You don’t need a college degree to land a great job — or to build a meaningful, well-paying career. In fact, as companies become more skill-focused and inclusive, many are reconsidering degree requirements altogether.
Whether you’re a recent high school graduate, changing careers, or returning to the workforce, there are plenty of entry-level jobs that offer good pay, growth opportunities, and stability — no degree required.
Here are some of the top entry-level jobs in 2025 you can get without a four-year college degree, plus tips on how to break into them.
🧑💻 1. IT Support Specialist
What they do: Help individuals and companies troubleshoot computer, network, and software issues.
Why it’s in demand: Every business relies on technology — and when it breaks, they need fast, skilled help.
Skills needed:
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Basic networking and hardware knowledge
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Familiarity with operating systems (Windows, Mac, Linux)
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Strong problem-solving and communication
How to get started:
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Earn a CompTIA A+ certification or Google IT Support Certificate
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Practice hands-on with your own devices or through virtual labs
💰 Average salary: $50,000+
📈 Career path: IT technician → Systems admin → Network engineer
🛠️ 2. HVAC Technician
What they do: Install and repair heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in homes and businesses.
Why it’s in demand: HVAC is essential, especially with growing focus on energy efficiency and smart homes.
Skills needed:
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Mechanical aptitude
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Safety awareness
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Basic electrical knowledge
How to get started:
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Enroll in a trade school or apprenticeship program (often paid)
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Get licensed/certified in your state
💰 Average salary: $48,000–$65,000
🏗️ Career path: Technician → Project manager → Business owner
🧑🍳 3. Food Service Manager (Work Your Way Up)
What they do: Oversee restaurant operations, staff, customer service, and inventory.
Why it’s in demand: Fast-growing food chains and hospitality brands reward experience and leadership, not just degrees.
Skills needed:
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Team management
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Time and conflict resolution
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Customer service
How to get started:
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Start as a line cook, barista, or server
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Learn operations, take on leadership tasks, and apply internally for promotions
💰 Average salary: $55,000+ with experience
🚀 Career path: Supervisor → Assistant manager → General manager
🧑🎨 4. Graphic Designer (Freelance or In-House)
What they do: Create visual content for marketing, branding, web, and print.
Why it’s in demand: Businesses need great design — and portfolios speak louder than degrees.
Skills needed:
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Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign)
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Canva or Figma for digital design
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Creativity and attention to detail
How to get started:
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Take online courses (e.g., Coursera, Skillshare)
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Build a portfolio with mock projects or freelance gigs
💰 Freelance rate: $25–$60/hr
🎨 Career path: Designer → Art director → Creative lead
🚚 5. Delivery Driver (Logistics & E-Commerce)
What they do: Transport goods to homes and businesses using vans, trucks, or bikes.
Why it’s in demand: E-commerce is booming, and last-mile delivery is critical.
Skills needed:
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Clean driving record
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Time management and route planning
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Customer service
How to get started:
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Apply to companies like Amazon, FedEx, UPS, DoorDash, or local courier services
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May require a commercial driver’s license (CDL) for larger vehicles
💰 Average salary: $40,000–$65,000+
🚛 Career path: Driver → Route supervisor → Fleet manager
👨🔧 6. Apprentice Electrician
What they do: Assist licensed electricians with wiring, installations, and maintenance.
Why it’s in demand: Skilled trades are experiencing labor shortages and high job security.
Skills needed:
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Basic math and mechanical ability
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Willingness to learn and follow safety codes
How to get started:
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Join a paid apprenticeship program (through a union or trade school)
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Work toward becoming a licensed journeyman
💰 Average salary: $50,000+ (more with licensing)
⚡ Career path: Apprentice → Journeyman → Master electrician
🌐 7. Digital Marketing Assistant
What they do: Help with online campaigns, content creation, social media, and SEO.
Why it’s in demand: Businesses want to grow online — and entry-level marketers are key to scaling efforts.
Skills needed:
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Social media knowledge (Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn)
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Basic SEO, email marketing, and analytics tools (Google Analytics, Mailchimp)
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Strong writing skills
How to get started:
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Take free/low-cost digital marketing courses (Google, HubSpot, Coursera)
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Volunteer or freelance to build experience
💰 Average salary: $45,000+
📈 Career path: Specialist → Manager → Marketing strategist
🧑🔧 8. Maintenance Technician
What they do: Perform repairs and upkeep in buildings, apartments, hotels, or factories.
Why it’s in demand: As infrastructure ages and facilities modernize, reliable maintenance workers are critical.
Skills needed:
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Basic plumbing, carpentry, and electrical
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Troubleshooting and preventative care
How to get started:
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Apply to maintenance roles with on-the-job training
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Learn through hands-on experience or trade programs
💰 Average salary: $45,000–$60,000
🛠️ Career path: Tech → Facilities supervisor → Operations manager
🧾 Final Thought
You don’t need a college degree to launch a successful career — but you do need curiosity, work ethic, and the willingness to keep learning.
With the rise of online certifications, apprenticeships, and employer-sponsored training, the barrier to entry in many high-paying fields is lower than ever.
Focus on building skills, not just collecting credentials — and you’ll find doors opening that once seemed closed.
