Are you looking for a job in the US but don’t have a college degree? Don’t worry, there are many opportunities for you to find a rewarding career without spending years and money on higher education.
In this article, we will explore 10 of the best jobs that you can get in the US as a foreigner without a college degree, based on salary, demand and growth potential.
10 Best Jobs for Foreigner in US Without college education in 2023
1. Medical Records Technician
Average Salary: $39,426 per year.
Primary Duties: Medical records technicians are responsible for organizing and managing health information data. They use various software and systems to code and categorize patient information for insurance reimbursement, quality assessment, research and legal purposes. They also ensure the accuracy, security and confidentiality of the data.
How to Get Started: To become a medical records technician, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and a postsecondary certificate or associate degree in health information technology or a related field. You may also need to obtain a certification from a professional organization, such as the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) or the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC).
2. Wind Turbine Technician
Average Salary: $53,355 per year
Primary Duties: Wind turbine technicians install, maintain and repair wind turbines that generate electricity from wind power. They perform inspections, diagnostics, troubleshooting and preventive maintenance on various components of the turbines, such as blades, generators, gearboxes and control systems. They also follow safety procedures and regulations when working at heights and in confined spaces.
How to Get Started: To become a wind turbine technician, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and some technical training or experience in electrical or mechanical fields. You may also need to complete a certificate or associate degree program in wind energy technology or a related field. Additionally, you may need to obtain a certification from the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) or other organizations.
3. Community Health Worker
Average Salary: $48,588 per year.
Primary Duties: Community health workers provide health education, outreach and advocacy services to individuals and groups in their communities. They help people access health care services, prevent diseases, promote healthy behaviors and address social determinants of health. They also collect and report data on health issues and outcomes.
How to Get Started: To become a community health worker, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and some on-the-job training or experience in health or social services. You may also need to complete a certificate or associate degree program in community health or a related field. Depending on the state and employer, you may need to obtain a certification or license from a professional organization, such as the National Association of Community Health Workers (NACHW) or the American Public Health Association (APHA).
4. Landscaper and Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $48,285 per year
Primary Duties: Landscapers and groundskeepers perform various tasks to improve and maintain the appearance and condition of outdoor spaces, such as lawns, gardens, parks, golf courses and athletic fields. They plant, prune, mow, water, fertilize, weed and mulch plants and trees. They also install and repair irrigation systems, lighting fixtures, fences and walkways. They may also use power tools and equipment, such as trimmers, blowers, chainsaws and snowplows.
How to Get Started: To become a landscaper or groundskeeper, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and some on-the-job training or experience in landscaping or gardening. You may also need to complete a certificate or associate degree program in horticulture, landscape design or a related field. Additionally, you may need to obtain a certification or license from a state or national organization, such as the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) or the Professional Grounds Management Society (PGMS).
5. Home Health Aide
Average Salary: $53,148 per year
Primary Duties: Home health aides provide personal care and assistance to people who are elderly, disabled, ill or recovering from injuries at their homes. They help them with daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, eating
, moving, taking medications and monitoring vital signs. They also provide emotional support and companionship to their clients and report any changes in their health or behavior to their supervisors or family members.
How to Get Started: To become a home health aide, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and some on-the-job training or experience in personal care. You may also need to complete a certificate or associate degree program in home health care or a related field. Depending on the state and employer, you may need to obtain a certification or license from a professional organization, such as the National Association for Home Care and Hospice (NAHC) or the Home Care Aide Organization (HCAO).
6. Personal Care Aide
Average Salary: $53,444 per year
Primary Duties: Personal care aides provide similar services as home health aides, but they focus more on non-medical tasks, such as housekeeping, cooking, shopping, running errands and transportation. They also assist their clients with personal hygiene, grooming, dressing and mobility. They may work in private homes, residential facilities, adult day centers or hospices.
How to Get Started: To become a personal care aide, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and some on-the-job training or experience in personal care. You may also need to complete a certificate or associate degree program in personal care or a related field. Depending on the state and employer, you may need to obtain a certification or license from a professional organization, such as the National Association for Home Care and Hospice (NAHC) or the Home Care Aide Organization (HCAO).
7. Delivery Truck Driver
Average Salary: $53,355 per year
Primary Duties: Delivery truck drivers transport goods from one location to another using light or medium trucks. They load and unload the cargo, check the delivery documents, follow the best routes and traffic laws, collect payments and signatures and report any issues or delays. They may deliver various types of products, such as food, furniture, mail or packages.
