As recent graduates face the challenges of the changing job market, many good jobs with good pay do not require a traditional four-year degree. Many of these jobs offer hourly rates of $30 or better, and they prioritize skills, certificates, and real-life experience over formal education. These guides cover examples of what you can do for a living to earn 30 dollars an hour (no degree) along with potential growth and responsibilities in that role.

Freelance Web Developer

There has been a growing demand for web developers in this digital age. Freelance web developers create and manage websites, ensuring they work properly and appear visually attractive. You don’t need a degree, but you do need to know coding languages such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. If you have a stronger portfolio, you could charge $30+ per hour.

Key Steps:

1. You can take a boot camp or online courses to learn coding languages.
2. Create a portfolio of the projects you have developed.
3. Establish connections with prospective customers via networks such as Upwork or Fiverr.

1. Real Estate Agent

Real estate agents help clients in various stages of buying, selling, or renting out properties. Earnings are commission-based, and successful agents can earn significant sums. No formal degree is required; however, those interested must obtain a real estate license.

Key Steps:

1. Finish pre-licensing coursework.
2. Take the state licensing examination.
3. Get experience and mentorship at a brokerage.

2 . Personal Trainer

Personal trainers help clients reach their fitness goals with personalized workout programs. While you don’t need a degree, certifications from recognized organizations increase credibility and can help you make $30/hour or more.

Key Steps:

1. Get certified through organizations such as ACE or NASM
2. Get some experience by working at gyms or doing private sessions.

Network and market yourself to build a client base.

3. Sales Representative

However, some sales representatives sell all kinds of products or services across myriad industries. Excellent communication and persuasive skills are essential. Many do base + commission, meaning you can make over $30 an hour.

Key Steps:

1. Get trained in sales workshops or get a mentor.
2. These entry-level positions are in industries ranging from pharmaceuticals to technology.
3. Consistently attaining or exceeding quota will drive your earnings.
4. Commercial Truck Driver

Commercial trucker drivers deliver merchandise across the country. You need a commercial driver’s license (CDL), but you don’t need a college degree. Most drivers earn hourly wages of $30 or more, more so with experience.

Key Steps:

• Visit professional schools to learn the skills.
• Get a CDL by taking a written and practical test.
• Take experience with renowned trucking companies

4. Electrician

Electricians work inside homes, businesses, factories, and other work environments to install and repair electrical systems. This skill trades commonly require an apprenticeship but not a degree. For experienced electricians, pay is $30/hr and up.

Key Steps:

• Finish an apprenticeship program.
• This likely involves getting any required licenses or certifications specific to your state.
• Attend classes to learn about the latest electrical codes and technologies.

5. Plumber

Plumbers fix and set up pipe networks. They tend to have apprenticeships, too, like electricians. Qualified plumbers tend to charge hourly rates of $30 or greater.

Key Steps:

• Join an apprenticeship program.
• Obtain practical knowledge from licensed plumbers.
• Get licensing per local regulation if needed.

6. HVAC Technician

HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) technicians are responsible for installing and maintaining climate control systems. One of the more common paths is vocational training or apprenticeships. Veteran technicians often make $30 an hour and more.

Key Steps:

• What are the steps to become a Ford mechanic?
• Apprentice to get some experience before work.
• Get certified in EPA Section 608, etc.

7. Entrepreneur

You can also set your rates as a business owner. Any business, from retail to digital marketing and beyond, has the potential to yield $30 or more per hour, depending on how successful the business model is.

Key Steps:

1. Detect a gap in the market or love something.
2. Now it is time to create a complete business plan.
3. Secure funding and resources.
4. Then launch and promote your business.

8. Digital Marketing Specialist

Digital marketing specialists handle the online presence and campaigns of the businesses. SEO, content creation, and social media skills can lead to lucrative freelance gigs for $30+/hr.

Key Steps:

1. Online degrees can help you learn digital marketing skills.
2. A portfolio to display successful campaigns.
3. Work with businesses that require digital marketing services.
4. Photographer or Videographer

Images and videos for various occasions and purposes are captured by professional photographers and videographers. If they have a good portfolio and market themselves well, they can command $30/hr or more.

Key Steps:

• Invest in quality equipment.
• Find a specialty, wedding catering, or corporate catering.

For those of you who have been following me on Twitter, you probably saw my last tweet about a conference I was working on this fall.