News & Trending Jobs & Career News

7 Jobs That Require Minimal Experience (But Pay Over $55 an Hour)

These gigs don't require much from you, but could give a lot in return.

By Brenna Major

Edited by Jessica Gibson

Updated Feb. 5, 2026

Add Us On Google

Your time is valuable. That's why it's important to land a job that uses your unique skills, doesn't bog you down, and pays you well for each of your hardworking hours. For most of us, getting hold of this perfect trifecta is more a matter of finding the right job than having the perfect credentials.

Those with a can-do attitude and some basic skills can tap into great occupations that require minimal experience and ultimately help them get ahead financially. These unicorn roles often include a lot of flexibility and remote work opportunities.

Here are seven jobs that require minimal experience but pay substantial hourly rates.

Editor's note: Pay data was taken from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Resolve $10,000 or more of your debt

National Debt Relief could help you resolve your credit card debt with an affordable plan that works for you. Just tell them your situation, then find out your debt relief options.¹ <p>Clients who complete the program and settle all debts typically save around 45% before fees or 20% including fees over 24–48 months, based on enrolled debts. “Debt-free” applies only to enrolled credit cards, personal loans, and medical bills. Not mortgages, car loans, or other debts. Average program completion time is 24–48 months; not all debts are eligible, and results vary as not all clients complete the program due to factors like insufficient savings. We do not guarantee specific debt reductions or timelines, nor do we assume debt, make payments to creditors, or offer legal, tax, bankruptcy, or credit repair services. Consult a tax professional or attorney as needed. Services are not available in all states. Participation may adversely affect your credit rating or score. Nonpayment of debt may result in increased finance and other charges, collection efforts, or litigation. Read all program materials before enrolling. National Debt Relief’s fees are based on a percentage of enrolled debt. All communications may be recorded or monitored for quality assurance. In certain states, additional disclosures and licensing apply. ©️ 2009–2025 National Debt Relief LLC. National Debt Relief (NMLS #1250950, CA CFL Lic. No. 60DBO-70443) is located at 180 Maiden Lane, 28th Floor, New York, NY 10038. All rights reserved. <b><a href="https://www.nationaldebtrelief.com/licenses/">Click here</a></b> for additional state-specific disclosures and licensing information.</p>

Media executive assistant

Hourly mean wage: $57.67

If you're an organizational guru with a love for communications, you might find yourself looking into becoming an executive assistant in the media world. This career route can pay well if you find the right job fit. With some stellar references under your belt and experience to boot, some executive assistant jobs in this industry pay well, with little schooling required.

Who really has the cheapest auto insurance in your area? Check your zip code here.

AI trainer

Hourly wage: $60 or more

Did you know you could make over $60 per hour as an AI trainer? These professionals write, analyze, edit, and rate interactions between AI models to fine-tune their effectiveness. Many jobs in this field offer on-the-job training and require the trainer to hold a bachelor's degree.

Freelance photographer

Average hourly wage: $63

Getting pictures taken for every occasion is all the rage, so why not get in on the action? Degrees aren't mandatory for a photography career, but you might want to start by working as a second shooter for a more experienced photographer.

A quality camera and editing software could also help you kick-start your portfolio, and you'll be well on your way to a thriving freelance gig.

Freelance UX tester

Median hourly wage: $63.20

A UX (user experience) tester is one of the best-kept secrets in the best-paying freelance tech jobs. These professionals test the usability of different software. Usually, the only requirements are competency and internet access.

Journalist

Hourly wage: up to $77.10

If you have a passion for reporting and writing, becoming a journalist could be just the thing for you. Some journalists have risen through the ranks with minimal schooling. You could look to on-the-job training, a mentor, or an internship to get your foot in the door and become a journalist.

Social media manager

Median hourly wage: $76.76

Social media is another highly demanded career that has allowed many freelancers to work remotely. Social media managers help companies manage their online presence and develop growth strategies. More experienced social media managers can make up to $150 per hour.

This type of position usually doesn't necessitate formal training or credentials. However, minimal experience in managing online platforms is helpful for entering this job market.

Make Money: 8 things to do if you're barely scraping by financially

Freelance bookkeeper

Average hourly wage: up to $100

If you enjoy diving into numbers, bookkeeping can be a rewarding career path that doesn't require years of training. This type of financial expert isn't required to complete CPA coursework.

To get started, check out QuickBooks' courses or dive into YouTube videos from expert bookkeepers. Once you hit the ground running, you could charge up to $100 per hour for your bookkeeping services.

Bottom line

Any shift in your career can come with some growing pains, but certain jobs can help you put more money in your pocket. These nine options are a great place to start, so you won't waste your time with less lucrative gigs.

And if working remotely is your next big goal, the good news is that most of them can be done from the comfort of your own home. But remember that many employers now view remote work as a perk that permits them to pay their work-from-home employees less than their in-office counterparts.

More from FinanceBuzz: