Blue Collar Jobs That Pay Well

With the right certifications and mechanical expertise, you can apply for blue-collar jobs that pay well. Despite what many think, blue-collar is not the stereotype that describes jobs involving manual labor or a skilled trade; in fact, many high-paying positions are available in these fields. Read on to learn more about some of these great career options!

Building Inspector

The average salary for a building instructor, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, is $57,314 per year. Construction and Building inspectors play an important role in examining the structural quality and safety of various buildings and structures, including streets & highways, bridges, dams, sewer systems, etc. They also assess electrical and plumbing systems.

Although each inspection is unique, construction and building inspectors typically start with a preliminary scan during the first stage of construction. They will then do follow-up observations throughout the build until it reaches completion. They will do a final check to see if everything meets the standard and give either verbal or written feedback on what they found.

Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Powerhouse, Substation, and Relay

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average annual salary for a Powerhouse, substation, and relay repairer is $93,420. The roles of these workers are to inspect, test, fix or maintain electrical systems and equipment used in power stations, as well as substations and relays.

Boilermaker

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that boilermakers earn, on average, $64,290 annually. These professionals build and install boilers and other large vessels that hold liquids or gases.

Boilermakers not only build boilers from scratch, but they are also responsible for maintaining and repairing them. They do this by reading blueprints, creating prototypes, welding boiler parts together, and continually testing the newly built or repaired product. Boilermakers also strive to make boilers as efficient as possible to follow environmental regulations.

Aircraft Mechanics

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the national average salary for an aircraft mechanic is $65,380 per year. If you're passionate about aviation, becoming an aircraft mechanic or service tech is a great career choice. These workers are responsible for keeping planes, jets, and helicopters in good condition by regularly carrying out repair and maintenance work. There are various ways to qualify for this role - some people learn through on-the-job training, while others go to technical school. However, all candidates must pass an FAA written exam before they can be certified.

The demand for aircraft mechanics is widespread, giving you the opportunity to work for various employers such as airlines, militaries, or private businesses. Additionally, depending on your specialization and location of residence, you may have the chance to work on many different aircraft types.

Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the national average salary for telecommunications equipment installers and repairers is $60,270 per year. Radio and telecommunications equipment installers are essential for keeping our communication systems operational. They install, test, and repair wiring, circuits, and radio equipment, as well as identify any potential problems with telecom systems. In doing so, they help keep us connected to the world around us.

After completing postsecondary education in electronics, computer technology, or a related field, radio and telecommunications equipment installers typically need to undergo on-the-job training. This might include shadowing experienced individuals and taking classes about new procedures and service equipment.

Gas plant Operator

A gas plant operator's salary is, on average, $77,850 annually, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Gas plant operators are responsible for managing the different types of gas production, storage, and transport. Gas plant operators work for oil and utility companies, checking gauges, maintaining equipment, and keeping gasses at pressurization and temperature levels.

Although a high school diploma is the minimum educational requirement, many employers prefer candidates who have completed technical training programs. Furthermore, given the hazardous job duties plant operators perform on a daily basis, most states require licensure. Therefore, before You start searching for entry-level positions in this field, check your state's requirements regarding licenses and certifications.

Iron Worker

As reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the national average salary for an ironworker is $57,160 per year. Iron and steel workers use metal to construct buildings, structures, bridges, and so much more.

Line Installer and Repairers

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the national average salary for a line installer and repairer is $78,310 per year. Electrical linemen are responsible for installing and repairing high-voltage and low-voltage distribution lines and the associated facilities and equipment.

Completing an apprenticeship program is the main requirement to become an electrical power-line installer or repairer. The duration of the program typically lasts four to five years and provides students with a mechanical, physical, safety, and ethical education about the electric industry. You must also hold a high school diploma or GED in order to obtain entrance into apprentice programs.

Elevator Installers

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the national average salary for an elevator installer and repairer is $97,860 per year. In order to become an elevator installer or repairer, you will first need to complete a three or four-year apprenticeship program. This program requires that applicants have already obtained their high school diploma.

If you love finding solutions to problems, then a job as an elevator installer or repairer is perfect for you. Most of the work involves reading blueprints, locating malfunctioning parts, and repairing cables and motors. Keep in mind that this profession is one of the highest-paying blue-collar jobs compared to others on this list.

Power Plant Operator

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average yearly salary for a gas plant operator is $94,790. Their responsibilities include controlling and maintaining the equipment that generates electricity in power plants. The type of plant informs the fuel source: coal, natural gas, or a nuclear power reactor. Most employers prefer applicants to have completed some form of postsecondary education and to be strong in math. Because this profession has a high median annual salary relative to other jobs, it is often seen as one of the more desirable blue-collar occupations.

Locomotive Engineer

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the national average salary for a locomotive engineer is $79,740 per year. Working with other people in the railroad industry, locomotive engineers use controls to keep track of things like air pressure and train schedule. They also write entries into train inspection logs and watch over and maintain locomotive equipment.