How to Get Started: To become a delivery truck driver, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and some on-the-job training or experience in driving. You may also need to complete a certificate or associate degree program in truck driving or a related field. Additionally, you may need to obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL) from your state and pass a background check and drug test.
8. Electrician
Average Salary: $48,285 per year
Primary Duties: Electricians install, maintain and repair electrical systems and equipment in residential, commercial and industrial buildings. They read blueprints and technical diagrams, connect wires and circuits, test electrical components, follow safety codes and regulations and troubleshoot problems. They may also train and supervise other electricians or apprentices.
How to Get Started: To become an electrician, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and some technical training or experience in electrical work. You may also need to complete an apprenticeship program that combines classroom instruction and paid on-the-job training. Additionally, you may need to obtain a license from your state and pass an exam.
9. Coder
Average Salary: $39,426 per year
Primary Duties: Coders write and edit computer programs using various programming languages, such as Java, Python, C++ or Ruby. They create software applications, websites, games, databases and other digital products that meet the specifications and requirements of their clients or employers. They also test, debug and update their code regularly to ensure its functionality and quality.
How to Get Started: To become a coder, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and some self-taught skills or experience in coding. You may also need to complete a certificate or associate degree program in computer science, software engineering or a related field. Additionally, you may need to build a portfolio of your projects and showcase your abilities to potential employers.
10. Copywriter
Average Salary: $48,588 per year
Primary Duties: Copywriters write persuasive and engaging text for various purposes
such as advertisements, slogans, headlines, newsletters, blogs, social media posts and scripts. They also research the target audience, the product or service and the competitors to craft a compelling and effective message that persuades the readers or viewers to take action.
How to Get Started: To become a copywriter, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and some self-taught skills or experience in writing. You may also need to complete a certificate or associate degree program in copywriting, marketing, journalism or a related field. Additionally, you may need to build a portfolio of your work and showcase your creativity and writing style to potential employers.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are many jobs that you can get in the US as a foreigner without a college degree. These jobs offer decent pay, high demand and good growth potential. However, they also require some training, certification or experience to qualify and perform well. Therefore, you should do your research, explore your options and choose the career path that suits your skills, interests and goals.
10 Most Asked Questions and Answers
Here are some of the most common questions and answers about finding a job in the US as a foreigner without a college degree:
Q: How can I find a job in the US as a foreigner without a college degree?
A: There are several ways to find a job in the US as a foreigner without a college degree. Some of them are:
- Searching online job boards and websites, such as Indeed, Monster, Glassdoor or LinkedIn.
- Networking with people who work in your desired industry or company, such as friends, relatives, former colleagues or mentors.
- Applying for internships, volunteer opportunities or temporary positions that can help you gain experience and connections in your field.
- Attending job fairs, workshops or events that are related to your career interests and goals.
- Contacting employers directly by sending your resume and cover letter or making a phone call or an email.
Q: Do I need a work visa to work in the US as a foreigner without a college degree?
A: Yes, you need a work visa to work in the US as a foreigner without a college degree. However, getting a work visa can be challenging and competitive, as you need to find an employer who is willing to sponsor you and prove that there are no qualified US workers available for the position. Some of the most common types of work visas for foreigners are:
- H-1B visa: This visa is for workers who have specialized skills or knowledge in fields such as engineering, science, technology or medicine. The annual cap for this visa is 65,000 for regular applicants and 20,000 for those with advanced degrees from US institutions.
- H-2B visa: This visa is for workers who perform temporary or seasonal non-agricultural jobs, such as landscaping, hospitality, construction or entertainment. The annual cap for this visa is 66,000.
- J-1 visa: This visa is for workers who participate in exchange programs that provide cultural or educational opportunities, such as teachers, au pairs, interns or trainees. The duration and conditions of this visa vary depending on the program.
- L-1 visa: This visa is for workers who are transferred from a foreign branch or subsidiary of their employer to a US one. They must have worked for the same employer for at least one year in the past three years and have specialized knowledge or managerial skills. There is no annual cap for this visa.
Q: What are the benefits of working in the US as a foreigner without a college degree?
