Find a Job You Really Want In
Summary. Entry-level jobs for individuals with a high school diploma include postal service worker, retail sales associate, cashier, and janitor. High-earning positions for high school diploma holders include flight attendant, real estate agent, and pharmacy technician.
Securing a fulfilling and lucrative career does not solely rely on obtaining a college degree. Numerous opportunities exist for those with a high school diploma, especially in 2026, as industries continue to evolve.
If you only possess a high school diploma, your first step should be to seek entry-level positions. With work experience and skill development, you can progress into high-paying remote or in-person roles that are available for high school graduates.
Key Takeaways:
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Prepare to start in entry-level positions and leverage on-the-job training to advance.
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While salaries may be limited for jobs requiring a high school diploma, pursuing additional training and certifications can lead to better pay and promotions.
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A college degree does not guarantee higher earnings; dedicated high school graduates can achieve high salaries across various industries by enhancing their skill sets.
- 6 Best Entry-Level Jobs for People With a High School Diploma
- 10 High-Earning Jobs for High School Graduates
- 4 Work-From-Home Jobs for People With a High School Diploma
- What to Look for in Jobs With a High School Diploma
- High School Diploma Jobs FAQ
- Final Thoughts
- References
- Sign Up For More Advice and Jobs
6 Best Entry-Level Jobs for People With a High School Diploma
If you’re exploring career options after high school, a range of entry-level jobs await you, ideal for those with a high school diploma.
Consider these positions as excellent starting points:
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Postal Service Worker
Average Annual Salary: $40,152Postal service jobs offer stability, competitive salaries, and robust federal benefits. Typically requiring only a high school diploma, these roles involve short-term training.
Postal service workers handle mail delivery, sales of postal products, and sorting parcels. The median annual wage for postal service workers is approximately $52,060.
Job requirements: To qualify, you must be at least 18 years old, or 16 with a high school diploma. U.S. citizenship or permanent resident status is necessary, and males must register with the Selective Service by age 18.
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Retail Sales Associate Cashier
Average Annual Salary: $31,000Retail sales associates work in various retail environments, processing payments, assisting customers, and stocking products.
Suitable for high school graduates, these positions typically pay between $13-$16 per hour and include on-the-job training, providing a pathway to managerial roles in retail.
Job requirements: Generally, no formal qualifications are needed, but familiarity with point-of-sale systems can enhance your earning potential.
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Home Health Aide
Average Annual Salary: $24,000Home health aides are experiencing a surge in demand, particularly due to the ongoing emphasis on personalized care. The Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates a 41% growth in this sector.
This role is ideal for high school graduates seeking entry-level opportunities in healthcare, providing personal care to individuals in need.
Job requirements: Reliable transportation and the ability to pass a background check are necessary. Employers often prefer references.
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Driver
Average Annual Salary: $29,000Drivers remain in high demand, with opportunities extending across various sectors, including rideshare and delivery services. No formal education is required, but a clean driving record and relevant certifications may be necessary.
This role is an excellent entry point for job seekers with a high school diploma.
Job requirements: A valid driver’s license and, for some positions, proof of a reliable vehicle.
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Waiter or Waitress
Average Annual Salary: $20,000This role provides a vibrant work environment and networking opportunities. Waitstaff positions require no formal education and are ideal for high school graduates.
Job requirements: No formal qualifications needed, though age restrictions may apply depending on the establishment.
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Janitor
Average Annual Salary: $23,000While not the most glamorous job, janitorial roles are consistently in demand and offer a flexible schedule, especially for evening shifts.
Job requirements: Basic maintenance skills may be needed depending on the specific position.
10 High-Earning Jobs for High School Graduates
If you’re aiming for a well-paying job without a college degree, many lucrative options remain available. While some positions may require additional training or certifications, the investment can pay off significantly.
Here are ten high-paying jobs available to high school graduates:
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Flight Attendant
Average Annual Salary: $37,000Flight attendants primarily require a high school diploma or GED. They ensure passenger comfort and safety during flights. Certification and training are mandatory before starting the role.
Flight attendants can earn between $50,000 and $77,000 annually, depending on the airline.
Job requirements: Valid passport, background check, and drug test. Customer service experience is beneficial.
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Maintenance or Repair Worker
Average Annual Salary: $33,000Maintenance workers often earn substantial salaries without requiring a college degree. Many advance through on-the-job training or apprenticeships.
Plumbers, for instance, can make between $67,000 and $97,000 annually after gaining the necessary certifications.
Job requirements: Skills relevant to the specific trade are necessary, and many positions require completing an apprenticeship.
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Chef
Average Annual Salary: $44,000Individuals with a passion for cooking can thrive as chefs, often learning through practical experience rather than formal education.
While culinary school is an option, many successful chefs advance without it, with some earning significantly higher salaries.
Job requirements: Most restaurants prioritize cooking skills and creativity; a portfolio of dishes can be advantageous.
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Real Estate Agent
Average Annual Salary: $99,000Real estate agents require a high school diploma and a state license. They facilitate property transactions, and successful agents can earn substantial commissions.
