What Jobs Can I Get With a GED in 2024

Would you like to earn more money doing something you love? A GED can help you get a job you’re passionate about and provide more financial stability. With a GED, you can earn an average of $10,000 more per year and join an industry with terrific growth potential. There are currently 40 million Americans without a high school education. Getting your GED will make you a stand-out candidate and fast-track your path to success.

In this article, we will discuss a variety of career fields you can pursue with your GED. No matter your area of interest or level of experience, your GED credential can open doors for countless opportunities. We’ve organized potential positions by industry categories and noted average salary, general expectations, and advancement possibilities for each. Looking for an entry-level job with room to grow? Hoping to land a remote or at-home position? Are you passionate about healthcare or hope to work for the government? We’ve got you covered. Read on to get the valuable information you need to accomplish your career goals. You’ll learn everything about GED jobs, salaries, and all the things you can do with a GED.

Healthcare

Jobs in healthcare are not only on the rise; individuals working in this field have the added benefit of knowing they are providing valuable care for others. A GED can open the door to entry-level medical roles and afford unlimited earning potential with additional training and certification. Let’s explore a few.

Certified Nursing Assistant

Nursing assistants are essential to the healthcare system. They support registered nurses and licensed practical nurses in the care of patients. They assist with daily activities such as feeding and bathing while monitoring vital signs and reporting any changes to the nursing staff. Nursing assistants must be caring, compassionate, and dedicated to their work. Qualified nursing assistants are in demand, and the need is expected to grow by 5-7% in the next ten years. Most nursing assistants earn between $30,000 to $35,000 per year, but salary may vary based on location, certification, and experience.

How to Get Started:

• Get a GED.
• Complete a state-approved training program.
• Pass a skills-based exam to earn certification.

Home Health Aide

The need for home health aides is booming! These professionals work to provide daily support to patients requiring follow-up care and assistance in their homes. Home health aides help with mobility, administer medications, and improve the quality of life for those they serve. Home health aides earn around $25,000 to $30,000 annually, and the need for more skilled professionals is well above the national average at 11% or higher, depending on certification and location.

How to Get Started:

• Get a GED.
• Some states require certification, which involves passing a competency exam. Formal training can be completed at a vocational school or community college.

Phlebotomist

Phlebotomists are essential to the healthcare industry. They draw blood, label and store samples, and perform tasks crucial for medical diagnosis, blood and plasma donation, and research. Phlebotomists must follow strict safety standards and show great attention to detail. They work in clinics, labs, and hospitals, earning between $30,000 to $40,000 per year. The need for phlebotomists is rising, with an above-average employment rate of 11%.

How to Get Started:

• Get a GED.
• Enroll in a phlebotomy training program.
• Consider certification. While certification isn't always required, it can improve job opportunities and increase income.
• In some states, phlebotomists are required to obtain a license before practicing.

View more jobs in Healthcare. Keep in mind that these positions may require additional training and/or certification.

Government/Public Service

Government employees and public service workers are key to thriving communities and economies. Support professionals in government and public service perform a wide variety of jobs to ensure the safety and welfare of all citizens. GED graduates working in government and public service roles enjoy financial stability as well as pride in knowing their efforts contribute to a better society. Take a deeper look at these opportunities.

Corrections Officer

Corrections officers work to keep order and security within correctional facilities. These professionals oversee inmates, enforce rules, and help to ensure the safety of inmates and staff. Individuals working in correction need solid communication skills, strong ethical standards, and the ability to act quickly. They must respect the law and have the desire to promote order and general welfare. The expected salary for a corrections officer can vary significantly based on specific location and the type of institution. Most can expect a pay range of $35,000 to $60,000 annually.

How to Get Started:

• Get a GED.
• Pass a background check.
• Complete a training program.

Postal Worker

Through rain, sleet, and snow, postal workers have the important task of ensuring communication within our communities, nation, and world runs smoothly and efficiently. With an average salary of $40,000 to $60,000 annually, postal workers enjoy a stable income, consistent hiring trends, and confidence in knowing their work is essential. Individuals with a strong work ethic, attention to detail and safety, as well as solid customer service skills, are vital to the US Postal Service and the people served.

How to Get Started:

• Get a GED.
• Pass the postal exam.
• Complete a background check and drug screening.
• Complete all required training.

Social and Human Services Assistant

Social and human services assistants give life-changing support to people and families in need. From housing and government assistance to essential resources and access to outreach programs, these professionals connect challenged individuals with the help and encouragement needed to be self-sufficient. The demand for social and human services assistants is growing at an above-average rate of 11% nationally. With a median salary of $36,000 annually, workers in this role can enjoy financial security while helping others get the assistance they need to provide for their families.

