Top 10 Blue-Collar Jobs That Pay $100K+ Without a College Degree

In a world that often equates success with a college diploma, the trades and blue-collar professions continue to quietly deliver high pay, job security, and fulfilling careers. With the rising cost of tuition and student debt, many are now turning to skilled trades and labor-intensive industries — and they’re reaping six-figure rewards.

Here’s a detailed look at 10 blue-collar jobs that can earn you $100,000 or more annually, without needing a four-year college degree.

1. Elevator and Escalator Installer/Repairer

Average Salary: $97,000–$120,000

Training: Apprenticeship (4 years) + license in some states

These professionals install and maintain elevators, escalators, moving walkways, and lifts. It’s physically demanding and highly technical work, often in tight or high-up spaces. Due to high risk and responsibility, the pay is excellent.

Why it Pays: Specialization, union representation, and the critical nature of the work in commercial and residential infrastructure.

2. Commercial Pilot (Non-Airline)

Average Salary: $80,000 – $150,000

Training: FAA training, commercial pilot’s license

You don’t need a college degree to fly private jets, cargo planes, or charter flights. With proper training and FAA certification, commercial pilots can earn six figures — especially those who freelance or fly high-demand routes.

Why it Pays: High responsibility, licensing requirements, and long, irregular hours.

3. Power Plant Operator

Average Salary: $85,000 – $120,000

Training: On-the-job training, technical school, licensing exams

Operators control and maintain the machinery that generates electricity. It’s a high-stakes job that often involves rotating shifts, technical troubleshooting, and monitoring systems for efficiency and safety.

Why it Pays: Energy is essential, and the risk level and technical knowledge needed drive up compensation.

4. Construction Manager (Experienced Worker to Manager Path)

Average Salary: $95,000 – $135,000

Training: Work experience + certifications (e.g., OSHA, PMP)

Many start as laborers or tradesmen and work their way up. With strong leadership, budgeting, and project management skills, you can become a general contractor or site manager — roles that often come with lucrative salaries.

Why it Pays: Leadership, scale of projects, and responsibility for deadlines and safety.

5. Radiation Therapist

Average Salary: $85,000 – $115,000

Training: Associate degree or hospital-based certification program

Working in healthcare but not requiring a bachelor's, radiation therapists operate machines that deliver radiation treatments to cancer patients. The job is specialized, with emotional and physical demands.

Why it Pays: Healthcare roles with technical specialization often command high pay and stability.

6. Locomotive Engineer

Average Salary: $80,000 – $120,000

Training: On-the-job training + certification by the Federal Railroad Administration

Train engineers drive freight or passenger trains, monitor instruments, and ensure rail safety. Long shifts and travel are part of the deal, but it’s a stable, union-protected job with good benefits.

Why it Pays: Logistics demand, public safety, and responsibility for expensive cargo or passengers.

7. HVAC Technician (With Specialization)

Average Salary: $50,000 – $100,000+

Training: Trade school + certifications (EPA, NATE)

HVAC techs who specialize in commercial systems, refrigeration, or high-end residential service can bring in six figures, especially in cities. Self-employed HVAC contractors also earn more.

Why it Pays: Seasonal urgency, technical skill, and strong demand in both residential and commercial markets.

8. Police Officer or Detective

Average Salary: $60,000 – $100,000+ (with overtime and promotion)

Training: Police academy + on-the-job training

While not traditionally viewed as blue-collar, law enforcement falls under skilled labor and doesn’t require a degree. Detectives or specialized unit officers often surpass six figures, especially in major cities.

Why it Pays: Overtime, hazardous conditions, and union protection.

9. Oil and Gas Field Technician

Average Salary: $70,000 – $130,000

Training: On-the-job training or vocational programs

Jobs in the oilfields or offshore rigs include working long shifts in extreme conditions, but the compensation is significant. Roles include drill operators, rig workers, and pipeline technicians.

Why it Pays: Hazardous environments, remote locations, and energy sector demand.

10. Plumber (Master Plumber or Business Owner)

Average Salary: $60,000 – $120,000+

Training: Apprenticeship + licensing

Plumbers are always in demand. Those who achieve master plumber status or run their own businesses can easily earn six figures, particularly in metro areas or during emergency call-outs.

Why it Pays: Urgent demand, physical labor, technical skill, and licensing requirements.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need a bachelor’s degree to build a thriving, financially rewarding career. Many of these blue-collar roles offer the added benefits of hands-on work, independence, and the opportunity to grow into business ownership or management. In fact, as tradespeople retire and fewer young people enter the field, demand (and wages) are only expected to rise.

So whether you’re just entering the workforce, making a career shift, or exploring options outside academia, these paths prove that high income is well within reach — no degree required.