Promising Career Paths for 19-Year-Olds with a High School Diploma
For many, a four-year college degree isn't essential for achieving career success. A high school diploma or its equivalent can be a stepping stone to various fulfilling and well-paying jobs. This article explores numerous career options available to 19-year-olds with a high school diploma, highlighting job duties, salary expectations, and necessary qualifications.
Transportation and Driving Careers
Bus Driver
Bus drivers play a vital role in transporting passengers along predetermined routes and schedules. To become a bus driver, a high school diploma or its equivalent is typically required. Most states mandate that bus drivers be at least 18 years old, with a minimum age of 21 for interstate driving. New hires usually undergo a few months of on-the-job training to learn the specifics of their routes and responsibilities. The median salary for bus drivers is around $50,890, and the field is expected to grow by 5.4% by 2032.
Taxi Driver
Taxi drivers provide transportation services to individuals, taking them to various destinations such as airports or across town. The job offers flexible hours, allowing for breaks and rest periods. While a formal education credential isn't always mandatory, depending on the state, taxi drivers may need to obtain a special license. The median salary for taxi drivers is $30,670, with a significant job growth projection of 20.6% by 2032.
Delivery Truck Driver
Delivery truck drivers are responsible for transporting packages from distribution centers to businesses and residences within a specific delivery area. While some employers may hire individuals without a high school diploma, preference is generally given to high school graduates. New delivery drivers typically receive on-the-job training that can last up to a month. The median salary for delivery truck drivers is $40,410, and the field is expected to grow by 11.5% by 2032.
Truck Driver
Truck drivers are the backbone of the economy, ensuring the transportation of goods across the country. Holding a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) opens doors to exploring new places while earning a competitive salary, often accompanied by bonuses and benefits. To become a truck driver, one must be at least 18 years old for intrastate driving and 21 years old for interstate driving. A valid driver’s license is required, along with passing written knowledge and skills/road tests to obtain a CDL. Furthermore, drivers must pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exam to ensure they are physically fit to operate a commercial vehicle and possess a good driving history. The average salary for truck drivers ranges from $50,000 to $80,000 or more.
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Construction and Skilled Trades
Carpenter
Carpenters are skilled professionals who construct and repair building structures and fixtures using wood and other materials. After obtaining a high school diploma, most carpenters participate in an apprenticeship program. These programs involve technical training in areas such as basic carpentry and blueprint reading. Carpenters earn a median salary of $51,390, and the job market is expected to grow by 0.9% by 2032.
Construction Worker
Construction workers engage in various tasks on construction projects, often working in teams. Their responsibilities include erecting scaffolding, loading and unloading building materials, installing foundations, and operating heavy machinery. Formal education is not always required, as construction workers typically receive on-the-job training. The median salary for construction workers is $40,750, with a projected job growth of 4.4% by 2032.
Plumber
Plumbers are essential workers who install, repair, and maintain the systems that carry water, gas, and waste in buildings. Their tasks include fixing leaks, unclogging drains, and installing fixtures while ensuring plumbing systems meet safety codes. A high school diploma or equivalent is required, followed by a paid apprenticeship lasting four to five years. Most states mandate that plumbers be licensed. Plumbers can earn an average salary ranging from $50,000 to $95,000.
Electrician
Electricians install and repair electrical systems in various settings, including homes, schools, and businesses. A high school diploma or equivalent is necessary to begin a career as an electrician. Individuals can then attend a technical school or participate in an apprenticeship program, which may take up to five years. Most states require electricians to be licensed. The median salary for electricians is $60,240, and the job market is expected to grow by 6.4% by 2032. Average salaries range from $45,000-$90,000.
Solar Photovoltaic Installer
Solar photovoltaic (PV) installers assemble solar panels on rooftops, converting solar power into electricity. A high school diploma is usually the primary requirement, although some workers may take classes at community colleges or technical schools. These installers typically undergo a one-year training period after being hired. Depending on the state, a license may also be necessary. The median salary for solar photovoltaic installers is $45,230, and the field is projected to experience a substantial growth of 22.3% by 2032.
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HVAC Technician
HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) technicians are vital for maintaining comfortable environments in buildings. A high school diploma or GED is typically required. Many HVAC technicians attend vocational or technical school programs to learn about heating and cooling systems, refrigeration, electrical systems, and safety practices. Some technicians gain experience through apprenticeships or entry-level positions, working under experienced HVAC professionals. Average salaries range from $45,000-$75,000.
