Choosing the right career isn’t always as easy as picking the most prestigious or well-paying option. You need to find something you won’t dread as the years go on, and hopefully something you can even enjoy doing. You also have to decide how much school and training you want to do or can afford.
While many choose to go to a four-year college and pursue a degree in computer science, engineering, architecture, or something similar, others prefer something that requires less training. If you prefer physical work that doesn’t require a lot of extra training, a job in construction might be right for you. Check out these construction jobs that don’t require a university degree.
Heavy Equipment Operator
If you love the idea of operating heavy machinery on a construction site, you should consider becoming a heavy equipment operator. There are plenty of different aspects to this job, as different aspects of construction use different machinery. To become a heavy equipment operator, you won’t need a college degree. But you will need to do some training, get certified, and get the right commercial license to operate heavy equipment. You can learn to operate all kinds of equipment, like cranes, asphalt pavers, backhoes, dump trucks, bulldozers, excavators, and more. It can be a dangerous job, so be sure to go through a good training program and take regular safety courses if you choose this career.
Plumber
While it may not seem like the most glamorous job, there are plenty of benefits to choosing a career as a plumber. You can start making money while you learn as an apprentice, and you don’t need a college degree. Once you’ve become a licensed plumber, you can work for a company or start your own plumbing business. Plumbers have great job security since it’s an essential trade for every community. They also make a good salary. You’ll get a chance to work with people and use problem-solving skills. It’s a great career choice if you’re looking for something you can do without getting a degree.
Roofing Contractor
Roofing contractors make good money, in part because of the difficulty and danger of their job. But you can start learning this trade with just a high school degree, and as become more experienced you can start your own business. Roofing might be a good choice for you if you enjoy working outdoors and like the variety of working on different jobs. In many regions, roofing is seasonal work, since it’s too dangerous to work on the roof when it’s raining or snowing. So if you like staying in on rainy days, look into becoming a roofing contractor.
Electrician
Electricians are among the most well-paid tradespeople. You can make an excellent living if you become an electrician, but you will have to go through the process of training and getting any certifications and licenses your area requires. Thankfully, you can train on the job through apprentice programs, meaning you won’t have to shell out big bucks for a degree. As you gain experience, you can specialize in certain areas of electrical work that you like doing the most. Of course, electricians need to learn proper safety, as this can be a dangerous job for someone that’s not used to working with electricity.
Carpenter
Carpentry is fulfilling work, as you get to work with your hands and make something. Carpenters can work on a huge variety of projects, or specialize in whatever aspect of carpentry they prefer. Skilled carpenters are in high demand and make a good living. It’s a great choice if you want to do physical labor and learn an in-demand trade.
Painting Contractor
Have an eye for design and color? Then you might look into becoming a painting contractor. Like many of the jobs mentioned, painting is fulfilling work that you can learn quickly and master over time. You can work painting residential or commercial buildings. Each job has its own unique challenges, so you’ll never get bored. You also get to see the satisfaction of your customers when they see the final results. If you start your own business, you can increase your earnings and make your own schedule.
Construction Supervisor
If you think you’d make a great boss and know how to manage people and organize projects, construction supervisor is the job for you. Construction supervisors oversee construction sites, manage the crew, make sure everything is done safely, and keep everyone on task. While you can’t just apply to become a supervisor without experience, a college degree isn’t a requirement. You might start out as a construction worker, and once you’ve gained experience and earned the trust of your employers, you can move up the ranks.
Choosing a career isn’t easy. For those who don’t want to take on a lot of debt and years of school, a career in a trade is an excellent choice. Many trade jobs offer good pay, enjoyable work, and room to advance. If you’re interested in learning a trade, consider the options mentioned in this article and look for apprenticeship opportunities nearby.