In this article, we will look at the 17 highest-paying government jobs without a degree. We will also analyze the current job scenario of the federal government and the changing landscape it is adapting to. If you want to skip our detailed analysis, you can head straight to 5 Highest-Paying Government Jobs Without a Degree.
The public sector in the United States is facing serious challenges in hiring for essential jobs, such as teachers, police officers, firefighters, paramedics, and garbage collectors. As of July 2022, there were 1.1 million unfilled positions at the local, state, and federal levels, nearly double the number from five years ago. Federal jobs have not recovered as steadily as private sector employment, with surveys revealing dissatisfaction among government employees regarding wages. Layoffs during the pandemic and the Great Recession have also highlighted that government jobs are not necessarily secure.
Federal Government Aims to Bridge Tech Talent Gap Amidst Layoffs in Private Sector
To improve the situation, the US Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is taking steps to attract tech industry talent to the federal workforce, especially now as layoffs continue to impact companies like Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ:AMZN), Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT), Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG), and Meta Platforms Inc (NASDAQ:META). OPM plans to issue new pay guidance, allowing agencies to hire tech workers at higher rates. The increased pay will be funded partially through the 2021 infrastructure funding bill and the 2022 CHIPS Act.
Currently, the federal government is offering numerous opportunities for tech professionals in sectors such as energy, transportation, healthcare, and national security. While the tech industry has recently experienced waves of layoffs, affecting around 191,912 employees across 1,148 companies, the federal government has been unable to fill approximately 2,500 jobs in the past three years. Hence, OPM has launched the website tech.usajobs.gov to simplify the application process for multiple federal jobs, with a promising increase of 50% in the availability of options for remote and telework in the last two fiscal years. Currently, the federal government has been on a lookout for the job of accountancy in remote position, which is also one of the high-paying remote jobs without a degree and experience.
Remote Work in Government Jobs: A New Reality
On the brighter side, however, in an effort to improve hiring for federal jobs, the United States Government has not only embraced but also ensured to pay lucrative compensation for remote positions. These roles can come with salaries as high as $180,000. Currently, there are approximately 688 federal remote or remote-eligible job openings listed on the USAJOBS website, spanning various departments such as finance, marketing, medical care, research, engineering, and more. These positions cater to individuals at all levels, from entry-level to executive positions. Additionally, U.S. government employees and their families enjoy a range of benefits, including flexible spending accounts, and health, vision, dental, and life insurance plans. Speaking of the benefits, the highest-paying job in the government is that of the U.S President who makes $400,000 annually.
Along with the rise of remote jobs, both in the public and the private sector, the popularity of federal jobs without a degree, and jobs without experience and a degree has also been noticeable. This can be attributed to the pandemic which accelerated digital transformation through online learning and created new job opportunities that prioritized skills over formal qualifications, making it easier for individuals without degrees to enter the workforce. According to US News, the highest salary without a degree is that of a patrol officer with a median salary of $64,610.
Key Companies in the Government
Lockheed Martin Corporation (NYSE:LMT): As a global aerospace and defense company, Lockheed Martin Corporation (NYSE:LMT) plays a significant role in supporting the US military and government agencies. They are known for their expertise in advanced technology systems, defense, space exploration, and cyber security.
According to Vox, graduates in 2023 have shown significant interest in companies like Lockheed Martin Corporation (NYSE:LMT) and Raytheon Technologies Corp (NYSE:RTX), as evidenced by the substantial increase in search activity on the popular college career site, Handshake. These companies have emerged as top choices among recent graduates which also reflects their reputation within the job market.
General Dynamics Corporation (NYSE:GD): General Dynamics Corporation (NYSE:GD) is a prominent defense contractor that supplies a wide range of products and services to the US government. Their areas of specialty include military vehicles, weapons systems, information technology solutions, and marine systems.
The U.S. Army has chosen General Dynamics Corporation (NYSE:GD) and American Rheinmetall as finalists to compete for a contract worth over $45 billion to replace the Bradley fighting vehicle. The companies will receive contracts worth approximately $1.6 billion to develop digital designs and prototypes for testing.
As the primary builder of submarines for the US Navy for over a century, General Dynamics Electric Boat, a subsidiary of the General Dynamic Corp (NYSE:GD), is the largest for-profit employer in Connecticut, employing about 60% of the state's workforce. In 2023, the company plans to hire over 5,000 employees, marking its largest expansion to date. With a $13 billion allocation from Congress and a $5 billion contribution from the US Navy, Electric Boat will construct five new Columbia class submarines, set to be completed by 2030.
Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN): Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN) is a leading professional services company that provides consulting, technology, and outsourcing services to various government agencies. Their expertise lies in digital transformation, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and data analytics.
Apart from these services, the compensation offered to employees at Accenture plc are also highly competitive. For example, the average yearly pay for a a project manager is $87,194. in the US government. In contrast, Accenture plc (NYSE:CAN), offers a higher average salary of approximately $97,780 for project managers, which is 17% above the national average.
