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10 Jobs That Pay $70,000+ That Actually Mean It When They Say ‘No Experience Necessary’

Most of these jobs require no college degree and provide on-the-job training.

By Andy Lindquist , Edited by Jessica Gibson

Updated April 20, 2026

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Whether you're just starting your job journey or you're looking to break out of a rut and do something different, finding a lucrative role is crucial. Given that the median average salary in the U.S. is $66,622, anything above that will significantly lower your financial stress and put more money in your pocket.

There are high-paying jobs that don't require you to have an advanced degree or go back to school. Many of these roles offer apprenticeships or other on-the-job training, making them perfect for early-career professionals and older adults looking to change things up.

Here are 10 jobs that pay $70,000+ and require little to no experience.

Editor's note: All salary, requirements, and growth figures data are sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

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Power plant operator

Median annual salary: $103,600

In this job, you will help manage the operations at a power plant. That means controlling the systems that generate and distribute electrical power. There is a significant learning curve, but there's plenty of on-the-job training for those willing to put in the work.

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Radiologic and MRI tech

Median annual salary: $78,980

In this role, you'll take X-ray and related medical images to help doctors diagnose patients. If you choose to specialize in MRIs, you'll operate MRI machines, position patients, and capture detailed internal images.

You typically need a postsecondary certificate or an associate degree in radiologic technology (not a full four-year degree). Most programs take 18 to 24 months and include clinical training.

Police officer

Median annual salary: $77,270

Protecting lives, property, and enforcing the law are three main components of being a successful police officer. Beyond having a high school diploma, you'll need to complete the police academy to get a full-time job offer.

Expect to work some crazy hours and encounter all sorts of high-stress situations, but being a police officer offers stability and plenty of other benefits.

Elevator and escalator installer and repairer

Median annual salary: $106,580

You'll get your hands dirty in this role, repairing and installing escalators and elevators in a variety of buildings and businesses. You'll need to complete on-the-job training through an apprenticeship. The 4-year program through the National Elevator Industry Education Program (NEIEP) will prepare you for the rigors of the job.

Given the demand for this type of role, you'll have very stable employment, so the long apprenticeship is worth it long-term.

Boilermaker

Median annual salary: $73,340

In this job, you'll install, repair, assemble, and clean large vats, boilers, and other massive vessels that contain liquids. The best way to get into this profession is to join a boilermaker union and go through an apprenticeship program.

The training takes anywhere from 3 to 4 years before you're fixing boilers, but union membership will guarantee you good wages, retirement benefits, and healthcare, so it's worth the time investment.

Transportation, storage, and distribution manager

Median annual salary: $102,010

You'll manage all the logistics of a supply chain distribution center in this role. That means coordinating with other companies to ensure that you get the necessary goods on time. As the global supply chain becomes increasingly important, this type of job is in high demand.

A background in management and procurement can help your chances, but it's possible to work up to this after you start working for a logistics or procurement company.

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Electrical power-line installer and repairer

Median annual salary: $92,560

Working on power lines can be a great job that offers strong stability and good pay. To become one, you'll need to pass a series of physical and mental aptitude tests before completing some on-the-job training.

The work can be grueling and physically demanding, but the need for power-line workers isn't going away anytime soon. This is not a job for people who are afraid of heights, though.

Airline pilot

Median annual salary: $198,100

Becoming a pilot will require years of flight training and pilot school, but you don't need any prior experience. So long as you're able to pass the rigorous physical tests to get into pilot school, you'll have plenty of lucrative opportunities upon graduating.

Keep in mind that you really need to love flying and traveling for this job to be worth it. Otherwise, the schedule can be pretty demanding.

Transportation inspector

Median annual salary: $83,920

As a transportation inspector, you'll make sure vehicles, equipment, and operations in industries like aviation, rail, trucking, or maritime meet all safety and regulatory standards. That means you'll inspect equipment, review procedures, and investigate violations or accidents to ensure compliance.

Most roles don't require a college degree, but they do require industry experience and provide on-the-job training. It all depends on what area of transportation you want to focus on, as some have more stringent requirements.

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Signal and track switch repairer

Median annual salary: $81,810

As a signal and track switch repairer, you'll install, inspect, and repair the electrical and mechanical systems that control train signals and track switches. That means making sure rail lines operate safely by testing circuits, fixing malfunctions, and performing routine maintenance on trackside equipment.

The job doesn't require a college degree and provides extensive on-the-job training, often through a railroad apprenticeship.

Bottom line

If you're looking to make a career change without going back to college for four years, these roles prove it's absolutely possible to earn $70,000+ with training that happens mainly on the job. Many of these fields offer long-term stability, substantial benefits, and clear paths for advancement so you can move beyond living paycheck to paycheck.

Here's something else to keep in mind: According to the BLS, installation, maintenance, and repair occupations are projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations, meaning demand for workers in these high-paying, no-degree roles is likely to increase.

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