What Are High-Salary Jobs Without a Degree?
In Canada, a university degree is often seen as the golden ticket to a well-paying career. However, many high-paying jobs don’t require a degree. Instead, they rely on specialized skills, certifications, apprenticeships, or experience. These roles exist across various industries, from trades and technology to healthcare and sales, offering individuals excellent earning potential without the need for a four-year college education.
The key to landing these jobs is developing in-demand skills, gaining relevant certifications, and building work experience. Many of these careers also provide pathways for advancement, meaning workers can increase their earnings over time with additional training or hands-on experience.
Key Characteristics of High-Salary Jobs Without a Degree in Canada
Several factors make a job high-paying and accessible without a degree. Here are some key characteristics:
- Skill-Based Work – Jobs in trades, technology, and sales often require specific skill sets rather than a formal education.
- Certification & Licensing – Many high-paying jobs require certifications or apprenticeships instead of a degree. For example, electricians and plumbers must be licensed.
- Experience-Driven Roles – Some roles prioritize experience over education, such as sales representatives, real estate agents, and entrepreneurs.
- Physical or Technical Expertise – Many skilled trade jobs, IT roles, and healthcare support positions offer great salaries without needing a degree.
- Unionized Positions – Jobs in unions, such as construction and transportation, tend to offer higher salaries and benefits even for non-degree holders.
High-Salary Job Opportunities Without a Degree in Canada
There are many industries in Canada where high-paying jobs are available for individuals without a traditional university degree. Some of the most lucrative options include skilled trades, healthcare support, information technology, and sales.
Best Industries for High-Paying Jobs Without a Degree
- Skilled Trades & Construction – Electricians, plumbers, and carpenters are in high demand.
- Technology & IT – Coding, cybersecurity, and networking offer high salaries with certifications.
- Transportation & Logistics – Truck drivers, air traffic controllers, and crane operators are well-paid.
- Sales & Real Estate – Commission-based roles like real estate agents and insurance brokers can yield high earnings.
- Healthcare Support Roles – Dental hygienists and paramedics earn solid salaries without needing a full degree.
- Oil & Gas Industry – Many high-paying roles in the energy sector do not require a university education.
- Entrepreneurship & Self-Employment – Business owners and freelancers can earn substantial incomes without formal education.
Top High-Salary Jobs Without a Degree in Canada
Below are some of the highest-paying jobs in Canada that do not require a degree, along with their estimated salary ranges:
1. Air Traffic Controller
- Salary: $100,000 – $150,000
- Education Needed: Training through NAV Canada and certification
- Why It Pays Well: High responsibility in managing air traffic safety.
2. Construction Manager
- Salary: $80,000 – $120,000
- Education Needed: Apprenticeship, trade experience, or on-the-job training
- Why It Pays Well: Managing projects and overseeing workers increases earning potential.
3. Elevator Mechanic
- Salary: $70,000 – $120,000
- Education Needed: Apprenticeship and certification
- Why It Pays Well: Requires specialized skills and knowledge.
4. Commercial Pilot
- Salary: $80,000 – $150,000
- Education Needed: Flight school and licensing
- Why It Pays Well: Skilled profession with safety responsibilities.
5. Real Estate Agent
- Salary: $50,000 – $200,000 (commission-based)
- Education Needed: Real estate license
- Why It Pays Well: Commission-based earnings with high potential.
6. Powerline Technician
- Salary: $80,000 – $130,000
- Education Needed: Apprenticeship and certification
- Why It Pays Well: Physically demanding but in high demand.
7. Dental Hygienist
- Salary: $70,000 – $100,000
- Education Needed: Diploma or certificate in dental hygiene
- Why It Pays Well: High demand in the healthcare industry.
8. Plumber
- Salary: $60,000 – $100,000
- Education Needed: Apprenticeship and licensing
- Why It Pays Well: Essential trade with strong demand.
9. Web Developer
- Salary: $60,000 – $120,000
- Education Needed: Coding bootcamps, certifications
- Why It Pays Well: High demand in tech with remote work potential.
10. Oil & Gas Driller
- Salary: $80,000 – $150,000
- Education Needed: On-the-job training and safety certifications
- Why It Pays Well: Harsh working conditions and specialized skills.
Companies Known for High-Salary Jobs Without a Degree in Canada
Many companies in Canada hire skilled workers without requiring a degree. Some of the top employers include:
- NAV Canada – Air traffic controllers
- CN Rail & CP Rail – Railway workers and technicians
- Bell & Rogers Communications – Technicians and sales representatives
- PCL Construction & EllisDon – Construction managers and tradespeople
- WestJet & Air Canada – Pilots and aviation roles
- Fortis & Hydro One – Powerline technicians
- Government of Canada – Various trades and law enforcement roles
- TD Bank & RBC – Financial services and sales roles without degree requirements
- Amazon & FedEx – Logistics and supply chain management jobs
- Shopify & other tech startups – Web developers and IT professionals
How to Find High-Paying Jobs Without Experience
Finding a high-paying job without a degree or prior experience requires a strategic approach. Here are some steps to help:
1. Get Certified
Many high-paying roles require certification rather than a degree. Examples include:
- Air Traffic Control Training (NAV Canada)
- Real Estate Licensing (Provincial Real Estate Boards)
- Trade Certifications (Plumbing, Electrical, HVAC, etc.)
- IT Certifications (CompTIA, Google IT Support, AWS, etc.)
2. Apply for Apprenticeships
Skilled trades offer paid apprenticeships where workers earn while they learn.
3. Leverage Online Courses & Bootcamps
Many IT roles (web development, cybersecurity) can be accessed through online learning platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and coding bootcamps.
4. Network & Use Job Boards
- LinkedIn & Indeed for job opportunities
- Government Job Portals for public sector jobs
- Trade Associations for skilled labor openings
5. Gain Experience Through Internships or Side Projects
If you want to get into tech or sales, working on small projects, freelancing, or doing an internship can help build your resume.
Conclusion
A high-paying career in Canada does not require a university degree—but it does require skills, experience, and determination. Industries such as trades, IT, sales, logistics, and healthcare provide excellent earning potential with alternative education paths like apprenticeships, certifications, and hands-on training. By focusing on skill development and leveraging industry demand, job seekers can secure financially rewarding careers without the burden of a traditional degree.