Accenture Federal Services (AFS), a subsidiary of Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN), has been awarded a $2.6 billion contract by the US Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to modernize its systems. The seven-year Enterprise Development, Operations Services (EDOS) contract aims to consolidate over 400 systems within the IRS's applications development portfolio.
17 Highest Paying Government Jobs without a degree
In order to compile the list of the highest paying government jobs without a degree, we conducted thorough research utilizing various online platforms such as US News, Indeed.com, and Reddit. Our goal was to create a comprehensive and reliable list that reflects the consensus among these sources. To rank the jobs in order, we considered the mean hourly wage as a determining factor. The wage data for these positions was sourced from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, ensuring the accuracy and relevance of the information. The data used for the rankings were updated until May 2022, providing up-to-date insights.
Note: While none of these jobs require a formal bachelor’s degree or an associate degree, some may require an official license or specialized training and experience.
Here is a list of 17 Highest Paying Government Jobs without a Degree
17. Data Entry Clerk
Mean Hourly Wage: $18.26
Data entry jobs are common in the federal government due to the extensive amount of data that needs to be accurately recorded, organized, and maintained. These roles are crucial for efficient administration, compliance, and effective decision-making within government agencies. It is an easy government job that pays well.
16. Office Clerk
Mean Hourly Wage: $19.78
Office clerks handle various responsibilities such as managing correspondence, organizing files, maintaining records, scheduling appointments, and providing general office support. Their presence is crucial for maintaining productivity and facilitating effective communication within government offices and departments. It is one of the best government jobs with no experience.
15. Social Service Assistant
Mean Hourly Wage: $20
These professionals work directly with social workers, and help to implement and coordinate social service programs. They also conduct client assessments, providing resources and referrals, and assisting with case management tasks. Social service assistants are instrumental in ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the necessary support and access to available social services provided by government agencies.
14. Census Clerk
Mean Hourly Wage: $22.42
A census clerk is an administrative professional employed by the U.S. Census Bureau to aid in gathering statistical data about the population and economy of the country. Their role involves carrying out various clerical duties to support census takers, who are responsible for collecting information from households in the community.
13. Accounting Clerk
Mean Hourly Wage: $22.81
Accounting clerks are commonly employed in the government sector to assist with financial record-keeping and administrative tasks. Their responsibilities typically include maintaining financial records, reconciling accounts, processing invoices, preparing financial reports, and assisting with budgeting and auditing processes.
12. Transportation Security Screener
Mean Hourly Wage: $23.33
Transportation security screeners are employed by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the United States. They are responsible for screening passengers, baggage, and cargo at airports and other transportation hubs to ensure the safety and security of the traveling public.
For the position of transportation security screener, a high school diploma or equivalent is generally the minimum educational requirement. Candidates must meet other specific eligibility criteria, including passing a background check, completing training programs, and demonstrating necessary skills and abilities. It is one of the best government jobs with a high school diploma.
11. Supply Technician
Mean Hourly Wage: $23.84
Supply technicians play a vital role in the government sector, particularly in areas such as military operations and government agencies that manage inventory and supplies. These professionals are responsible for managing and organizing inventory, receiving and inspecting incoming supplies, maintaining stock records, processing orders, and distributing supplies to various departments or units.
The educational requirements for supply technician positions in the US government can vary. While some positions may only require a high school diploma or equivalent, others may prefer candidates with additional education or specialized training in supply chain management or logistics.
10. Financial Clerk
Mean Hourly Wage: $23.90
It is one of the highest-paying government jobs in America. Jobs for financial clerks are quite prevalent in the federal government due to the need for accurate financial record-keeping and compliance. They are well-paid to attract skilled professionals who ensure fiscal accountability and efficient financial management.
9. Correctional Officer
Mean Hourly Wage: $24.10
Correctional officers are essential personnel within the federal government responsible for maintaining order and security in correctional facilities. They oversee the custody, supervision, and care of inmates. It is one of the jobs that still offer traditional pensions.
8. Water and Waste Water Treatment Plant Operator
Mean Hourly Wage: $26.78
Waste and water management plant operators are integral to the federal government's efforts to ensure proper waste and water treatment and maintain environmental standards. These positions often offer competitive salaries to attract qualified individuals who can effectively manage waste and water treatment processes to safeguard the environment and public well-being.
To become a water plant operator, a high school diploma and professional certification, such as a water operator license, are typically required.
7. Postal Service Mail Carrier
Mean Hourly Wage: $27.04
While a college degree is not necessary, mail carriers must possess good physical stamina, organizational skills, and a valid driver's license. As part of the United States Postal Service (USPS), mail carriers contribute to the efficient functioning of the mail delivery system, ensuring that mail reaches its intended recipients accurately and in a timely manner.
6. Postal Service Clerk
Mean Hourly Wage: $27.11
Postal Service clerks are important members of the federal government who work in post offices to assist customers with various postal needs. They handle customer inquiries, process incoming and outgoing mail, sell postage, and manage other administrative tasks. It is also an easy government job that pays well.
