Five high-paying jobs that don't require a bachelor's degree.

Consider a job in the skilled trades if you're seeking a well-paying career without a bachelor's degree and with strong job security.

Recent research from McKinsey & Co. reveals that the U.S. is experiencing "record-high pressure" for blue-collar workers due to an aging workforce and a decline in young people entering trades like construction, plumbing, and transportation.

Since 2020, wages for skilled trade jobs have increased by more than 20% due to intensified competition for talent resulting from labor shortages caused by disruptions to in-person work and material availability during the Covid-19 pandemic, according to McKinsey & Co.

Nearly 35% of the fastest-growing jobs in the U.S. are in the skilled trades, with over 1.5 million new jobs projected between now and 2032, according to the latest statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

According to Nathan Soto, a career expert at Resume Genius, blue-collar jobs in manufacturing, aviation, and energy are in high demand and provide salaries that are comparable to many white-collar professions.

Blue-collar jobs have become increasingly popular among Gen Z as people seek higher-paying jobs with low barriers to entry, according to him.

While many blue-collar jobs do not necessitate a four-year degree, most positions demand certifications, licensing, and, in certain instances, extensive on-the-job training.

According to data from Resume Genius and the Bureau of Labor Statistics, five in-demand jobs in the skilled trades that pay over $100,000 and don't require a bachelor's degree are:

Elevator technician

Elevator, escalator, moving walkway, chairlift and other lift maintenance, repair and installation are the tasks performed by these workers.

In order to become an elevator technician, you must obtain a high school diploma and complete an apprenticeship program sponsored by a union, industry association, or individual contractor. Many states mandate that technicians obtain a license and undergo additional on-the-job training.

Median annual salary: $102,420

Power plant operators

The employees manage the boilers, turbines, generators, and other systems in a facility that produces and distributes electricity.

While a high school diploma is typically sufficient for power plant operators, the role also necessitates extensive on-the-job training and a license from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.

Median annual salary: $100,890

Air traffic controller

Air traffic controllers manage both ground and air traffic, directing aircraft on runways and taxiways and issuing landing and takeoff instructions to pilots.

In order to become an air traffic controller, you must obtain an associate's degree from the Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative program and complete training at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) academy, along with additional on-the-job training.

Median annual salary: $137,380

Nuclear technician

Nuclear technicians collaborate with physicists, engineers, and other scientists in the production of nuclear energy, managing and maintaining nuclear testing equipment. In addition to this, they may also be responsible for testing air, water, and soil samples for radioactive contamination.

An associate's degree in nuclear science or nuclear-related technology is necessary to become a nuclear technician, along with extensive on-the-job training.

Median annual salary: $101,740

First-line supervisors of police and detectives

Police and detective supervisors manage schedules, train staff, and coordinate investigations while acting as liaisons between officers and higher-ranking officials, ensuring order and communication.

In order to become a supervisor, you must possess a high school diploma and prior experience in the field, such as working as a police officer or detective. Some companies may demand an associate's or bachelor's degree in criminal justice.

Median annual salary: $101,750

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