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5 in-demand jobs that can pay over 0,000 and don’t require a bachelor’s degree – NBC New York
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5 in-demand jobs that can pay over $100,000 and don’t require a bachelor’s degree – NBC New York

If you’re looking for a career that pays well, doesn’t require a bachelor’s degree, and offers strong job security, you may want to consider a job in the skilled trades.

The US is facing “record pressure” for blue-collar workers as tradespeople exit the workforce or retire and fewer young people enter fields such as construction, plumbing and transportation, according to recent research from McKinsey & Co.

Labor shortageheightened by disruptions to in-person work and material availability during the Covid-19 pandemic, have intensified competition for talent, leading to over 20% increase in wages for skilled jobs from 2020, reports McKinsey & Co.

Nearly one-third (35%) of the fastest-growing jobs in the U.S. are in skilled trades, with more than 1.5 million. new jobs are expected between now and 2032, according to the latest figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Blue-collar jobs in manufacturing, aviation and energy are not only in high demand, but also offer salaries that rival those of many white-collar occupations, Nathan Soto, career expert at Resume Genius, said in an email by CNBC Make It.

“As people continue to seek higher-paying jobs with low barriers to entry, blue-collar jobs have seen a resurgence of interest – especially among Gen Z“, he added.

Although many blue-collar jobs do not require a four-year degree, most roles require certifications, licenses and, in some cases, extensive on-the-job training.

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

Elevator technician

These workers install, repair, and maintain elevators, escalators, moving walkways, chairlifts, and other elevators.

To become an elevator technician, you’ll need a high school diploma and to complete an apprenticeship program sponsored by a union, industry association, or individual contractor. Most states require a technician to be licensed and complete additional on-the-job training.

Average annual salary: $102,420

Power plant operators

These workers control boilers, turbines, generators and other systems in a facility that generates and distributes electricity.

Power plant operators typically only need a high school diploma, although the role also requires extensive on-the-job training. You will also need a license from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.

Average annual salary: $100,890

air traffic controller

Air traffic controllers direct aircraft on the ground and in the air, controlling all ground traffic on runways and taxiways and giving landing and takeoff instructions to pilots.

To become an air traffic controller, you’ll need at least an associate degree from the Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative program and complete training at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) academy as well as other on-the-job training.

Average annual salary: $137,380

Nuclear technician

Nuclear technicians work alongside physicists, engineers and other scientists in the production of nuclear power, the operation and maintenance of nuclear testing equipment. Testing air, water and soil samples for radioactive contamination can be another aspect of the job.

To become a nuclear technician, you’ll need an associate’s degree in nuclear science or nuclear technology. Extensive on-the-job training is also required.

Average annual salary: $101,740

Front line supervisors of police and detectives

Front-line police supervisors and detectives supervise members of a police force, manage schedules, train staff and coordinate investigations. Supervisors often act as liaisons between officers and higher-ranking officials, maintaining order and communication.

To become a supervisor, you’ll need at least a high school diploma and previous experience in the field, such as working as a police officer or detective. Some employers may require an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.

Average annual salary: $101,750

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