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New analysis shows best-value roles offering career growth without a degree
New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - June 10, 2025) - A new analysis from OysterLink, a leading hospitality job platform, has identified the best-value careers in hospitality for 2025 - spotlighting roles that offer strong wage growth, robust employment opportunities, and require no college degree.
OysterLink
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According to OysterLink, several hospitality jobs - including bartenders, cooks, and event planners - are showing the strongest combination of income growth and job demand, making them standout choices for individuals without formal degrees.
High-Growth Hospitality Roles with No Degree Required
The following table highlights some of the top hospitality jobs that offer a winning mix of wage growth, employee growth, and future opportunity - without requiring a college degree:
| No. | Job Title | 2024 Avg. Salary | Wage Growth (2020-24) | Employee Growth (2020-24) | Job Outlook (2023-33) | Annual Projected Openings |
| 1 | Bartender | $39,880 | +7.5% | +4.9% | +9% | 134,600 |
| 2 | Cook | $37,730 | +4.6% | +2.8% | +17% | 257,700 |
| 3 | Event Planner | $65,090 | +4.5% | +10.3% | +7% | 16,500 |
| 4 | Valet | $34,190 | +4.6% | +14.0% | +5% | 18,600 |
| 5 | Dishwasher | $33,220 | +5.0% | +1.7% | +1% | 80,500 |
| 6 | Housekeeper | $36,180 | +4.4% | +2.2% | +1% | 190,600 |
| 7 | Waiter/Server | $38,360 | +5.0% | +2.9% | +1% | 471,200 |
Among the top-performing roles:
- Bartenders top the list for no-degree jobs with 7.5% wage growth and a strong 9% outlook.
- Cooks have the best long-term demand with 17% projected growth and 257,700 annual openings.
- Event planners earn the highest average salary ($65K+) and saw a 10.3% rise in workforce.
- Valets saw the fastest employee growth (14%) as travel demand rebounded.
- Dishwashers and housekeepers offer over 270,000 combined openings with steady wages.
- Waiters/servers have the most job openings overall - 471,200 expected annually.
"These roles are now set up as viable long-term career paths," said Milos Eric, co-founder and general manager at OysterLink. "Many people are rethinking traditional education routes, and this just shows you don't need to feel held back because you didn't go to college."
Economic and Industry Context
The analysis is based on wage and employment trends from 2020 to 2024, as well as 10-year job outlook projections from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. With the hospitality industry poised to add over 6 million jobs by 2033, demand for skilled frontline staff remains high - especially in food and guest services.
"Hospitality jobs are more accessible than ever," Eric added. "At OysterLink, we're committed to helping candidates find the most fitting opportunities, and assisting employers in connecting with the talent they need."
About OysterLink
OysterLink is a leading job platform dedicated to the hospitality industry. We connect restaurants, hotels, and hospitality employers with skilled candidates across the U.S. and internationally.
With job listings, including bartender jobs in New York City and waiter jobs in Miami, industry insights, and career resources, OysterLink helps professionals build rewarding careers in hospitality.
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To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/255111
