If you’re a new high school graduate trying career paths, you might be wondering which are the best for you. Many people assume that the only way to find a good job is by getting a four-year degree, but that’s not always the case. However, there are many great career paths that don’t require a four-year degree. These can be good options if you’re not sure what you want to do with your life and want to explore your passions! Below are some of the best jobs to try and consider that don’t require a four-year degree!
Mechanic
Whether you’re passionate about cars or want to work with your hands, a career as a mechanic can be a great option for you! There are many opportunities to learn and grow in this field, and you don’t need a four-year degree to get started. There are plenty of trade schools and apprenticeships that can teach you the skills you need to succeed. You can also specialize in truck repairs and exotic cars.
It’s important to know, when trying career paths in the auto industry, that many positions will require some form of certification. ASE and other manufacturer’s certifications are industry-recognized standards that can help you find a job and advance in your career.
Chef
Have you always loved cooking? Or maybe you watch cooking shows and dream of being a chef one day. Well, you’re in luck! When trying career paths that involve food, consider becoming a chef. It’s a great way to use your creativity and passion for food to create amazing dishes! You don’t need a four-year degree to become a chef, but you will need some formal training. There are many culinary schools that can teach you the skills you need to succeed.
In addition to culinary school, another option is to get a job in a kitchen and work your way up. Many chefs start out as prep cooks or line cooks before eventually becoming head chefs. This can be a great way to gain experience and learn the ropes of the kitchen.
Entrepreneur
One of the best things about being an entrepreneur is that you’re in charge of your own career, and there are virtually endless possibilities when you’re trying career paths as an entrepreneur. Consider what skills you have and what you’re passionate about, and you can start your own business! You don’t need a four-year degree to be an entrepreneur, but you will need some business skills. There are many resources, such as the Small Business Administration, that can help you get started.
You should also consider networking with other entrepreneurs. For instance, if you’re interested in starting a food truck business, you can network with other food truck owners to learn about the industry. There are also many online resources, such as podcasts and blog posts, that can provide helpful information and advice.
Freelance Writer
If you’re a good writer, you might consider freelance writing as a career option. It’s one of the best options for students and amateur writers trying career paths. You can work from anywhere in the world and set your own hours. All you need is a laptop and an internet connection!
There are many different types of writing you can do as a freelancer. For instance, you can write blog posts, articles, web content, or even books. You can also specialize in a certain type of writing, such as technical writing or copywriting.
To get started, you can create a portfolio of your work and submit it to various publications. You can also join a freelance marketplace to find clients.
Teacher
If you love working with children and want to make a difference in their lives, consider becoming a teacher! There are many different types of teaching positions that don’t require four-year degrees. For instance, if you’re good at teaching piano or another musical instrument, you can become a music teacher. There are also many opportunities to teach English as a second language.
Of course, there are also many traditional teaching positions that don’t require four-year degrees, such as substitute teaching and teaching assistant positions. You can also get certified to teach in some states without a four-year degree.
To become a teacher, you will need to complete some training. Depending on the type of teaching position you’re interested in, you might need to get a certification or license. You can also find many resources online, such as lesson plans and teaching materials.
Salesperson
One of the great things about being a salesperson when trying career paths is that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. You can be successful in sales regardless of your education level. In fact, many sales jobs don’t even require a four-year degree!
Of course, if you’re interested in becoming a salesperson, you will need to have some skills. For instance, you should be good at communicating with people, be persuasive, and be able to close deals. You should also be familiar with the product or service you’re selling.
If you’re not sure where to start, consider working for a company in sales. This will give you some experience and training. You can also find many resources online, such as sales courses and books and sales professionals, that can teach you the best approach for landing your biggest clients.
Pavement Polisher
Did you know there’s an entire industry dedicated to making concrete look good? It’s true! And you don’t need a four-year degree to get started in this field.
If you’re interested in becoming a concrete polisher, you will need to have some experience working with concrete. You should also be familiar with the different types of polishing equipment and techniques.
To get started, you can try to apprentice and work with other concrete contractors. Many people love this industry due to its high demand, versatility, and ability to network with builders. Think about how often you see concrete – it’s everywhere and the demand for those who can make it look good is always high!
Construction Worker
You don’t need a four-year degree to work in construction. In fact, many jobs in construction only require on-the-job training. And, with the ever-growing popularity of DIY projects, there is an increasing demand for home construction workers.
If you’re interested in becoming a construction worker, you will need to be physically fit and able to lift heavy objects. You should also be familiar with the different types of construction equipment and techniques.