Ironworker
An ironworker is a skilled construction professional who installs and reinforces iron and steel in buildings, bridges, and other structures. Ironworkers typically need a combination of education, hands-on training, and physical skills. A high school diploma or GED is usually required, and most ironworkers learn through a union or non-union apprenticeship program, which typically lasts three to four years. Apprenticeships combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction in welding, rigging, blueprint reading, and safety procedures. The average salary is $61,940.
Healthcare Support
Optician
Opticians specialize in fitting and dispensing eyeglasses and contact lenses. A bachelor's degree is not required, as most aspiring opticians receive on-the-job training. Some states may require opticians to be certified in eyeglass or contact lens dispensing by passing exams. The median salary for opticians is $39,610, with a projected job growth of 2.7% by 2032.
Pharmacy Technician
Pharmacy technicians assist pharmacists and other medical professionals by filling prescriptions and communicating with customers about medications. After obtaining a high school degree or equivalent, a pharmacy technician may learn the role through on-the-job training. The median salary for pharmacy technicians is $37,790, and the field is expected to grow by 5.6% by 2032.
Hearing Aid Specialist
Hearing aid specialists assist individuals with hearing loss by fitting, selecting, and maintaining hearing aids. To become a hearing aid specialist, one can either obtain a degree in hearing instrument fitting and dispensing or receive on-the-job training. The median salary for hearing aid specialists is $59,020, and the field is projected to grow by 14.5% by 2032.
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Community Health Worker
Community health workers connect individuals with social services and health services providers. They identify health-related issues affecting the people they serve and share that data with service providers. A high school diploma and some on-the-job training are typically sufficient to become a community health worker. Depending on the employer, certification may be required. The median salary for community health workers is $46,190, with a projected job growth of 14.1% by 2032.
Other Career Options
Security Guard
Security guards protect people, property, and assets by monitoring and patrolling designated areas to prevent theft or unauthorized access. Most security guard positions offer on-the-job training, providing an accessible entry point into the workforce without extensive formal education. The median salary for security guards is $34,750, but the job market is expected to decline by 1.3% by 2032.
Choreographer
Choreographers create and direct original dance movements and routines for performances and productions. While a high school diploma or equivalent is generally expected, it's not always mandatory. Many choreographers begin their careers as dancers and develop their skills over several years. The median salary for choreographers is $50,990, and the field is expected to grow by 5% by 2032.
Maintenance and Repair Worker
Maintenance and repair workers maintain and repair machines, mechanical equipment, and buildings. A high school diploma or equivalent and practical on-the-job training are typically required. Some states may also require licensure. The median salary for maintenance and repair workers is $44,980, and the job market is projected to grow by 3.6% by 2032.
Flight Attendant
Flight attendants ensure the safety, security, and comfort of airline passengers. Most airlines require flight attendants to have at least a high school diploma or GED certificate, as well as customer service experience. The median salary for flight attendants is $63,760, and the field is projected to grow by 11.4% by 2032.
Real Estate Agent
Real estate agents assist clients in buying and selling properties. Individuals must be at least 18 or 19 years old (depending on the state) and possess a high school diploma or GED. Many states mandate the completion of pre-licensing courses covering real estate principles, contracts, property management, and laws. Passing the state’s real estate licensing exam is also required. Real estate agents can earn an average salary ranging from $40,000-$100,000+.
Insurance Agent
An insurance agent helps individuals, families, and businesses choose and purchase insurance policies. At a minimum, a high school diploma or GED is required. Insurance agents must be licensed in the state where they plan to sell insurance. Most states require insurance agents to complete continuing education periodically to maintain their license and stay current on industry regulations. The average salary is $57,000.
Postal Service Worker
A high school diploma or GED is typically required, and you must be at least 18 years old. Many positions require a valid driver’s license, especially for routes that use postal vehicles. Applicants usually take a written exam (such as the USPS Postal Exam) that tests skills in areas like memory, problem-solving, and attention to detail.
Police Officer
Most police departments require at least a high school diploma or GED. Applicants must pass a physical fitness test to ensure they can handle the demands of the job, and they must undergo medical evaluations and psychological assessments to ensure they are fit for duty. Most new officers attend a police academy, where they receive training in law enforcement procedures, firearms, self-defense, emergency response, and community policing. Candidates usually must be at least 21 years old, though some departments allow applicants as young as 18 with special programs.
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