The Highest Paying Jobs in Maine That Only Require a High School Diploma

It was only a few years ago that it was commonplace to urge nearly all high school seniors to apply for colleges or trade schools.

Actually, most kids were specifically pushed into applying for 4-year colleges, even if they had no idea what they wanted to do with their lives.  More recently, the focus shifted from 4-year colleges and universities to trade schools.  This move made sense for kids who were more interested in a trade, like HVAC or information technology, than they were in studying history or finance.

However, it is important to remember that, even in 2026, there are still plenty of jobs that only require a high school diploma.  In most cases, the training for these jobs is done on the job.

Is there someone in your life who recently graduated high school, or is getting ready to graduate, and doesn't really have an idea of what they want to do?  One of these high-paying jobs could be the perfect fit.

It is important to note that, even though the jobs listed above are based on information in the Portland area, that does not mean there are not opportunities in these fields throughout the rest of the state of Maine.

As you can see from the above list, many of the highest-paying jobs that only require a high school diploma are in the trades and law enforcement.  Additionally, some of the best paying jobs on the list are from the service industry.  Management at a hotel or a motel, for example.