Looking for high-paying jobs with no experience? Good news: Plenty of opportunities exist for beginners. These high-paying roles focus more on skills, willingness to learn, or certification rather than extensive experience.
We’ll walk you through some of the most lucrative no-experience jobs that pay well, with tips for landing these roles and how to position yourself for success. Whether you're fresh out of school or seeking a career change, these ideas can open new doors to financial stability.
10 no-experience, high-paying jobs you can land
Some jobs prioritize practical skills, certifications, and training over prior work experience—and those are the jobs you should be targeting.
“Though someone can approach employment with the thought of ‘I don't have any experience,’ the truth is that they have more experience than they think,” says Virginia Stockwell, a business coach. “It's likely they've mastered something in their life that others want to learn from.”
The jobs listed below were chosen based on key factors like earning potential, ease of entry, growth opportunities, and market demand. They are designed to be accessible and offer high earning potential, even for individuals with little or no prior experience.
Here are some good paying jobs—no experience needed.
1. Real estate agent
Average salary: $50,000–$100,000+ (based on commission)
Typical requirements: State licensing, communication skills, and self-motivation
Real estate agents help clients buy, sell, or rent properties and earn commissions based on the value of the transactions they close. As you build a client base, your earnings can grow exponentially. While this role requires obtaining a state license, the process is relatively straightforward and involves completing pre-licensing courses and passing an exam.
2. Sales representative
Average salary: $40,000–$80,000+
Typical requirements: Strong communication skills and product knowledge (often provided in training)
Many sales roles include commission structures that reward performance, allowing motivated individuals to excel financially. The role requires excellent communication skills to build relationships with customers and close deals. Training is typically provided to familiarize new hires with the products or services they’ll be selling.
3. Flight attendant
Average salary: $50,000–$75,000+
Typical requirements: FAA certification (provided during training) and a customer-service mindset
Flight attendants are responsible for ensuring passenger safety and providing excellent service during flights. The job includes benefits like travel perks and overtime pay, alongside the base salary. While airlines generally require candidates to have a high school diploma or equivalent, the necessary FAA certification and job-specific training are provided after hiring.
4. Web developer
Average salary: $60,000–$100,000+
Typical requirements: Basic coding knowledge (HTML, CSS, JavaScript); often self-taught or acquired through bootcamps
Web developer is one of the best work-from-home jobs that pays well—no experience needed. This role is in high demand as businesses prioritize digital presence, making this a lucrative tech entry point.
5. Delivery driver
Average salary: $40,000–$75,000+
Typical requirements: Driver’s license, clean driving record
Companies like Amazon, UPS, and FedEx offer competitive pay, and some even provide benefits such as healthcare, retirement plans, and tuition reimbursement. Drivers may also receive bonuses or overtime pay during busy seasons.
6. Administrative assistant
Average salary: $35,000–$55,000+
Typical requirements: Organization and communication skills; no degree required
Administrative assistants handle essential office tasks such as scheduling meetings, managing correspondence, and maintaining records.
These roles are often a gateway to other professional opportunities, as they provide exposure to various departments and business operations. With strong performance, administrative assistants can move into roles like office manager, executive assistant, or even department coordinator.
7. Virtual assistant
Average salary: $40,000–$60,000+
Typical requirements: Time management, email handling, and task prioritization skills
Some might say virtual assistant is the best-paying remote job without experience. As remote work expands, virtual assistant roles are becoming more lucrative. “Companies investing in SaaS [software as a service] platforms are hiring customer assistance teams to guide users,” says Stephen Greet, co-founder and CEO of BeamJobs.
8. Freelance writer or editor
Average salary: $40,000–$80,000+
Typical requirements: Writing skills; a portfolio of samples can boost your chances
Freelancers can set their rates and scale their income as they gain clients. “In my two decades in e-commerce, I've seen many break into tech fields like digital marketing, SEO, or content writing, which offer competitive salaries and do not always demand formal experience, but rather a portfolio of skills and demonstrated understanding of the industry,” says Steve Pogson, e-commerce growth specialist and founder of First Pier.
9. Bartender
Average salary: $25,000–$60,000+ (including tips)
Typical requirements: Bartending certification (optional) and good customer service skills
Strong interpersonal skills are essential for bartenders, who interact with customers, take orders, and create a welcoming atmosphere. Tips can significantly boost income, especially in high-traffic venues. While a bartending certification can be helpful, it’s not always required, as many establishments provide on-the-job training.
10. Social media manager
Average salary: $50,000–$70,000+
Typical requirements: Creativity, knowledge of social platforms, and content creation skills
With businesses increasingly relying on social media for marketing, this role is a lucrative opportunity for beginners with a knack for digital trends. “With minimal experience, but a good grasp of platforms like TikTok or Instagram, candidates can secure freelance or entry-level positions,” Greet says. “Companies value content creators who understand trends and can grow their online presence.”
Tips for getting high-paying jobs without experience
Breaking into high-paying jobs without a degree or experience requires moves that will help you stand out.
- Leverage transferable skills. Identify skills from school, volunteer work, or hobbies that align with the job you want. For example, teamwork and collaboration learned from sports, or communication skills gained from organizing events can be valuable in many roles. (Here are 16 good skills to put on a resume with no experience.)
- Invest in certifications. Short-term certifications can quickly make you eligible for certain roles. “Becoming proficient in platforms like Shopify can open doors—it's how I built my e-commerce agency, First Pier, into a success story,” Pogson says. “Employers value individuals who can demonstrate ability without traditional experience, which is achievable through self-led project portfolios or freelancing.”
- Network strategically. Attend industry meetups, connect with professionals on LinkedIn, and participate in online communities. Networking can open doors to opportunities that may not require experience but rely on trust and recommendations. “The first step is to share tidbits of your knowledge online through your social channels,” Stockwell says. “You'll soon begin to have people messaging and asking ‘How do I do this?’ questions.”
- Tailor your resume and cover letter. Even with no experience, you can highlight your enthusiasm, skills, and potential to learn. “Even without traditional experience, you have a story to tell,” Greet says. “I often advise candidates to focus on achievements outside formal jobs.”
- Start small. Freelancing, internships, or part-time roles can provide the experience you need to secure higher-paying positions later. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or TaskRabbit allow you to build skills and earn money without prior experience. These gigs can act as stepping stones to full-time roles.
- Show a willingness to learn. Employers often value enthusiasm and the ability to pick up new skills quickly over prior experience.
What to consider when pursuing no-experience jobs
While it’s tempting to focus solely on the pay, understanding the long-term potential and fit of a job can make a significant difference in your career satisfaction and success. It’s important to look at various aspects of the job that will help you grow and succeed, both professionally and financially.
Consider these factors to make the best choice when starting a new job with no prior experience:
- Growth potential: Opt for jobs with clear paths for advancement. For example, a role in sales might eventually lead to a management position.
- Company culture: Look for organizations that invest in training and development, ensuring you can build skills while working.
Remember, the key is to stay persistent, adaptable, and proactive in your job search. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but the tips above will help you find the path that works for you.