The degree will give you a lot of networking opportunities and this is what you need to get a job... also you'll have to be ready to relocate, so I would start applying to any job available anywhere in the US and why not around the world...
I can't get one because the automated application systems don't even accept an application if you have no degree, hence the question. I've applied for a couple of jobs, but I've gotten no response, not even email. I'm just ignored.
Again, you need to find a way to network with the people in those companies, go to meets, submit a paper and speak at conferences, etc... this is the only way...
