As technology evolves, so do career opportunities. Jobs that once demanded a four-year degree are now being redefined. Enter the era of new collar jobs, where specific skill sets, certifications, and hands-on training are more valuable than traditional degrees.
These jobs are bridging the gap between blue-collar and white-collar work, creating exciting paths for those eager to jumpstart their careers without years of university education.
In this article, we'll explore what new collar jobs are, their pros and cons, and provide some new collar job examples, along with their average salaries.
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What is a new collar job?
New collar jobs refer to roles that prioritize skills over formal education, especially a four-year college degree. Coined by IBM’s former CEO Ginni Rometty in 2016, the term captures the shift in hiring practices across industries that rely on tech-savvy workers. Instead of requiring a degree, these positions focus on relevant training, certifications, and hands-on experience.
This new trend has become prominent in fields like cybersecurity, healthcare technology, software development, and advanced manufacturing, which are experiencing rapid growth but often lack qualified candidates to fill these positions. Workers with the right skills can enter these fields without accumulating significant student debt.
Pros and cons of new collar jobs
Before jumping into a new collar career, weigh the benefits and challenges these jobs present. Understanding both the pros and cons will help you decide if this career path aligns with your goals and how to best prepare for long-term success.
Pros
- No four-year degree required: You can avoid the high costs of college tuition and the time commitment.
- High demand for skills: Employers are eager to hire candidates with the right expertise, offering competitive salaries and benefits.
- Career advancement opportunities: Many new collar jobs provide pathways to grow and advance within a company, either through additional certifications or on-the-job experience.
- Faster entry into the workforce: With fewer educational requirements, workers can start their careers sooner, gaining real-world experience.
Cons
- Limited career paths without further training: Some new collar workers may need ongoing education or certifications to advance in the field.
- Skills can become outdated: In tech-heavy roles, staying relevant often means constant learning as technology evolves.
- Potentially lower starting salaries: Some new collar jobs might start with lower pay compared to positions requiring a degree, although this often improves with experience.
10 new collar jobs (with average salaries)
Here’s a new collar jobs list, sourced from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), that offer solid pay without requiring a four-year degree.
1. Cybersecurity analyst
Average salary: $112,000 per year
Cybersecurity analysts are responsible for protecting an organization’s digital assets. They monitor networks for potential security threats, investigate breaches, and develop strategies to prevent future attacks.
Hands-on experience and certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) are often more valuable than a traditional degree.
“These roles are vital as they bring in expertise essential for protecting digital infrastructure efficiently and innovatively,” says Reade Taylor, founder of IT company Cyber Command. “Such positions illustrate how non-traditional pathways in IT can lead to significant business contributions.”
2. Software developer
Average salary: $109,020 per year
Software developers design and build computer programs and applications.
“In my prior role at Kairos—a facial recognition startup—I noticed how technology can reshape workforce dynamics,” says Craig J. Lewis, founder and CEO of Gig Wage. “Facial recognition technology requires a blend of traditional software skills and new collar expertise like ethical AI considerations. This highlights the hybrid skills today's workers need, which can lead to groundbreaking innovations.”
Many companies, especially in tech, prioritize experience with coding languages like Java, Python, and C++ over formal education. Bootcamps and certifications offer quick pathways into this high-paying career.
3. Cloud computing specialist
Average salary: $103,000 per year
These specialists work with cloud platforms such as AWS, Microsoft Azure, or Google Cloud to manage an organization’s cloud storage and computing needs. Cloud computing certifications (like AWS Certified Solutions Architect) are key to entering this field.
“At Net Success USA, the shift to prioritize skills-based hiring has proven beneficial,” says Neal Stein, president of Net Success. “We focus on adaptable internet experts who have practical experience and a knack for creative solutions, which is critical in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. These roles not only keep us competitive but enable business growth and client satisfaction.”
4. Data analyst
Average salary: $82,326 per year
Data analysts gather and interpret complex data to help companies make informed decisions. Skills in statistical analysis and tools like SQL, Tableau, and Python are in high demand, often more so than a formal degree.
“Within healthcare, for instance, these positions—such as EMR management, medical billing, and data analytics—are all new collar positions that are highly relevant for fostering innovation,” says Anandkumar Jeevarathinam, the hiring manager and director of digital marketing at Enable Healthcare Inc., who has 18 years of experience in healthcare technology.
5. Wind turbine technician
Average salary: $58,580 per year
Wind turbine technicians install, maintain, and repair wind turbines. This fast-growing field is part of the renewable energy sector, and on-the-job training or technical school is often all that’s required.
6. Medical coder
Average salary: $48,310 per year
Medical coders translate patient information into standardized codes used for billing and insurance purposes. Certifications such as Certified Professional Coder (CPC) or Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) are often necessary, but no four-year degree is required.
7. HVAC technician
Average salary: $55,110 per year
HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) technicians install, maintain, and repair heating and cooling systems in residential and commercial properties. A technical school or apprenticeship is typically all that’s needed to enter this field.
8. Radiologic technologist
Average salary: $65,140 per year
Radiologic technologists perform diagnostic imaging exams, such as X-rays. Many complete a two-year associate’s degree, but some positions can be obtained with certifications from accredited programs.
9. Electrician
Average salary: $60,040 per year
Electricians install and maintain electrical systems in homes, businesses, and factories. Apprenticeships and trade school programs provide the necessary training, making this a solid new collar job with good earning potential.
10. Computer support specialist
Average salary: $57,910 per year
Computer support specialists help individuals and companies troubleshoot and resolve technical problems. Certifications in IT support, such as CompTIA A+ or Microsoft Certified IT Professional, can be more important than a college degree.
The future of new collar work
Now that you know the meaning of new collar jobs, you can see how they offer a promising alternative to the traditional path of higher education. As industries evolve, more opportunities for skill-based careers will continue to emerge, particularly in tech, healthcare, and renewable energy.
“Essentially, everyone who works for us works a new collar job,” says Soumya Mahapatra, CEO of Essenvia, a MedTech RIM Platform. “We don't have any strictly tech roles, nor do we have any strictly human-facing roles. Everyone on our team needs to have some technical skills to contribute to our core products, and needs to be a strong collaborator and communicator. This is becoming increasingly common across most of the world.”
With the right training, certifications, and hands-on experience, individuals can pursue rewarding careers that offer competitive salaries and room for advancement.
If you’re considering a new career, exploring the world of new collar jobs could be your next best step. The demand for a new collar worker continues to grow, and with it, so do the opportunities for workers without a four-year degree to secure well-paying, stable employment.