You will first need to be an apprentice, which requires on-the-job training. After you have some experience, you can then get certified as a journeyman construction worker. Many people in this field enjoy the satisfaction of seeing a project come to life and the camaraderie among workers.
Carpenter
As a carpenter, you will use your skills to build or repair structures made of wood. This can include everything from framing houses to building stairs and cabinets.
While you won’t need a four-year degree to become a carpenter. However, you will need to have some experience working with wood and power tools. You should also be familiar with the different types of carpentry techniques and equipment.
It’s always a good idea when trying career paths to consider which type of carpentry best suits your interests. For instance, if you want to be a cabinet builder, consider working with a cabinet refacing or kitchen remodeling company to gain valuable skills.
Bail Bonds Agent
When trying career paths, consider a career as a bailbondsman! Famous for being a ‘bounty hunter’, a bailbondsman helps to bring fugitives who have skipped bail back to justice.
To become a bailbondsman, you will need to be licensed in the state where you wish to practice. You should also be familiar with the different types of bail bonds and how they work.
While you don’t need a four-year degree to become a bailbondsman, you will need to have some experience working in the legal system. You should also be familiar with the different types of tracking devices and software used to locate fugitives.
Consider taking some courses in criminal justice or law enforcement if you’re interested in becoming a bailbondsman. In addition, don’t forget to hire an attorney to help you in case you’re facing legal issues.
Arborist
From tree maintenance to tree removal, arborists help to keep our trees healthy and looking their best. Fortunately, you don’t need a four-year degree in botany to become an arborist, but you will need to have some experience working with trees. A great way to start off your career as an arborist is to first work in landscaping. For instance, you can work as a landscaper, tree trimmer, or tree planter.
After you have some experience working with trees, you can then get certified as an arborist. Many people in this field enjoy the satisfaction of helping to maintain our urban forests.
While you don’t need a four-year degree to become an arborist, don’t forget that there are many deadly diseases that can spread between trees and plants and negatively impact the environment. It’s critical to know the best sanitation practices to keep our trees healthy.
Hairstylist
Do you have a passion for hair? If so, then a career as a hairstylist may be perfect for you! As a hair stylist, you will use your creative skills to style your client’s hair. This can include everything from cutting and coloring hair to doing perms and extensions! When trying career paths that involve beauty, consider becoming a hairstylist!
To become a hairstylist, you will need to complete a cosmetology program. This can either be done at a vocational school or community college. After you have completed your training, you will then need to get licensed in the state where you wish to practice.
After you complete your program, you can work on your own and gain clients through friends and family, slowly building up your portfolio. Most hairstylists start off working in salons, but eventually, they open their own businesses.
Pool Services Contactor
Whether you want to be an expert in pool building or pool maintenance, a career as a pool contractor may be perfect for you! As a pool contractor, you will be responsible for the construction and maintenance of pools. This can include everything from new pool construction to pool renovations.
If you’re interested in becoming a pool contractor, consider taking some classes in business and marketing. If you love the idea of creating something from scratch and have a passion for summer fun.
Sewer Contractor
As a well driller and sewer worker, you will be responsible for the installation and maintenance of sewer systems. This can include both new construction and repairs. In addition, you may also be responsible for the installation of septic tanks.
Working as a sewer worker is one of the best jobs when trying career paths since it doesn’t require a four-year degree. However, you will need to have some experience working with plumbing. In addition, you should be familiar with the different types of sewer systems and how they work.
If you’re interested in becoming a sewer worker, consider taking some courses in plumbing or water treatment. You can also get certified as a plumber, which will help you get hired and gain valuable experience. You can then become a city worker in public works and play a vital roll in keeping your city’s water supply clean!
Paving Contractor
Paving contractors are some of the most essential workers in our society. After all, they are responsible for the construction and maintenance of our roads! Paving contractors can work on everything from new construction to repairs.
Working as a paving contractor is one of the best jobs when trying career paths that don’t require a four-year degree. If you love civil engineering, want to work outdoors, and don’t mind getting your hands dirty, then this may be the perfect job for you!
In order to become a paving contractor, you will need to have some experience working with heavy machinery. In addition, you should be familiar with the different types of pavement and how they are made. You can get training through a vocational school or work as an apprentice, so get started as soon as you can to start your contractor journey.
Consider these career paths the next time you’re looking for a new job! They don’t require a four-year degree and can be very rewarding. With the right training, you can be on your way to a great new career!