If you were ever told that you need a four-year degree to get a high-paying job, let us tell you: that’s completely untrue. There is an ever-increasing demand for workers who have a vocational or tech school (vo-tech) education, and many of these jobs pay incredibly well. All you need is job training.

If you’re unhappy in your current career or you are considering all of your options after high school, here are just some of the many best jobs for vo-tech school graduates:

1. Elevator Installer/Repairer

With buildings being constantly constructed higher and higher, elevator technicians are in high demand. Mechanic, installer and repairer careers are expected to grow 12 percent by 2026. In this job, you will be in charge of installing elevators, performing regular maintenance on all of the components, and also work with other elements like escalators and moving walkways.

However, it’s important to note that elevator mechanics often have to work in tight spaces. The work can also be dangerous at times, especially burns, falls and pulled muscles. You may have to be on call on weekends and holidays.

Median annual salary: $77,806

Required education: High school diploma/GED and apprenticeship

2. Radiation Therapist

Radiation therapists work with oncologists to help administer radiation treatment for cancer patients. They also explain treatment plans to patients and answer their questions. Therapists may be in charge of identifying the area that requires treatment, and calibrating the machines used to deliver radiation treatment. 

Radiation therapists may have to work weekends and holidays. In addition, they generally work in hospitals, which can be a turn-off for some people. If you want to help people without spending 8-12 years in school, radiation therapy is one of the best jobs for vocational school graduates.

Median annual salary: $82,330

Required education: Associate degree; licensure required

3. Geological and Petroleum Technician

There are two big requirements to be a geological and petroleum technician: You must love being outside and getting your hands dirty, and you must love math. If you meet these requirements, then your ideal occupation may be just a short degree away. As a geological and petroleum technician, you will be in charge of installing and maintaining equipment, recording data, testing samples, and compiling reports and maps. 

You will need a love for numbers and data analysis to succeed in this career. You will also need to be ready to travel to different locations, both outdoors and to different laboratories, to do your work. Some companies may require a bachelor’s degree, but many simply require a vocational education as enough job training.

Median salary: $53,300

Required education: Associate degree

4. Diagnostic Medical Sonographer

Diagnostic medical sonographers are the people who actually administer ultrasounds. They also prepare patients for ultrasounds and related procedures, then review and process images before they go to the doctor for physician. At times, diagnostic medical sonographers will be required to examine equipment and report any issues. Like other medical professionals, sonographers must maintain the strictest level of confidentiality.

Depending on where you are in your career, you may just need to go through a one-year certification program (if you have worked in other healthcare occupations), or you may need a longer degree. If you enjoy working closely with patients and physicians in a hospital setting, being a diagnostic medical sonographer can be a great career.

Median salary: $55,270

Required education: Associate degree, certification, licensing (in some states)

5. Electrician

Electricians have been in demand ever since Thomas Edison founded his electric company in 1880. However, being an electrician is much more than just troubleshooting and fixing issues in residences. They are in charge of planning and installing electrical programs through new buildings, diagnosing issues using diagrams or blueprints, repairing electrical systems, and much more.

Electricians typically go through a four-year job training apprenticeship. In addition, they are at risk for electrocutions and burns. Electricians often work in tight (and sometimes unsafe) spaces, so this job is definitely not for everyone. You must also have correct color vision to identify different colored wires, and have good hand-eye coordination.

Median salary: $55,190

Required education: High school diploma/GED, four-year apprenticeship, licensing

Get the Skills You Need to Have a Fulfilling Career

These are only a few of the best jobs for vocational school graduates. All of these jobs have a positive growth outlook, so they’ll be around for a long time. If you’re interested in these or any other jobs, you need job training. At the Center for Employment Training, we can help you prepare for the career you’ve always dreamed of.

Find out why so many people are turning to job training instead of a four-year degree by contacting a location near you!