While the housing market can fluctuate, many agents earn over $50,000 annually, with top performers earning much more.
Job requirements: A state license is mandatory, which involves completing courses and passing an exam.
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Police Officer
Average Annual Salary: $47,000Police officers require a high school diploma and must pass a police entrance exam and training academy.
This rewarding career often offers an average salary of around $65,000, with growth expected in law enforcement roles.
Job requirements: State-specific background checks and valid driver’s licenses are necessary. Some agencies may require college credits.
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Pharmacy Technician
Average Annual Salary: $34,000Pharmacy technicians assist in dispensing medications and require a high school diploma and typically a certification.
They can earn approximately $40,000 annually, with job growth in the healthcare sector.
Job requirements: A pharmacy technician certification is required, which can be obtained through recognized programs.
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Optician
Average Annual Salary: $33,000Opticians provide essential services in eyewear fitting and can earn nearly $40,000 annually with a high school diploma and on-the-job training.
Job requirements: Licensing is required in many states, involving completion of an approved program or apprenticeship.
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Personal Trainer
Average Annual Salary: $38,000If fitness is your passion, consider a career in personal training. Successful trainers can earn between $40,000 and $60,000 annually.
Job requirements: A high school diploma, personal trainer certification, and the ability to motivate clients are essential.
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Hotel Manager
Average Annual Salary: $58,000Hotel managers oversee hotel operations and can earn more than $50,000 annually, making it an attractive career for high school graduates.
Job requirements: Experience in hospitality and relevant coursework can enhance career prospects.
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Landscaper
Average Annual Salary: $26,000Landscapers maintain outdoor spaces and can earn around $30,000 annually, with experienced workers making significantly more.
Job requirements: Comfort with landscaping equipment is necessary for this role.
4 Work-From-Home Jobs for People With a High School Diploma
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Virtual Assistant
Average Annual Salary: $24,000Virtual assistants are ideal for high school graduates seeking low-stress careers. This role involves completing administrative tasks remotely.
Job requirements: Basic computer skills and organizational abilities are essential.
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Insurance Sales Agent
Average Annual Salary: $49,000This role offers flexible work-from-home opportunities, as agents primarily engage with customers remotely.
Insurance sales agents are in demand, with average earnings exceeding $50,000 annually.
Job requirements: While a high school diploma suffices, obtaining a state license is mandatory.
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Customer Service Representative
Average Annual Salary: $29,000Customer service representatives are among the most common remote jobs today, handling inquiries and resolving issues.
On average, they earn nearly $35,000 annually.
Job requirements: Previous experience in retail or customer service is beneficial but not mandatory.
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Web Designer and Developer
Average Annual Salary: $61,000Web design and development remain lucrative options for high school graduates, with salaries averaging over $73,500 annually.
As this field continues to expand, those with the necessary skills are in high demand.
Job requirements: Proficiency in HTML/CSS and other relevant programming languages is crucial. Certification courses can enhance employability.
What to Look for in Jobs With a High School Diploma
Various career options exist that do not necessitate a college degree; however, training and certification may be required or recommended. Often, additional qualifications lead to enhanced income and benefits.
With declining college enrollments, many young people are opting to enter the workforce directly after high school, seeking jobs that meet their career and financial needs.
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Assess your skills and interests. Strong interpersonal and job-specific skills can give you an edge over competitors, including those with college degrees.
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Understand job requirements. Review job descriptions to ensure you meet the qualifications before applying. Some roles may require further education or training.
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Research competition. Certain certifications may be prerequisites for in-demand positions. Popular certifications include Google, Help Desk, and Salesforce.
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Pay attention to employer requirements. Tailor your resume and cover letter to align with job descriptions, enhancing your chances of securing an interview.
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Pursue jobs that match your interests. With numerous options available, aim for a role that aligns with your career aspirations rather than settling for any job.
High School Diploma Jobs FAQ
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Can you be successful with a high school diploma?
Yes, you can achieve success with a high school diploma. It qualifies you for numerous training programs and opens up job opportunities that would otherwise be inaccessible.
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What are the benefits of a high school diploma?
The benefits include higher earnings and career advancement opportunities. High school graduates typically earn significantly more than those without a diploma, which also facilitates career progression.
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Why is it important to graduate from high school?
A high school diploma is a standard requirement for most jobs. Not obtaining one can limit employment opportunities and often results in lower wages for available positions.
Final Thoughts
Numerous rewarding and high-paying career options are available for individuals without a college degree. With a high school diploma and relevant skills, you can build a successful professional life and pursue your dream job.
Utilizing the insights from this article will guide you toward finding a fulfilling and well-compensated position suitable for high school graduates.
References
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U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Postal Service Worker Occupational Outlook
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U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Real Estate Agent Occupational Outlook
Author
Elsie is an experienced writer, reporter, and content creator. As a leader in her field, Elsie is best known for her work as a Reporter for The Southampton Press, but she can also be credited with contributions to Long Island Pulse Magazine and Hamptons Online. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from Stony Brook University and currently resides in Franklin, Tennessee.
