In 2018, IBM popularized the term “new-collar jobs” to describe roles that prioritize skills, certifications, and practical experience over traditional four-year degrees. These careers, such as sales engineers or marketing managers, often demand specialized abilities that are developed through on-the-job training or targeted certifications rather than formal academic pathways. Notably, many of these positions offer competitive salaries, challenging the conventional notion that higher education is the only route to financial success.
Recently, Resume Genius published an insightful report analyzing the most promising high-paying new-collar jobs projected for 2025. The analysis drew from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data, automation risk assessments from tools like “Will Robots Take My Job?”, and current job listings on platforms like Indeed. The focus was on roles that provide median wages of at least $100,000, do not require a four-year college degree, offer remote or hybrid work options, and have a relatively low probability of automation by AI.
Note: For a comprehensive list of these roles, see the full report linked at the end of this article.
Eva Chan, a career expert at Resume Genius, emphasizes that “new-collar roles challenge the traditional belief that a college degree is the only pathway to success.” She explains that by demonstrating practical skills, building a portfolio, or cultivating strong professional referrals, individuals can forge rewarding, well-compensated careers without accumulating significant student debt or spending years in higher education.
While securing a new-collar position may differ from landing a typical white-collar job-which often requires a bachelor’s degree-or a blue-collar role involving physical labor and specialized skills, candidates can enhance their chances of success by earning relevant certifications, freelancing to develop a robust portfolio, and actively networking within their industry.
Top 10 High-Paying New-Collar Careers for 2025
1. Marketing Manager
- Average annual salary: $159,660
- Projected job growth (2023-2033): 8%
- Automation risk: 39%
2. Human Resources Director
- Average annual salary: $140,030
- Projected job growth (2023-2033): 6%
- Automation risk: 24%
3. Sales Director
- Average annual salary: $138,060
- Projected job growth (2023-2033): 6%
- Automation risk: 33%
4. Network Infrastructure Architect
- Average annual salary: $130,390
- Projected job growth (2023-2033): 13%
- Automation risk: 39%
5. Operations and Quality Control Manager
- Average annual salary: $129,330
- Projected job growth (2023-2033): 6%
- Automation risk: 36%
6. Cybersecurity Analyst
- Average annual salary: $124,910
- Projected job growth (2023-2033): 33%
- Automation risk: 49%
7. Technical Sales Engineer
- Average annual salary: $121,520
- Projected job growth (2023-2033): 6%
- Automation risk: 38%
8. Healthcare Product and Service Manager
- Average annual salary: $117,960
- Projected job growth (2023-2033): 29%
- Automation risk: 26%
9. Creative Director
- Average annual salary: $111,040
- Projected job growth (2023-2033): 5%
- Automation risk: 34%
10. Construction Supervisor
- Average annual salary: $106,980
- Projected job growth (2023-2033): 9%
- Automation risk: 13%
These emerging roles exemplify how skills-based careers are reshaping the job market, offering lucrative opportunities that are less susceptible to automation. As industries evolve, professionals who focus on acquiring targeted certifications, developing a strong professional portfolio, and leveraging networking will find themselves well-positioned for success in the new economy.
