Is blockchain necessary? I am interested in developing a crypto-currency (who isn't), but I have no interest in the blockchain mining aspect of it. I want to program one that emits the coins when someone has performed some verified work in the real world.

So, does that still require the use of blockchain?
I want to program one that emits the coins when someone has performed
  some verified work in the real world.


This is fiat currency. You receive some coins for performing some work for someone :) No blockchain needed