Find a Job You Really Want In
Summary. In 2026, numerous jobs offer competitive pay of $30 an hour or more, including roles like commercial pilot, speech-language pathologist, and game developer. Additionally, there are positions that do not require a degree, such as real estate agents, police officers, and commercial drivers. While many of these roles may not demand a four-year degree, specific certifications or training are typically necessary.
As the cost of living continues to rise, securing a job that pays at least $30 an hour has become increasingly crucial. Remarkably, you can achieve this without necessarily holding a college degree.
This article highlights ten jobs that pay $30 an hour, categorized into five top roles and five positions that don’t require a degree. We will also outline the various qualifications and requirements associated with each job.
Key Takeaways:
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The leading jobs that pay $30 an hour as of 2026 include dental hygienist, occupational therapist, and construction manager.
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Clearly defining your career goals is vital when transitioning to a new job or career path.
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Consider enrolling in additional courses to enhance your skills, acquire new competencies, or meet job qualifications.
5 of the Best Jobs That Pay $30 an Hour
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Average Hourly Wage: $45.39
Average Annual Salary: $94,406
Job Outlook: According to the BLS, commercial pilot jobs are projected to grow by 6% through 2030.Commercial pilots operate airplanes and other aircraft for various purposes, including transportation, emergency response, and aerial photography. Typically, they pursue degrees in aviation, business, or aerospace engineering.
Job requirements: A high school diploma or equivalent is the minimum requirement, and it generally takes two to four years to become a commercial pilot. A valid pilot’s license from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is essential, along with certifications such as Commercial Pilot (CP) and Certified Aviation Manager (CAM).
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Average Hourly Wage: $38.01
Average Annual Salary: $62,340
Job Outlook: Projected to grow by 21% through 2030, according to the BLS.Speech-language pathologists assist individuals with communication and swallowing difficulties, employing various therapeutic methods to enhance their clients’ abilities.
Job requirements: Typically, a master’s degree in communication disorders or related fields is required, along with state licensure. Essential certifications include the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP).
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Average Hourly Wage: $42.52
Average Annual Salary: $88,432
Job Outlook: Expected to grow by 9% through 2030, as noted by the BLS.Dental hygienists play a critical role in oral health, conducting examinations and educating patients about preventive care.
Job requirements: An associate degree in dental hygiene is typically required, with state-specific licensure and certifications such as Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) being necessary.
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Average Hourly Wage: $36.40
Average Annual Salary: $75,707
Job Outlook: Projected to grow by 14% through 2030, according to the BLS.Occupational therapists help patients regain daily living and work skills through therapeutic techniques.
Job requirements: A master’s degree in occupational therapy is required, along with relevant state licensure and certifications such as Occupational Therapist Registered (OTR).
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Average Hourly Rate: $43.75
Average Annual Salary: $91,009
Job Outlook: Game developer jobs are expected to grow by 25% through 2030, according to the BLS.Game developers create and program video games, working with concepts, graphics, and game mechanics to bring innovative ideas to life.
Job requirements: A bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field and two to four years of experience are necessary. Certifications such as Certified Gaming Supervisor (CGS) may enhance earning potential.
Jobs That Pay $30 an Hour That Don’t Require a Degree
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Average Hourly Rate: $44.13
Average Annual Salary: $91,788
Job Outlook: Growth projected at 5% through 2030, according to the BLS.Real estate agents assist clients in buying, selling, or renting properties, requiring a strong understanding of the local market.
Job requirements: A college degree is not mandatory, but most agents obtain certifications such as Certified Real Estate Inspector (CRI).
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Average Hourly Rate: $39.09
Average Annual Salary: $81,313
Job Outlook: Expected growth of 8% through 2030, according to the BLS.Construction managers oversee building projects, coordinating teams and ensuring timely completion of tasks.
Job requirements: A bachelor’s degree is often required, along with several years of relevant experience. Certifications such as Certified Construction Manager (CCM) may be advantageous.
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Average Hourly Rate: N/A
Average Annual Salary: $53,935
Job Outlook: Projected growth of 20% through 2030, according to the BLS.Massage therapists utilize touch to alleviate muscle tension and promote relaxation for their clients.
Job requirements: Completion of a postsecondary program with 500 or more hours of training is necessary, along with required certifications such as Massage Therapy Certification (MT).
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Average Hourly Rate: N/A
Average Annual Salary: $46,852
Job Outlook: Projected growth of 4% through 2030, according to the BLS.Commercial drivers transport goods or passengers, requiring a strong understanding of vehicle operation and maintenance.
Job requirements: A high school diploma or GED is typically required, along with a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and relevant safety certifications.
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Average Hourly Wage: $31.74
Average Annual Salary: $52,638
Job Outlook: Projected to grow by 3% through 2030, according to the BLS.Police officers maintain public safety, conduct traffic enforcement, and respond to emergencies.
Job requirements: Education requirements range from a high school diploma to a college degree, along with completion of a police academy training program.
Tips for Getting a Job That Pays $30 an Hour
Securing a job that pays $30 an hour can significantly enhance your financial stability. Here are some strategies to help you land a high-paying position:
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Identify your career goals. Understanding your career aspirations is crucial when embarking on a job search. Define your long-term objectives to streamline your job hunt.
Consider the following questions:
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What industry am I targeting?
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Is there a specific role I aspire to?
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What is my ultimate career goal?
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Customize your job search. Tailor your job search based on your skills and qualifications. Focus on positions that align with your experience and education level.
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Dedicate time to the search. Effective job searching requires time and effort. Aim to apply to multiple jobs daily and research companies to ensure they fit your values and qualifications.
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Take additional classes. Pursuing further education can enhance your qualifications for more job opportunities. Research the most sought-after degrees or certifications in your targeted field.
References
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U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Police and Detective Occupational Outlook
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U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Construction Manager Occupational Outlook
Author
Taylor Berman is a key contributor to the Zippia content team in charge of editing, fact checking, and maintaining content relevance over time. She enjoys writing articles that help people with their job search and creating stories that inspire people. Taylor earned a bachelor's degree in journalism and public relation with an interest in communications media from Indiana University Of Pennsylvania.
