10 Jobs for Workers Over 60 That Don’t Require a College Degree

Education requirements in the U.S. have changed as far as jobs are concerned. It’s called educational inflation — the demand from certain employers that you need a degree, even if you don’t need one to do the job.

This can have serious implications for older Americans, particularly those over 60, for whom a degree may not have been needed when applying for work. Even now, according to the Census Bureau, less than 40% of people 25 and up have a bachelor’s degree. 

Yet it can still be a hard-line requirement from some employers, so here are 10 jobs for workers over 60 that don't require a college degree for folks who want to stop living paycheck to paycheck.

Salary data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Average salary/hourly compensation: $31,830/$15.31

Not everyone loves animals, but if you do, this can be an excellent option since demand is rising. No matter what your preferred type of critter is, there’s probably a gig for you. Animal caretakers are needed everywhere, from kennels to shelters and zoos.

Average salary/hourly compensation: $48,230/$23.19

Bus drivers are an integral part of the American transportation system, both in terms of getting kids to school and getting commuters where they need to go.

According to the BLS, it’s one occupation in which at least a third of the workforce comprises people who are 55 and over. Part-time gigs are common.

Average salary/hourly compensation: $73,680/$35.42

Executive assistants are key to helping executives get their jobs done. They are needed across various industries, from businesses to colleges and even software development.

They conduct research, prepare reports, handle information requests, and manage routine tasks like correspondence, scheduling meetings, and arranging calls.

They might also find themselves training younger staffers. It’s a position where your experience matters more than your educational background.

Average salary/hourly compensation: $75,020/$36.07

Insurance investigators handle claims involving suspected fraud, like arson, staged accidents, or unnecessary treatments. Fraud cases can range from minor to complex schemes.

Investigators often conduct surveillance, like monitoring claimants in workers’ compensation cases for activities that contradict their reported injuries. It’s good if you enjoy being out of the office since it involves a lot of work outside.

Average salary/hourly compensation: $47,450/$22.81

Jewelers, precious stones, and metal workers have many potential duties.

They may design and create jewelry from metals and stones, grade gems, clean and repair jewelry, polish rough areas, model new pieces, cast in metal, shape settings, solder pieces, and insert the stones.

According to the BLS, almost half are self-employed, which can be a boon for older Americans.

Average salary/hourly compensation: $40,760/$19.60

If you can imagine the perfect picture in your mind and have the equipment, photography is an excellent option for utilizing a keen eye.

While you don’t need a college degree to get into it, many people opt for photography classes to help them develop their talents. It can be great both for those who want to set up a portrait shop as well as those who want to be outdoors.

Average salary/hourly compensation: $56,620/$27.22

You probably have a good idea of what real estate brokers and agents do: They assist their clients in buying, renting, and selling properties. Most are self-employed.

While the job may include some bizarre hours, depending on the client’s needs, you can usually set your hours, which can be great for older Americans.

Average salary/hourly compensation: $47,410/$22.79

It’s pretty standard these days for people to make travel plans online without ever talking to someone, but travel agents can still play an essential role in planning their trips.

Some work for corporate clients and others work with anyone looking for a good vacation. This job combines communication, organization, and sales skills.

Travel agents can either work for a travel company or go the self-employment route.

Average salary/hourly compensation: $54,320/$26.12

The median age for truck drivers is just a hair over 46, which means there are a solid number of older Americans working in the field.

While you don’t need a college degree, you’ll have to have your commercial driver’s license, which means attending a driving school. But it could be a good option if you love the open road.

Average salary/hourly compensation: $73,080/$35.13

Wholesale and manufacturing sales representatives sell products to businesses, government agencies, and organizations. They contact customers, explain product features, negotiate prices, and address questions.

Part-time positions are flexible and often available at local stores or small businesses.

Older job-seeking Americans should not be deterred from entering the workforce if they don’t have a typical college degree. Years of experience and on-site training can open the doors to many lucrative career paths.

Investing time in finding one is a smart financial move that will pay off in the long run.