6 Entry-Level Allied Health Jobs that Pay Well
You don’t need a four-year degree—or even an associate degree—to launch a well-paying and meaningful career in healthcare. Allied health professions offer hands-on, patient-focused roles in fast-paced medical environments, and many entry-level positions are accessible with short-term training programs or certifications. Whether you’re looking to work in a dental office, hospital, outpatient clinic, or surgical center, there are numerous options that combine a good income with job stability.
If you’re passionate about helping others and want to enter the medical field quickly, these six entry-level allied health jobs offer the perfect combination of purpose and pay. They’re also in high demand, thanks to an aging population and growing need for skilled healthcare support staff.
1. Dental Assistant
Dental assistants are essential team members in every dental practice. They work alongside dentists and hygienists to assist with procedures, manage patient care, and maintain clean and sterile treatment environments. From preparing exam rooms and sterilizing instruments to taking x-rays and assisting during procedures, dental assistants ensure smooth operations in dental offices.
Most dental assistant programs can be completed in under a year, and no degree is required. Once trained, dental assistants often enjoy flexible work schedules, competitive pay, and the opportunity to build close relationships with patients. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, dental assistants earn a median salary of over $47,000 per year, with some experienced professionals earning much more depending on location and specialization.
2. Medical Assistant
Medical assistants are the multi-tasking heroes of outpatient care. They perform both clinical and administrative tasks, such as checking vital signs, drawing blood, giving injections, updating medical records, and scheduling appointments. Their versatility makes them valuable in doctor’s offices, urgent care centers, and even specialized clinics like dermatology or cardiology.
Training programs for medical assisting are typically short and affordable, often lasting less than a year. What makes this role particularly appealing is the opportunity to explore both the administrative and clinical sides of healthcare. Many medical assistants use the role as a stepping stone to nursing or other advanced healthcare careers. Median salaries hover around $44,000 annually, with potential for growth through certification and experience.
3. Surgical Technologist
Surgical technologists—also known as operating room techs—play a vital role in surgical teams. They prepare operating rooms, sterilize instruments, assist surgeons during procedures, and ensure that patients are positioned and draped properly. It’s a high-intensity job that requires focus, attention to detail, and the ability to work well under pressure.
Despite the technical nature of the role, surgical technologists can train and become certified in as little as 6–12 months. With the right credentials, many surgical techs earn an estimated $60,000 per year. It’s a strong career path for those who are detail-oriented, thrive in fast-paced environments, and want to work directly in lifesaving procedures without spending years in school.
4. Pharmacy Technician
Pharmacy technicians assist pharmacists in dispensing medications, managing inventory, and providing customer service in retail and hospital pharmacy settings. While they don’t advise on medication usage, they are crucial in ensuring prescriptions are accurate, properly filled, and labeled. They may also handle billing, insurance claims, and stock control.
Entry into this role typically requires a high school diploma and the completion of a short certification program, which can take just a few months. Some states also require passing a certification exam. With a national median wage around $43,000 and potential for advancement into supervisory or specialized roles, pharmacy techs are in demand—especially in hospitals and long-term care facilities.
5. Dental Sterilization Technician
If you’re looking for a way to enter the dental field without patient-facing duties, becoming a dental sterilization technician is a great option. These professionals are responsible for maintaining infection control standards in dental offices. They clean, disinfect, and sterilize instruments and tools, ensure proper inventory of supplies, and support clinical teams by keeping equipment ready and safe.
While this role doesn’t require a formal degree, many dental sterilization techs complete brief training programs that focus on infection control procedures and OSHA guidelines. It’s a great way to get a foot in the door in a dental office, and the experience can often lead to advancement into more patient-facing roles like dental assistant. Salaries start just under $46,000 annually, with significant upward mobility for those who choose to continue training.
6. EKG Technician
Electrocardiograph (EKG) technicians specialize in conducting tests that monitor the electrical activity of the heart. They attach electrodes to a patient’s body, operate EKG machines, and interpret results for physicians to diagnose heart conditions. It’s a great job for those who enjoy technical work and want to be involved in patient diagnostics without spending years in college.
Training to become an EKG technician can be completed in just a few months, often through certification courses or bootcamps. The demand for cardiovascular technicians continues to rise, especially in hospitals, cardiac centers, and outpatient labs. Entry-level EKG techs can earn $70,000 annually, with significant potential for growth through specialization and experience.
Start a Rewarding Healthcare Career Without a Degree
Allied health careers offer fast entry points into the growing field of healthcare. Many of the jobs above are attainable within a year or less and provide a strong return on investment—especially compared to traditional four-year degrees. Whether you’re drawn to hands-on patient care, technical procedures, or administrative support, there’s an entry-level allied health job that can fit your goals and lifestyle.
If you’re ready to explore your future in healthcare, consider training with Zollege. As an accelerated, in-person medical and dental assistant training provider with schools across the United States, Zollege offers low-cost, hands-on programs that prepare students for the real world. Unlike some online-only schools, Zollege students gain experience in actual medical and dental offices—giving them a competitive edge when they graduate. Take the first step toward your new career today.