High Paying jobs in Washington State without a Degree: Washington State has built a reputation for innovation, strong labor protections, and some of the highest wages in the country. While tech giants and research universities often grab headlines, a four-year degree is not the only path to a well-paid career here. Across industries like transportation, construction, utilities, healthcare support, and manufacturing, thousands of Washington residents earn solid incomes every year without ever setting foot in a college lecture hall.
From union-backed trades to performance-based roles, Washington’s economy rewards skill, reliability, and experience just as much as formal education. If you’re willing to train, certify, or apprentice, the earning potential can be surprisingly high — often crossing $70,000 or even $100,000 annually.
In this guide, we’ll explore the High Paying jobs in Washington State without a Degree, what they pay, how to qualify, and why these roles continue to grow across the state.
Key Takeaways
- Washington offers multiple careers paying $60,000–$100,000+ annually without a college degree
- Skilled trades and transportation roles dominate the highest-paying options
- Many jobs rely on certifications, apprenticeships, or on-the-job training
- Union membership significantly boosts wages and benefits in Washington USA.
- Experience and licensing often matter more than formal education
Why High Paying jobs in Washington State without a Degree
High Paying jobs in Washington State without a Degree consistently ranks among the best states for workers due to its strong minimum wage laws, overtime protections, and union presence. The absence of a state income tax also means workers take home more of what they earn.
Industries like aerospace, shipping, construction, utilities, and healthcare logistics are deeply rooted here. These fields value hands-on expertise, safety training, and reliability over academic credentials.
Another major advantage is Washington’s extensive apprenticeship system, which allows workers to earn while learning — avoiding student debt while building long-term careers.
Commercial Truck Driver (CDL)
Average Salary: $65,000–$95,000
Top Earners: $110,000+
Education Required: CDL license
Commercial truck driving is one of the fastest ways to earn a high income without a degree in Washington. With major ports in Seattle and Tacoma, freight demand remains steady year-round.
Drivers hauling fuel, oversized loads, or long-haul routes command premium pay. Many employers offer paid CDL training, signing bonuses, and union benefits.
Why it pays well:
- Long hours and responsibility
- Specialized endorsements increase income
- Constant demand for experienced drivers
Elevator Installer and Repair Technician
Average Salary: $90,000–$120,000
Education Required: Apprenticeship
This is one of the High Paying jobs in Washington State without a Degree. Elevator technicians install, repair, and maintain elevators, escalators, and lifts in commercial buildings.
The work is technical and safety-critical, which is why unions offer structured apprenticeships lasting four to five years — with pay increases at every stage.
Perks of the role:
- Excellent union wages
- Strong job security
- Paid training from day one
Electrician
Average Salary: $70,000–$105,000
Education Required: Apprenticeship + license
Electricians are in constant demand across residential, commercial, and industrial projects in Washington. From Seattle’s tech campuses to renewable energy installations, skilled electricians remain essential.
Licensed journeyman electricians earn top wages, especially those specializing in industrial systems or high-voltage work.
What boosts pay:
- Union affiliation
- Overtime opportunities
- Specialized certifications
Construction Manager (Experience-Based)
Average Salary: $75,000–$110,000
Education Required: None (experience-based)
Many construction managers start as laborers, carpenters, or equipment operators. With years of experience and leadership skills, they move into supervisory roles overseeing projects, crews, and budgets.
Washington’s booming construction market — especially in Seattle, Bellevue, and Spokane — creates consistent demand for experienced managers.
Why this role works without a degree:
- Experience outweighs formal education
- Promotions come from proven results
- High responsibility equals higher pay
Power Plant Operator
Average Salary: $80,000–$115,000
Education Required: Certification + training
Power plant operators control and monitor equipment that generates electricity. Washington’s hydroelectric infrastructure makes this a particularly strong career path in the state.
Operators undergo technical training and certifications, but no college degree is required. Shift work and high responsibility drive wages upward.
Plumber
Average Salary: $70,000–$100,000
Education Required: Apprenticeship + license
Licensed plumbers earn excellent money in Washington, especially in urban areas where construction and infrastructure upgrades never slow down.
From commercial buildings to municipal water systems, plumbing skills remain recession-resistant and transferable across the state.
High-earning niches include:
- Commercial plumbing
- Emergency repair services
- Union construction projects
HVAC Technician
Average Salary: $65,000–$95,000
Education Required: Certification
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning technicians are essential in both residential and commercial settings. With Washington’s growing population and climate demands, HVAC services stay in constant demand.
Specializing in large systems or industrial facilities significantly raises earning potential.
Aircraft Maintenance Technician
Average Salary: $75,000–$110,000
Education Required: FAA certification
Thanks to Boeing and a massive aerospace presence, Washington offers some of the best aircraft maintenance jobs in the country.
Technicians inspect, repair, and maintain aircraft systems. FAA certification is required, but a degree is not.
Police Officer
Average Salary: $70,000–$100,000
Education Required: Academy training
Many police departments in High Paying jobs in Washington State without a Degree. Recruits attend a law enforcement academy and receive extensive training.
Overtime, special assignments, and promotions quickly raise income levels.
Real Estate Agent
Average Salary: $60,000–$120,000+
Education Required: Licensing
Real estate agents in Washington can earn high incomes based on commission alone. Success depends on market knowledge, networking, and persistence — not formal education.
Seattle and surrounding metro areas offer especially strong earning potential.
Union Benefits: The Hidden Income Booster
One major reason no-degree jobs pay so well in Washington is union representation. Union workers often receive:
- Higher hourly wages
- Overtime pay
- Healthcare coverage
- Pension plans
- Job security
For many workers, union membership adds tens of thousands of dollars in lifetime earnings.
Skills That Increase Pay Without a Degree
If you want to maximize income without college, focus on:
- Safety certifications
- Equipment operation
- Leadership experience
- Licensing and endorsements
- Reliability and attendance
Washington employers consistently reward workers who show up, work safely, and deliver results.
Final Thoughts
A college degree is no longer the gatekeeper to financial stability in Washington State. With the right training, certifications, and work ethic, you can build a high-paying, long-term career — often faster and with less debt than traditional academic paths.
Washington’s economy values skill over theory, experience over credentials, and performance over paper qualifications. If you’re ready to learn and work, the opportunities are already here.
FAQs
What is the highest paying job in Washington without a degree?
Elevator installers and repair technicians consistently rank at the top, with salaries often exceeding $100,000 annually.
Can I earn six figures without college in Washington?
Yes. Skilled trades, aircraft maintenance, power plant operations, and long-haul trucking regularly cross six-figure earnings.
Do apprenticeships pay while training?
Yes. Most apprenticeships in Washington are paid and include scheduled wage increases.
Are union jobs better for no-degree workers?
In most cases, yes. Union jobs offer higher wages, benefits, and long-term stability.
How long does it take to start earning well?
Some roles, like CDL driving or HVAC, can reach strong income levels within one to two years of training.