Earning $35 an hour — roughly $72,800 a year — is more achievable than most people realize, and many of these roles don't require a four-year degree. Data from FinanceBuzz highlights strong demand across trades, tech, and public safety for workers commanding this pay tier. Whether you're exploring remote customer service roles or hands-on careers in construction and engineering, the options are wider than you'd expect. Ready to explore?
Quick Answer
Many jobs pay $35 an hour (~$72,800/year), including roles in skilled trades, tech, and public safety. Examples span construction, engineering, and remote customer service positions. Many don't require a four-year degree. Strong demand exists across these sectors, making this pay tier more accessible than most job seekers expect.
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Summary Table
| Item Name | Pay Range | Best For | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air Traffic Controller | $65–$75/hr ($135K+ median) | Detail-oriented people who thrive under pressure | Visit Site |
| Commercial Pilot | $50–$100+/hr ($100K+ top earners) | Aviation enthusiasts seeking high-paying careers | Visit Site |
| Elevator Installer and Repairer | $42–$55/hr ($87K–$100K range) | Trade workers who want strong union wages | Visit Site |
| Software Developer | $50–$80/hr ($110K+ median) | Tech-minded workers with coding skills | Visit Site |
| Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanic | $35–$50/hr ($70K–$95K range) | Mechanical workers in the aviation industry | Visit Site |
| Detective and Criminal Investigator | $37–$55/hr ($80K–$110K range) | Law enforcement professionals seeking advancement | Visit Site |
| Radiation Therapist | $42–$55/hr ($87K–$110K range) | Healthcare workers in oncology settings | Visit Site |
| Locomotive Engineer | $35–$50/hr ($75K–$100K range) | Workers seeking stable rail industry careers | Visit Site |
| Stationary Engineer and Boiler Operator | $35–$48/hr ($72K–$95K range) | Skilled tradespeople in facility operations | Visit Site |
| Nuclear Technician | $38–$52/hr ($80K–$105K range) | Science-focused workers in energy sectors | See details |
| Power Plant Operator or Technician | $35–$50/hr ($72K–$100K range) | Technical workers in energy infrastructure | See details |
| Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Manager | $42–$58/hr ($87K–$115K range) | Logistics professionals moving into management | Visit Site |
| Construction Manager | $40–$60/hr ($85K–$120K range) | Experienced tradespeople leading job sites | Visit Site |
| Electrician | $35–$50/hr ($60K–$100K range) | Trade apprentices and licensed journeymen | Visit Site |
14 Highest Paying $35/Hour Jobs (2026)
Below you'll find detailed information about each option, including what makes them unique and their key benefits.
1. Air Traffic Controller
Air traffic controllers are among the most reliable jobs that pay $35 an hour or more, with median annual salaries exceeding $130,000 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. These professionals direct aircraft at airports and en route centers, ensuring safe separation between flights. The role requires FAA certification and training at the FAA Academy, but no four-year degree is mandatory.
Key details:
- Median hourly wage: $60–$65/hour (well above $35 threshold)
- Entry-level controllers can reach $35+/hour within the first few years
- Federal government employment means strong benefits and job security
2. Commercial Pilot
Commercial pilots flying for regional airlines or cargo carriers frequently earn well above $35 per hour, making this a strong candidate among high-paying hourly roles. Starting pay at regional carriers typically ranges from $50–$80/hour, climbing significantly with seniority at major airlines. Pilots need an FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate and instrument rating, with most employers preferring 1,500 flight hours.
Key details:
- Regional airline first officers start around $50–$75/hour
- Major airline captains can earn $150–$300+/hour
- Flight training costs $70,000–$100,000 but ROI is strong long-term
3. Elevator Installer and Repairer
Elevator installers and repairers consistently rank among the top skilled trades for hourly pay, with median wages around $42–$50/hour — comfortably clearing the $35-an-hour benchmark. The job involves installing, maintaining, and repairing elevators, escalators, and lifts in commercial and residential buildings. Entry is typically through a union apprenticeship program lasting four to five years, requiring no college degree.
Key details:
- Median annual salary: approximately $97,000–$105,000
- Strong union representation through IUEC drives competitive wages
- Job outlook is steady due to aging building infrastructure nationwide
4. Software Developer
Software developers are among the most in-demand professionals earning well above $35 per hour, with median pay often hitting $50–$70 hourly depending on specialization and experience. Entry-level developers can reach the $35/hr threshold with 1–2 years of experience or a strong portfolio, making this one of the faster routes to hitting that wage target. Remote opportunities are widespread, and roles span web development, mobile apps, and enterprise software.
Key facts:
- Median annual salary: ~$120,000–$130,000 (Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- In-demand skills: Python, JavaScript, cloud platforms, and APIs
- Bootcamp graduates can reach $35/hr faster than traditional degree routes
5. Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanic
Aircraft and avionics mechanics are a strong fit for anyone researching jobs that pay $35 an hour, with average wages ranging from $35 to $50 hourly based on certification and employer. These technicians inspect, repair, and maintain aircraft systems and electronic navigation equipment. FAA certification (A&P license) is required rather than a traditional college degree, and training programs typically take 18–24 months at an aviation maintenance school.
