The 7 Highest-Paying Blue Collar Jobs in America—All With Salaries Over $80k
Advertiser Disclosure
The Wealth Gang team writes about financial information, passive income ideas, apps, programs, cash management tools and other wealth gadgets that we think you might want to use or learn more about. Sometimes, we write about products, services or items that might be associated with affiliate partnerships. In these instances, we will earn a small percentage of the revenue from sales. There is, of course, no cost to you.
Thank you for all your support! Without you, we could not keep this site running. Gang Gang!
Here at Wealth Gang we’re always on the hunt for careers our readers can pursue to build wealth. Because all the financial advice in the world is pointless if you aren’t generating income, whether it be from a side hustle, gig economy job, passive income strategy, or one of these blue collar jobs.
Six-Figure Jobs in High Demand
Previously we’ve highlighted a number of six-figure jobs that will be in demand for the next decade. The list was littered with desk jobs, with the legal, data, information, and medical fields dominating.
We also went deep on a six-figure in-demand job you may not even know about: Ever thought about becoming a certified court reporter? It might be more attractive than you think.
What are the Benefits of a Blue Collar Job?
Blue collar jobs provide a variety of advantages for those who choose to pursue them.
For starters, you can begin your career 4 years (or more) earlier than most of your white collar counter parts. While vital, blue collar occupations often require less training and formal education.
Additionally, blue collar jobs are often more physically demanding, providing individuals with physical exercise while they work. Another benefit is the ability to work outdoors. Bonus is the fact that you don’t sit down all day. After all, some people claim that “sitting is the new smoking”
In terms of stability, blue collar jobs are typically more secure than many white collar, “office” jobs. There is an obvious peace of mind that comes with knowing your livelihood is safe.
Finally, blue collar jobs often have a strong sense of camaraderie among coworkers, helping individuals to build strong relationships with those around them.
All that said, today we’re looking at a fleet of jobs that are a little big grittier, but also very high-paying:
America’s Highest-Paying Blue Collar Jobs
Looking to get your hands dirty? These seven blue collar jobs all carry a median salary over $80,000 here in the US, as of May 2020. We’ve also provided the number currently employed, so you can judge how in-demand and competitive each career is.
7. Power plant operator
6. Powerhouse, substation, and relay electrical and electronics repairers
5. Detectives and criminal investigators
4. Elevator and escalator installers and repairers
3. First-line supervisors of police and detectives
2. Power distributors and dispatchers
1. Nuclear power reactor operators
To see more high-paying blue collar jobs, check this list from Insider.