A: Working in the US as a foreigner without a college degree can have many benefits, such as:
- Earning higher income than in your home country
- Gaining valuable work experience and skills that can boost your resume
- Learning about American culture and society
- Improving your English language proficiency
- Expanding your professional network and contacts
- Exploring new places and opportunities
Q: What are the challenges of working in the US as a foreigner without a college degree?
A: Working in the US as a foreigner without a college degree can also have some challenges, such as:
- Facing competition from other applicants who have college degrees or more experience
- Dealing with immigration laws and procedures that can be complex and time-consuming
- Adjusting to cultural differences and expectations
- Coping with homesickness and loneliness
- Managing your finances and taxes
Q: What are some tips for succeeding in working in the US as a foreigner without a college degree?
A: Some tips for succeeding in working in the US as a foreigner without a college degree are:
- Do your research on the job market, the industry and the company before applying
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your skills, achievements and fit for the position
- Prepare for the interview by practicing common questions, dressing professionally and being confident
- Follow up with the employer by sending a thank-you note and expressing your interest
- Be flexible and adaptable to different situations and challenges
- Seek feedback and guidance from your supervisor, colleagues or mentors
- Keep learning and improving your skills and knowledge
- Network and build relationships with people who can support your career growth
Q: What are some resources for finding a job in the US as a foreigner without a college degree?
A: Some resources for finding a job in the US as a foreigner without a college degree are:
- USponsorMe: This website helps you find employers who offer visa sponsorship in the US. You can create a profile, upload your resume and browse thousands of jobs that match your skills and preferences. You can also get tips and advice on how to get hired and sponsored.
- MyVisaJobs: This website provides information and data on US employers, visa sponsors, occupations, locations and salaries. You can search for jobs by visa type, industry, state or city. You can also create a profile, upload your resume and get matched with potential employers.
- CareerOneStop: This website is sponsored by the US Department of Labor and offers various tools and resources for job seekers, such as career exploration, resume writing, interview preparation, salary information and training opportunities. You can also search for jobs by keyword, location or industry.
- USAJobs: This website is the official job site of the US federal government. You can search for jobs by keyword, location, agency or occupation. You can also create a profile, upload your resume and documents and apply online.
Q: How can I improve my chances of getting a work visa in the US as a foreigner without a college degree?
A: There is no guarantee that you will get a work visa in the US as a foreigner without a college degree, but you can improve your chances by:
- Choosing a job that is in high demand or has a shortage of qualified US workers
- Finding an employer who is willing to sponsor you and has experience in hiring foreign workers
- Applying for a visa category that suits your qualifications and goals
- Submitting a complete and accurate application with all the required documents and fees
- Responding to any requests or inquiries from the immigration authorities promptly and honestly
Q: How long can I work in the US as a foreigner without a college degree?
A: The duration of your work authorization in the US as a foreigner without a college degree depends on the type of visa you have. Some visas are valid for a specific period of time, while others are renewable or extendable. For example:
- H-1B visa: This visa is valid for up to three years and can be extended for another three years, for a maximum of six years. However, some exceptions may apply for workers who have applied for permanent residency or have certain advanced degrees.
- H-2B visa: This visa is valid for up to one year and can be extended for another year, for a maximum of three years. However, workers must return to their home country for at least three months before applying again.
- J-1 visa: This visa is valid for the duration of the exchange program, which can vary from a few weeks to several years. However, some programs may require workers to return to their home country for at least two years before applying for another visa.
- L-1 visa: This visa is valid for up to three years and can be extended for another two years, for a maximum of five years for specialized knowledge workers or seven years for managers or executives.
Q: Can I bring my family with me to the US if I work as a foreigner without a college degree?
A: Yes, you can bring your spouse and unmarried children under 21 years old with you to the US if you work as a foreigner without a college degree. However, they will need to apply for dependent visas that correspond to your visa category. For example:
- H-1B visa: Your dependents will need to apply for H-4 visas, which allow them to live and study in the US but not work.
- H-2B visa: Your dependents will need to apply for H-4 visas, which allow them to live in the US but not work or study.
- J-1 visa: Your dependents will need to apply for J-2 visas, which allow them to live, study and work (with authorization) in the US.
- L-1 visa: Your dependents will need to apply for L-2 visas, which allow them to live, study and work (with authorization) in the US.
Q: Can I change my job or employer in the US if I work as a foreigner without a college degree?
A: It depends on the type of visa you have. Some visas are tied to a specific employer or job