification but not a college education. The median hourly wage is around $49.24, with the top 10% earning over $60 per hour.
2. Radiation Therapist
Radiation therapists provide radiation therapy to cancer patients and others. While a degree in radiation therapy or a related field is typically required, it doesn’t need to be a four-year degree. The median hourly wage is about $40, with the top 10% earning over $60 per hour.
3. Electrical Power-Line Installer and Repairer
These professionals construct, maintain, and repair electrical power transmission and distribution systems. This physically demanding work necessitates specific training and certification, but not a college degree. The typical hourly pay is approximately $37, with the top 10% earning more than $60 per hour.
4. Subway and Streetcar Operator
Subway and streetcar operators ensure the safe and efficient operation of public transportation systems. A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required, but not a college degree. The median hourly wage is about $28, with the top 10% earning over $60 per hour.
5. Detailer
Detailers are experts in methodically cleaning, polishing, and restoring vehicles both inside and out. This position needs attention to detail and specific training, but no college degree. The median hourly wage is around $16, with the top 10% earning over $60 per hour.
6. Makeup Artist
Makeup artists create and apply makeup for fashion, film, television, and special events. While a college degree is unnecessary, specialized training and a strong portfolio are essential. The median hourly wage is about $27, with the top 10% earning over $60 per hour.
7. Web Developer
Web developers create, develop, and upkeep websites and web applications. While a college degree is not usually required, many businesses prefer applicants with a bachelor’s degree in computer science, web development, or a similar profession. The median hourly wage is around $35, with the top 10% earning over $60 per hour.
8. Commercial Pilot
Commercial pilots fly planes, transporting passengers and cargo safely and efficiently. A college degree is not required, but commercial pilots must have a commercial pilot’s license and extensive flight experience. The median hourly wage is about $40, with the top 10% earning over $60 per hour.
9. Real Estate Broker
Real estate brokers help people sell, buy, and rent out their properties. Although a college degree is not required, real estate brokers must hold a real estate license and have extensive knowledge of the local market. The median hourly wage is around $30, with the top 10% earning over $60 per hour.
10. Funeral Service Manager
Funeral service managers oversee the operations of funeral homes and crematoriums. While a college degree is not mandatory, many employers prefer candidates with a degree in funeral service or a related field. The median hourly wage is about $30, with the top 10% earning over $60 per hour.
Jobs That Pay $60 an Hour With a Degree
Earning a high salary often involves obtaining a degree, which opens doors to advanced knowledge and specialized skills. Here are some professions where you can earn $60 an hour or more, all of which typically require a degree.
1. Architect
Architects design buildings and other structures, ensuring they are functional, safe, and aesthetically pleasing. This role typically requires a bachelor’s or master’s degree in architecture, along with professional licensing. The median hourly wage for architects is about $38, but experienced architects can earn over $60 per hour, making it a lucrative career for those with the right qualifications.
2. Software Developer
Software developers design, create, and maintain software applications. A bachelor’s degree in computer science or software engineering is typically necessary. The median hourly wage is about $50, with top earners making over $60 per hour. This is a prime example of a $ 60-per-hour job requiring a degree.
3. Pharmacist
Pharmacists dispense medications and advise on their use. This position requires a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree. The median hourly wage for pharmacists is around $58, with the top earners making over $60 per hour, making it a lucrative career path for those with a degree.
4. Financial Manager
Financial managers are responsible for an organization’s financial well-being. A bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, or a related discipline is usually necessary, with many holding an MBA. The median hourly wage is about $65, with top earners making significantly more, positioning it as one of the jobs that pay $60 an hour with a degree.
5. Air Traffic Controller
Aviation traffic controllers are responsible for ensuring that aviation traffic flows safely and smoothly. This job requires an associate’s or bachelor’s degree, often from an FAA-approved Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative program. The median hourly wage is around $59, with top earners making over $60 per hour, highlighting it as one of the $60 per hour jobs.
6. Nurse Anesthetist
Nurse anesthetists provide anesthesia and offer care prior to, during, and following surgical procedures. This position requires a master’s or doctoral degree in nursing anesthesia. The median hourly wage is about $78, with top earners making over $90 per hour, showcasing it as one of the top jobs that pay $60 an hour with a degree.
7. Physician Assistant
Physician assistants evaluate ailments, create treatment programs, and write prescriptions. A master’s degree from a recognized physician assistant program is necessary. The median hourly wage is around $55, with top earners making over $60 per hour, making it a notable career among jobs that pay $60 an hour.
8. Petroleum Engineer
Petroleum engineers design and develop techniques for obtaining oil and gas. A bachelor’s degree in petroleum engineering or a comparable subject is required. The median hourly wage is about $65, with top earners making significantly more, highlighting it as a prominent example of jobs that pay $60 an hour with a degree.
9. Data Scientist
To assist enterprises in making informed decisions, data scientists evaluate complex data sets. A degree in data science, computer science, or a similar discipline is usually necessary, frequently at the master’s level. The median hourly wage is around $50, with top earners making over $60 per hour, making it one of the sought-after $60 per hour jobs.
10. Dentist
Dentists diagnose and treat dental problems. Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degrees are required for this career. The median hourly wage is about $70, with top earners making significantly more, positioning it as one of the lucrative jobs that pay $60 an hour with a degree.
Find the Right Job That Pays $60 an Hour Now!
Whether you’re aiming for a high-paying job with or without a degree, there are numerous opportunities to earn $60 an hour or more. Exploring these well-compensated careers, from elevator installers and radiation therapists to software developers and pharmacists, can help you make informed decisions about your future. Understanding the education and training required for each role will enable you to pursue a path that aligns with your skills and interests, ensuring a rewarding and financially stable career.