How to Get Started:

• Get a GED.
• Receive on-the-job training.
• Consider an advanced degree to strengthen income and career opportunities.

View more jobs in Government. Keep in mind that these positions may require additional training and/or certification.

Office/Administrative

A GED can lay a terrific foundation for an office or administrative position. Candidates with strong writing, communication, and computer skills enjoy various well-paying business-related roles across a number of industries. Consider the following possibilities.

Administrative Assistant

With an earning potential of $40,000-$50,000 annually, administrative assistants help to ensure a business runs smoothly. They support managers and co-workers by coordinating meetings, keeping schedules, planning events, organizing and protecting confidential documents, and overseeing daily activities to facilitate the company's or institution's success. The demand for these professionals is steady because administrative assistants are needed in many fields. GED graduates with solid time management, communication, and organizational skills would succeed significantly in this role.

How to Get Started:

• Get a GED.
• Receive internal training in office policy and industry specifics.
• Consider additional management or computer training to improve job prospects.

Bank Teller

Bank Tellers are the first face of any financial institution. These customer service-driven individuals exercise care and professionalism as they assist with various financial transactions. Tellers help bank customers make deposits, withdraw cash, and monitor checking and savings account balances. On average, bank tellers earn between $25,000 and $35,000. Strong math skills and experience handling money are encouraged. The ability to work in a fast-paced environment is also a plus. Wise banking professionals stay current on advances in financial technology while demonstrating outstanding performance to ensure job stability and growth.

How to Get Started:

• Get a GED.
• Ace on-the-job training.
• Take additional courses to adjust to updates and advances.

Receptionist and Information Clerk

Do you enjoy talking to people and connecting them to important information and services? If so, your GED can prepare you for a job as a receptionist or information clerk. Often the initial point of contact for customers and clients, professionals in this role are vital to maintaining the reputation of an organization or business. This may include greeting guests, answering questions, scheduling appointments, and connecting clients to additional services. With an average salary of $25,000 to $40,000 per year, stable career growth, and opportunities across many fields, receptionists and information clerks have a bright future.

How to Get Started:

• Get a GED.
• Consider additional training or suggested certifications.

View more jobs in Office/Administration. Keep in mind that these positions may require additional training and/or certification.

Sales Support

Sales support is essential to commerce and economic development. Hardworking, motivated individuals with an entrepreneurial spirit may find an inspiring career in sales and sales support. As communication technology advances, many sales opportunities allow for at-home or remote work. Spanning many fields, the need for sales professionals is both consistent and financially rewarding. Check out these sales-related careers.

Insurance Sales Agent

A strong growth rate of 4%-7% and a median salary above $50,000 make insurance sales opportunities an excellent option for GED graduates. Insurance sales agents provide valuable guidance and recommendations for individuals and businesses needing home, auto, or corporate insurance. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are a must for these roles. As individuals obtain a greater understanding of insurance products, coverages, and regulations, their job stability and salary only stand to improve and increase.

How to Get Started:

• Get a GED.
• Obtain required state licenses.

Manufacturing Sales Representative

Another growing area of commerce is manufacturing sales. The need for wholesale and manufacturing sales representatives is set to grow by 7% in the next five to ten years, with representatives earning upwards of $60,000. Manufacturing sales reps help to link supply and demand by promoting and selling a wide range of products. Communication and negotiation skills are highly valued in this role. While advanced sales positions may require advanced education, interested candidates with a GED can pursue a variety of entry-level positions with on-the-job training.

How to Get Started:

• Get a GED.
• Enroll in internal professional development and training opportunities.
• Network with other manufacturing sales professionals and organizations.

Retail Sales Associate

The retail market is an excellent business area for GED graduates to build valuable sales skills. Open opportunities are abundant with in-person and online positions available anywhere goods are bought and sold. Annual salaries hover around $30,000 annually, with a steady growth rate for future positions. Individuals hoping to work in this field should focus on general communication skills, gain knowledge of the products and services they will promote, and develop a deep commitment to customer service.

How to Get Started:

• Get a GED.
• Ask for additional training and leadership opportunities.
• Research current market trends.
• Network with other retail professionals.

View more jobs in Sales Support. Keep in mind that these positions may require additional training and/or certification.

Transportation

Opportunities for GED graduates within the transportation industry are abundant. Transit services are crucial to a thriving society and economy, often called the backbone of national and global connections. Including the movement of people, goods, services, and information, transportation roles span roadways and railways and airports and harbors. Take a look at just a few possible positions.

