Economic experts continue to say that there are signs that the economy is recovering from the recession that began in late 2008 and peaked in the third quarter of 2009. However, the national unemployment rate is over 8 percent, which is still higher than normal. While many people have gone back to school to increase their skill set, that is not an option for many people. In this article, I have identified five occupations that pay as much as entry-level, MBA positions, but do not require a degree!
Air traffic controller – $140,000
For a person who travels as often as I do, this position is as important as my physician. An air traffic controller monitors flights arriving and departing from airports to alleviate accidents.
Real estate broker – $80,000
Prior to the real estate bubble bursting in 2008, the salary for this occupation was closer to $100,000. With the number of foreclosed homes on the market, the business model admittedly has changed, but the industry is still very lucrative.
Cable supervisor – $77,000
I’m sure many of you have seen the little multicolored flags that say “Do Not Dig In This Area” either near your street or, sometimes, even in your yard. The people who supervise the workers who install and repair cables are compensated well, due to the exorbitant cost involved if someone mistakenly cuts one of these lines.
Chemical plant supervisor – $74,000
There are numerous chemical plants located across the U.S. The companies that operate these plants employ supervisors who make sure each department that is responsible for making chemical products follows the stringent guidelines imposed by various monitoring organizations, such as the Environmental Protection Agency.
Home health aides supervisor – $63,000
As medical care improves and Americans continue to become more health conscientious, the life expectancy of seniors continues to rise. This creates a greater demand for home healthcare workers.
I am not saying do not increase your skill set. All of these occupations require a certain level of training, certificates that must be attained, multiple tests that one has to pass and continuing education that is ongoing. On the other hand, most of the designations necessary to begin your career in these occupations can be acquired through 12 to 18-month programs and are viable options to a good-paying job, in the short term.
–al weems
