Top-Paying Trade Jobs You Can Get Without a Degree (And How Auto Loan Pre-Approval Fits In!)

Okay, let’s be honest: not everyone wants to go to college. And that’s totally fine. College isn’t for everybody. The crazy tuition, the long years, and all the pressure to figure life out? Yeah… not the vibe for everyone.

But here’s the good news: you don’t need a degree to make good money. Seriously. Some of the highest-paying trade jobs out there don’t care if you’ve got a fancy diploma. What they care about is skill, hustle, and real-life experience. And if you’re smart with your money, like learning about stuff like auto loan pre-approval, you can get ahead way faster than some people who spent four years in a classroom.

So buckle up! We’re gonna talk about top trade jobs you can land without a degree and sprinkle in some smart financial moves like getting pre-approved for a car loan—because what’s the point of getting a dope job if you can’t afford to drive to it?

What Even Is a “Trade Job”?

Before we dive into the list, let’s clear something up. A trade job is basically any skilled job that requires special training, but not necessarily a four-year college degree. Most of the time, you go to a trade school, do an apprenticeship, or get some certifications.

These are jobs where you’re doing something — working with your hands, fixing stuff, building things, or operating machines. Think: electricians, welders, plumbers, mechanics, etc.

And here’s the kicker: a lot of them pay big bucks. Some even make over $100K a year. Yup, no cap.

Highest Paying Trade Jobs (No Degree Needed)

Here’s the list you’ve been waiting for. These jobs don’t need a bachelor’s degree, and they still pay serious money.

1. Elevator Installer and Repairer

• Average Salary: $88,000 – $120,000/year

• Training: Apprenticeship (4 years)

• Why It Pays: You’re literally dealing with the things that lift people up and down 100-floor buildings. High skill, high risk, high reward.

2. Commercial Pilot (No Degree Required!)

• Average Salary: $90,000 – $150,000/year

• Training: Flight school, FAA certification

• Why It Pays: You’re flying planes. Enough said. While some airline jobs want degrees, many commercial gigs don’t—like flying cargo, small jets, crop dusters, etc.

3. Radiation Therapist

• Average Salary: $85,000 – $100,000/year

• Training: Certification program (~2 years)

• Why It Pays: You’re helping treat cancer patients with radiation machines. It’s meaningful and well-paying.

4. Electrician

• Average Salary: $50,000 – $90,000/year

• Training: Apprenticeship + license

• Why It Pays: Electricity is everywhere. And when it breaks, someone’s gotta fix it. That someone could be you.

5. Plumber

• Average Salary: $50,000 – $100,000/year

• Training: Apprenticeship

• Why It Pays: When pipes explode, people will pay anything to get their water running again.

6. HVAC Technician

• Average Salary: $45,000 – $80,000/year

• Training: 6-month to 2-year program

• Why It Pays: Heating and cooling systems are in every building. You fix them = you get paid.

7. Dental Hygienist

• Average Salary: $70,000 – $100,000/year

• Training: Associate’s degree or certification

• Why It Pays: You clean teeth and help spot oral issues early. It’s a chill but rewarding career.

8. Wind Turbine Technician

• Average Salary: $55,000 – $100,000/year

• Training: Certification (~1 year)

• Why It Pays: Renewable energy is the future. These jobs are growing fast, and pay’s rising too.

9. Welders (Especially Underwater!)

• Average Salary: $50,000 – $100,000/year

• Training: Welding school + certification

• Why It Pays: Building bridges, ships, skyscrapers—welders hold the world together. Underwater welders? Even more money.

10. Diesel Mechanic

• Average Salary: $45,000 – $75,000/year

• Training: Tech school or apprenticeship

• Why It Pays: Trucks, buses, generators… diesel engines are everywhere, and mechanics who fix them are always in demand.

What’s Auto Loan Pre-Approval & Why Should You Care?

Let’s switch gears for a sec. Imagine this: You finally land that sweet job as an HVAC tech or welder, and now you need a reliable ride to get to job sites.

Here’s where auto loan pre-approval comes in.

So What Is Pre-Approval?

It’s when a bank or lender checks your info (like credit score, income, etc.) and tells you how much money they’re willing to lend you for a car before you even walk into a dealership.

Why Pre-Approval Is Smart

1. Know Your Budget – No guessing. You’ll know exactly how much car you can afford.

2. Avoid Sketchy Dealer Tricks – Some dealers try to sneak in high-interest loans. Pre-approval = power move.

3. Save Money – With a pre-approved interest rate, you can compare and choose the cheapest option.

4. Boost Confidence – You walk in like a boss, already knowing what’s up.

How to Get Pre-Approved for an Auto Loan (Step-by-Step)

Getting pre-approved is way easier than you think.

Step 1: Check Your Credit Score

Most lenders want to see a score above 600. But even if you have bad credit, there are options (just higher rates).

Step 2: Gather Your Info

You’ll need:

• ID

• Proof of income (pay stubs, bank statements)

• Employer info

• Residence details

Step 3: Compare Lenders

Don’t just go with the first one. Look at:

• Banks

• Credit unions

• Online lenders
  Pick the one with the best interest rate and terms.

Step 4: Apply Online or In Person

Fill out the form, submit your docs, and wait for approval. This usually takes a few minutes to a day.

Step 5: Use Your Pre-Approval at the Dealership

Bring your pre-approval letter and negotiate like a pro. You already know your limit and rate.

Real Talk: Trade Jobs + Smart Money Moves = Solid Future

Let’s break this down: if you’re going into a trade, you’ll probably start earning real money faster than someone going the college route.

Now imagine:

• You finish trade school by 20

• Start making $60K a year

• Get pre-approved and buy a good car

• No student debt dragging you down

By the time your college friends graduate at 23 or 24? You’ve already got 3-4 years of experience, savings, and maybe even a paid-off ride.

And if you’re smart about budgeting, investing, and planning ahead? You’re seriously winning.

Table: Trade Jobs vs. College Route (Side-by-Side)

Q&A: Let’s Wrap It Up

Can I Really Make Over $100K Without a Degree?

Yes! Jobs like elevator repair, radiation therapy, and even welding (especially underwater) can hit six figures without a 4-year degree.

Are Trade Jobs Just for Guys?

Nope. Anyone can do trade work. Women are entering trades more than ever—and killing it.

Do I Need a Car for Trade Jobs?

Usually, yes. Many require traveling to job sites. That’s why knowing about auto loan pre-approval can save you big time and help you buy a reliable ride without stress.

Is Trade School Hard?

It’s not easy, but it’s doable. Most programs are shorter than college and super hands-on. If you like working with your hands and learning by doing, it’s a great fit.

What If I Have Bad Credit? Can I Still Get a Car Loan?

Yes, but your interest rate will be higher. Look into lenders that specialize in bad credit auto loans or try improving your score before applying.

Can Trade Jobs Turn Into Businesses?

Absolutely. Tons of plumbers, electricians, and mechanics eventually start their own companies and make even more.

Final Thoughts

College isn’t the only way to success. With the right trade and a solid game plan (like getting auto loan pre-approval when you need a car), you can build a life that’s stable, well-paid, and honestly pretty dope.

So if you’re thinking about your future and wondering if skipping college is okay—it is. Just be smart, work hard, and always be leveling up.

Pro Tip: The world needs more skilled tradespeople. Be the one who shows up, learns fast, and delivers solid work—and you’ll never have to worry about finding a job or affording your next car.