Truck Driver

Supply chains and economies could not keep moving without the trucking industry. From operating heavy vehicles like tractor-trailers and 18-wheelers to driving moving vans and delivery trucks, these valuable professionals ensure that people and goods arrive safely and on time. GED graduates who hope to work outside of a typical office environment with good communication skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to safety make excellent candidates for opportunities in trucking. The trucking industry offers an attractive financial package with an average salary range of $40,000 to $70,000 based on specific vehicles, locations, and routes. The expected need for truck drivers is expected to grow by 5%-7% over the next decade, making trucking a flourishing occupation.

How to Get Started:

• Get a GED.
• Obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
• Consider truck-driving school or receive on-the-job training.
• Adhere to local, state, and national regulations for professional standards.

Freight Forwarder

A freight forwarder performs many functions in moving goods across borders from producers to consumers. In coordination with shipping companies and customs officials, freight forwarders use several modes of transportation to move products from place to place. Freight professionals must be skilled in logistics, understand and adhere to strict customs standards, and comply with all laws and insurance requirements. Communication, time management, and organizational skills are top qualities for individuals hoping to work in the freight industry. Depending on location, company size, and the types of cargo exchanged, freight workers stand to earn between $40,000 to $70,000 per year in an industry growing faster than average at 8%-10% in the next ten years.

How to Get Started:

• Get a GED.
• Receive relevant training in supply chain and international trade.
• Consider internships and entry-level positions to gain skills.
• Some advanced roles value an associate's or bachelor’s degree in a supporting field.

Air Traffic Controller

As aircraft navigate runways, airports, and the skies above, air traffic controllers are on the job to maintain the safety of pilots, crew, passengers, and ground personnel. These highly trained professionals manage traffic flow and work to prevent tragic collisions. Fast-paced, often stressful air traffic control towers need individuals with above-average problem-solving skills, logistical expertise, and flexibility. GED graduates should expect the need for intense training and additional education to work in this field. But with an average salary of $120,000 to $130,000 and a steady market for this role, the continued education investment is well worth it.

How to Get Started:

• Get a GED.
• Enter a training program.
• Complete skill simulations and aviation competency exams with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
• Consider an advanced degree.

View more jobs in Transportation. Keep in mind that these positions may require additional training and/or certification.

Hospitality/Food and Beverage

The quick-moving hospitality industry offers a wide range of exciting career opportunities post-GED. From local entertainment and dining establishments to tourist-driven vacation destinations, the need for welcoming, customer service-driven professionals is vital. Hospitality income is essential to both small towns and large, urban economies. Here are just a few careers to consider in this growing industry.

Food and Beverage Manager

Food and Beverage Managers are the heart of the hospitality industry. They can work in restaurants, hotels, cruise ships, catering companies, etc. F&B managers coordinate staff, manage schedules, create relationships with vendors, and oversee the quality of food and beverages for all guests. These professionals work to keep safety and experience standards high to maintain customer satisfaction and create a loyal following of visitors. GED graduates entering the busy world of food and beverage need to have a high level of patience, attention to detail, and a desire to provide outstanding customer service. Communication skills and organization and leadership skills are also vital to this role. The annual salary of a food and beverage manager can range from $40,000 to $80,000 or more, with the need for this role growing by an impressive 10% over the next decade.

How to Get Started:

• Get a GED.
• Gain experience through entry-level positions in serving, hosting, bartending, and food prep and presentation.
• Consider a degree in hospitality management, culinary arts, or a related field.

Concierge

With a higher-than-average growth rate, the demand for concierges is set to increase by more than 11% in the next five to ten years. These knowledgeable and resourceful professionals perform various services in hotels, resorts, and high-end residential facilities. You may also find them coordinating conferences and trade shows. Tasked with creating an outstanding guest, resident, or participant experience, the daily activities of a concierge can include finding and booking dinner reservations, arranging valet and car services, planning and coordinating entertainment experiences, and providing local recommendations for services. Individuals seeking concierge positions should have innate patience, the desire to create quality customer experiences, and the ability to network with many vendors. Communication, critical thinking, and creative skills are assets in this role. The average annual salary for a concierge is around $35,000 to $40,000, depending on facility, location, and experience level.

How to Get Started:

• Get a GED.
• Gain experience with a variety of entry-level hospitality positions.
• Consider a degree in tourism to improve salary and advancement opportunities.