Notable perks:
- Median annual salary: ~$75,000–$95,000 depending on sector (airline vs. general aviation)
- Airlines and defense contractors often add shift differentials and travel benefits
6. Detective and Criminal Investigator
Detectives and criminal investigators are a strong example of jobs that pay $35 an hour, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics reporting a median wage of around $42–$45 per hour for experienced investigators. This career involves gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and solving crimes at the local, state, or federal level. Entry typically requires prior law enforcement experience plus specialized training.
Key facts:
- Median annual salary: $87,000–$95,000 depending on agency and location
- Federal investigators (FBI, DEA) often earn significantly more
- Strong job stability due to consistent public safety funding
7. Radiation Therapist
Radiation therapists consistently land among the highest-earning roles in healthcare that hit the $35/hour threshold — the median pay sits closer to $45–$50 per hour, making this one of the better-compensated clinical positions available without a full medical degree. They administer radiation treatments to cancer patients under physician supervision, requiring an associate's or bachelor's degree in radiation therapy plus licensure. Demand is growing as cancer treatment technology expands.
Notable perks:
- Median annual salary: ~$95,000–$105,000
- Hospital, oncology clinic, and outpatient center settings available
- Strong job outlook driven by aging population and cancer treatment demand
8. Locomotive Engineer
Locomotive engineers operate freight and passenger trains and reliably clear the $35-per-hour mark — median hourly wages typically fall between $35 and $50 depending on the railroad company and route type. This role requires on-the-job training through the railroad rather than a traditional college degree, making it one of the more accessible high-wage positions on this list. Union membership through organizations like BLET often secures strong pay, benefits, and overtime opportunities.
What you get:
- Median annual salary: $72,000–$100,000+
- Paid training provided by most major rail carriers
- Overtime pay common, especially on freight routes
9. Stationary Engineer and Boiler Operator
Stationary engineers and boiler operators are among the skilled trades positions that consistently pay around $35 an hour, making this a strong career target for those seeking solid blue-collar wages. These professionals manage heating, cooling, and power systems in large buildings like hospitals, factories, and universities. Median pay sits around $65,000–$75,000 annually, with experienced operators in industrial settings earning well above that range.
Why it qualifies:
- Median hourly wage: $32–$40/hr depending on sector and location
- Requires a state-issued license, not a four-year degree
- Strong demand in manufacturing, healthcare, and government facilities
10. Nuclear Technician
Nuclear technicians represent one of the higher-paying technical roles accessible without a full engineering degree, routinely landing in the $35-per-hour and above category. They assist nuclear engineers and physicists by operating equipment, monitoring radiation levels, and maintaining safety compliance at power plants or research facilities. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports median annual wages near $84,000, placing typical hourly rates well above the $35 benchmark.
Key details:
- Median hourly rate: approximately $40–$45/hr
- Entry typically requires an associate degree in nuclear technology
- Most positions concentrated at nuclear power plants and federal facilities
11. Power Plant Operator or Technician
Power plant operators control the machinery that generates electricity, and their specialized skills push compensation firmly into the $35-an-hour range for even mid-level positions. Unlike nuclear technicians, these roles cover coal, natural gas, hydroelectric, and renewable energy facilities, broadening the job market considerably. Median pay hovers around $40/hr, with overtime common due to the 24/7 nature of plant operations — a significant income boost over base wages.
Notable perks:
- Median annual salary: $80,000–$90,000 with frequent overtime
- On-the-job training often replaces formal degree requirements
- Growing demand tied to grid modernization and renewable energy expansion
12. Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Manager
Transportation, storage, and distribution managers oversee the movement and warehousing of goods, and many earn well above $35 an hour given the operational complexity they handle. These roles exist across retail, manufacturing, and logistics sectors, with median annual salaries often exceeding $76,000. Strong organizational skills and supply chain knowledge are typically required.
What to know:
- Median pay: $38–$45/hour depending on industry and company size
- Common employers: Amazon, UPS, large retailers, and third-party logistics firms
- A bachelor's degree in logistics or business is typical, though experience can substitute
13. Construction Manager
Construction managers plan, coordinate, and supervise building projects from groundbreaking to completion, making this one of the more accessible $35+/hour careers for those without a four-year degree. Many enter through years of hands-on trade work before stepping into management. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports median pay around $49/hour for experienced managers in large markets.
Key details:
- Median hourly wage: $47–$55/hour at senior levels
- High demand driven by infrastructure spending and housing shortages
- Certifications like CCM (Certified Construction Manager) can boost earning potential
14. Electrician
Licensed electricians are among the most reliable trades for hitting $35 an hour or more, with journeyman and master electricians frequently earning $36–$50/hour depending on location and specialization. The path in involves a 4–5 year apprenticeship, which pays while you learn — no college debt required. Demand remains strong as EV infrastructure, solar installations, and new construction drive consistent work.
Earning factors:
- Apprentice start: ~$18–$22/hour; journeyman: $35–$50/hour; master: $50+/hour
- Union electricians often receive higher wages plus benefits and pension
Final Words
Whether you prefer working with your hands, helping others, or building technical skills, these 14 careers prove a $35-an-hour income is well within reach. Pick the path that matches your strengths and start working toward it today.