If you’re a high school graduate in Birmingham looking for a job that pays well without needing a college degree, you’re in luck. Several career options in the city offer strong salaries, job security, and room to grow — all without a four-year degree.
Many of these roles require only on-the-job training, a certification course, or an associate degree, which means you can start earning faster.
One of the top-paying fields for high school graduates in Birmingham is the transportation and logistics industry.
For example, heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers are in high demand across Alabama. With a commercial driver’s license (CDL), which you can earn through a short training course, you can make an average salary of around $51,000 to $72,000 per year. This job also offers the chance to travel and build experience quickly.
Another strong option is the first-line supervisors of production and operating workers. These professionals supervise workers on factory floors or manufacturing sites and help manage production activities.
Many of them start with entry-level roles and move up with experience. In Birmingham, this position offers salaries ranging from $54,000 to $82,000 annually.
Sales representatives, especially those selling wholesale or manufacturing products (excluding technical and scientific products), are also seeing competitive pay. If you’re good with communication and enjoy working with people, this job can pay between $55,000 and $78,000 a year.
Many of these jobs don’t require a degree, but some employers may prefer candidates who have taken sales training or have experience in customer service.
Insurance sales agents are another option for high school graduates willing to study for a license. After passing the required state exams, agents can start selling policies and earn commissions. In Birmingham, agents typically earn between $48,000 and $76,000 per year, depending on performance and experience.
The construction industry also offers some of the highest-paying jobs for non-college graduates. Electricians, for example, can earn over $60,000 annually, and with more experience or certification, that number can grow quickly. Apprenticeships are available and offer hands-on training, making this a practical option for many.
Similarly, plumbers and pipefitters in Birmingham earn solid salaries. Most of them go through a training program or apprenticeship, and once licensed, they can earn between $45,000 and $75,000 a year. With demand for skilled trades rising, this field offers job security and long-term growth.
Another growing field is medical support jobs. For example, dental assistants and medical assistants can start working after a short certification course.
These jobs pay around $35,000 to $48,000, but with experience, promotions, and extra certifications, income can rise steadily. This is also a great entry point into the healthcare sector.
One of the fastest-growing jobs in the healthcare industry is a pharmacy technician. In Birmingham, pharmacy techs earn between $33,000 and $45,000 per year. Most positions require only a certification course and passing an exam. These roles also offer stable hours and benefits, especially if you work in hospitals or large retail chains.
If you enjoy working with your hands and building things, machinists and tool-and-die makers are careers worth exploring.
These jobs pay well, often over $50,000 annually, and offer consistent work in Birmingham’s manufacturing sector. Many workers enter this field through apprenticeships or technical training programs.
For those interested in office-based roles, executive assistants and office managers can also earn strong salaries. With organizational skills and computer proficiency, high school graduates can earn $45,000 to $60,000 in these roles.
While some employers may ask for prior experience, many are willing to train candidates who show potential.
Birmingham’s economy continues to support a wide range of job opportunities for those who don’t have a college degree. With some training, hard work, and the right certifications, high school graduates can build a rewarding and high-paying career.