Flight Attendant

The aviation industry thrives on both safety and hospitality. Flight attendants must uphold each of these priorities. From a hospitality perspective, they work to improve passenger comfort, serve food and beverages, facilitate entertainment services, and answer travel questions. Safety procedures are also top of mind for flight attendants as they explain emergency plans, address passenger medical needs, and follow strict security protocols. Their dedication to excellent customer service and ability to stay calm under pressure make these professionals essential to the travel and airline industries. The future for fight attendants is bright! The need for these important professionals is set to increase by over 11% in the next few years and boasts an impressive earning potential of $60,000 to $65,000 annually. GED graduates with a spirit of adventure and a desire to help others may find in-flight hospitality an exciting career path.

How to Get Started:

• Get a GED.
• Obtain legal authorization to work in all states and countries of travel.
• Complete a comprehensive training program with the airline of employment under the direction of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
• Note: Bilingual candidates are in high demand and may have increased job prospects and pay.

View more jobs in Hospitality/Food and Beverage. Keep in mind that these positions may require additional training and/or certification.

Trade Expertise

Trade jobs are on the rise! Spanning a wide range of industries and specialties, the need for tradespeople has exploded as urban and technological development reaches unprecedented levels. Highly competitive salaries and unmatched benefits accompany this growth. Upon obtaining a GED, trade candidates stand to not only gain financial rewards but also the confidence in knowing their expertise is contributing to essential services in their communities. Let’s explore a few popular trades.

Welder

Skilled welders work in a number of industries. Their expertise is needed in manufacturing, construction, automotive, and engineering projects. Welders harness the power of heat and metal to create and secure buildings, machines, and vehicles used every day. Welding is a promising career path for individuals who want to learn and apply an exact and desired skill upon receiving a GED. The average salary varies by specialization, experience, and location but averages from $40,000 to $50,000 per year.

How to Get Started:

• Get a GED.
• Complete a hands-on vocational training program with a community college or technical school.
• Take on an apprenticeship for on-the-job training and skills development.
• Consider a specialty in a specific welding technique.
• Obtain certification from a national organization such as the American Welding Society (AWS) to improve placement and salary.

Millwright

Factories, construction sites, and power plants all rely on the skills and contributions of a millwright. Millwrights install, maintain, and repair heavy machinery, industrial devices, and manufacturing equipment. They must be precise and detailed in applying their skills as the safety and proper function of essential systems rest in their hands. Individuals interested in this particular trade must be keen problem solvers, develop the ability to read blueprints and technical instructions and have a strong commitment to excellence in their craft. With a salary range of $50,000 to $80,000 per year and a solid growth rate of 5%-7%, the work of a millwright promises to be increasingly rewarding.

How to Get Started:

• Get a GED.
• Pursue an apprenticeship program, vocational training, or an associate degree in industrial maintenance or mechanical engineering.

Electrician

Electricians set up, maintain, and repair electrical systems for homes and businesses. Safety codes and regulations are top priorities for electricians as they work to troubleshoot electrical problems, remove hazards, or install energy-efficient equipment. GED graduates with an eye for detail, the ability to follow technical manuals, and remedy potential issues and risks are perfect candidates for a career in the electrical industry. Proper electrical work is crucial to creating and maintaining safe, efficient spaces for people to live and work. The national average salary for an electrician in the United States is around $45,000 to $60,000 annually, with a 5%-7% growth rate.

How to Get Started:

• Get a GED.
• Complete an electrician apprenticeship program.
• Acquire the proper electrician license in your state.
• Consider a specialty with additional training in a specific area (industrial, residential, or commercial).
• Earn a master electrician license to obtain higher pay and leadership positions.

View more jobs in Construction and Manufacturing. Keep in mind that these positions may require additional training and/or certification.

What are you waiting for?

Doors will open when you get a GED! You don’t have to get or stay in a job you dislike. Employers in many exciting fields are waiting to invest in someone with your unique skill set and work ethic. With passion and drive, your post-GED career can be financially and personally rewarding. Go for it!

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Frequently Asked Questions

• Does having a GED make it harder to get a job?

Having a GED makes it much easier! In fact, close to 75% of employment opportunities require a GED or high school diploma.

• What can I do in life with a GED?

Anything you want! GED graduates have the same rights, privileges, and opportunities as traditional high school graduates. Higher education, vocational training, and a great new job is waiting for you.

• Can I be successful with a GED?

Of course! In addition to providing financial stability, earning a GED can put you on a path toward a career you love! Many successful people in countless fields earned their GED credential. You can too!

• What is the highest-paying job with a GED?

GED graduates earn $10-15k more per year than those without a high school education. Currently, opportunities in transportation and trade industries are booming with well-paying and fulfilling opportunities for those with a GED.

• Can you go to college with a GED?

You sure can! 96% of all colleges and universities accept the GED in the same way they would a traditional high school diploma. Life after the GED can be exciting and rewarding!