Today’s job market is looking fraught for most of the working class. It’s challenging to get a job, whether you have a degree or not, and for those who want to pursue a degree, they can’t because of the high costs of academia. It’s unattainable for everyone! Either you have a college degree, are drowning in debt, and still struggling to find a decent job that allows you to live comfortably. Or you don’t have a degree, may (or may not) wish to get one, but can’t because it’s too expensive, and instead are searching for any job you can find to bring some sort of income into your life.
Whatever your situation, you’ll be pleased to find out that more companies are hiring people without college degrees. This helps those who need a job but don’t have the opportunity to pursue an education beforehand. Any job can be learned, and not all require a degree. This also supports those with a college degree; you won’t be turned away because you have one, rather, your resume will likely be considered in the hiring process. If you’ve been trying to find a job that supports employees without prior academic knowledge, keep reading and see what companies you can look into.
Apple
This one surprised me. A multinational tech company that has its products in every device, technology, and department store. It could be assumed that you’d need some prior knowledge of how phones, tablets, etc. work, what features they have, and what they do, such as SIM and SD cards, or how to connect a device to wifi and what wifi even is. But, as I said before, any job can be learned, and it seems Apple knows this, too. Apple salaries vary by role and location, but they’re usually between $19 and $30/hr.
Another company I was slightly surprised to see on here, but I’m sure, just like Apple, the conglomerate knows that any job can be learned. Its focus is on IT, advertising, search engines, software, e-commerce, and so much more. Google would be a great way to get a starter job and work your way into higher roles with greater esteem. From a warehouse worker to a software engineer, you can have an annual income from $50-$100k to $1M and over.
Penguin Random House
Calling all book lovers! One of, if not the, most popular publishing company for novels you see in every bookstore hires individuals without college degrees. If you’re one of those bookworms who tends to stay in your bedroom and indulge in heaps of books, this is probably your dream. From entry-level positions to senior, you can earn $51K annually to over $150K.
Ernst & Young
Considered one of the “Big Four” of the accounting firms, Ernst & Young is a decent company to get your foot in. The company has many services, including consulting, tax services, and auditing, to name a few, and these skills you’d eventually learn are great for getting future jobs elsewhere, if you wish.
Hilton
The hospitality company everyone knows, Hilton, could be a fun and interesting place to work for many. With its several hotels and resorts, you can work at the front desk, be an analyst, a coordinator, a specialist, and so much more. This is also a great way to get experience with communication skills, taking initiative, and helping out when things may not go as planned.
Publix
The employee-owned supermarket chain would be great for those without degrees. The fact that former employees own it should tell you all you need to know. They probably know the ins and outs of working at a supermarket and can help anyone new to the environment find their way around. The hourly rate for Publix ranges from $16-$20.
Bank of America
Bank of America is an investment bank and financial service company that you’ve probably heard of, and maybe even have an account with. Some entry-level roles include a Quantitative Engineer Analyst, Community Outreach Associate, Business Development Representative, and more. The average salary range is $39,000 to almost $170K. More prominent roles can make over $500K!
IBM
And yet another tech company on this list. IBM is known for its software, consulting, hybrid cloud, and AI solutions, so there are several options to choose from if you’re job-seeking at this company.
Lowe's
Lowe’s, the store that, no matter your age, you feel like a child in a toy store. Don’t all the furniture, lights, and kitchens make you want to renovate everything in your own home? Anyways, the home improvement company is a good place to find a job that doesn’t need much prior experience.
Starbucks
The popular coffee house and roastery that everyone and their mother has waited in line for at some point is yet another company that hires without considering university degrees. Favor the Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso or the chain’s pumpkin spice drinks? Well, you could perfect how they’re made by applying for a job there. As a barista, you would earn $15-17/hr, and as a shift supervisor, you’d earn $19-$22/hr.
Home Depot
Home Depot, the other home improvement store every dad loves, could be the place for you. There is a variety of roles to choose from: a lot associate, merchandising, store support, service/sales, etc.
Whole Foods
The grocery store that prioritizes organic, local, and plant-based foods hires applicants without a degree. If you’re a health fiend, this is likely your dream workplace, and I wouldn’t doubt that, as an employee, you’d receive discounts on their products. If Whole Foods interests you, look into it further, and maybe you’ll find the perfect job.
Chipotle
Craving a ginormous burrito from Chipotle? Well, go ahead and treat yourself to one, and while you’re at it, apply for a job too. They don’t prioritize college degrees, so your chances of getting a job there are likely. Not to mention, you can probably make your own burrito bowl every shift.
Costco Wholesale
Whenever you need to buy something in bulk, your best bet is Costco, and if you’re searching for a job with no prior experience, this is a great place for that, as well. Plus, as an employee, you receive some perks, such as a free Executive Membership and bonuses. Pharmacists' hourly salaries range from $16 to $72.50.
Netflix
The streaming service that is taking the media by storm doesn’t look for valued degrees, but for relevant skills, experience, the ability to problem-solve, and more. This doesn’t apply to all jobs at the company, but you can find something within the media company's technical and business functions.
Dell
Dell Technologies is similar to Netflix, where the company doesn’t prioritize a degree and is more skill-focused. Jobs range from an engineer, an analyst, and an intern, but some roles do require a college education, so look out for those if you decide to apply.
Tesla
Whether you think the Cyber Truck is an abomination or a feat of automobile tech, it’s good to know that Tesla doesn’t require a college degree for employees. You could be a Quality Inspector, Tesla Advisor for delivery, or a Customer Experience Specialist, to name a few.
Oracle
The software company doesn’t require its employees to have a college degree to work there. You can have a technical or non-technical degree, and the company will consider your qualifications and skills. However, a degree can be a strong preference depending on the role.
Slack
Slack is a work management and productivity tool for workplace communication. The company doesn’t require an education for all of its jobs, and you can definitely get one with your skills and experience alone. If you have a dedication to learn, you have the potential to land a job at Slack.
Meta (Facebook)
Meta typically requires a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field, but certificates are offered to help those without degrees land an entry-level job at the company. If working at Meta interests you, don’t fret if you don’t have a degree; the company also looks for ability, depth of skill, and practical experience.
