Many people have heard “blue-collar” but aren’t sure what it means. Blue-collar jobs are occupations that typically require manual labor and involve working with your hands, such as construction, manufacturing, and transportation. While these jobs may not require a college degree, they can pay very well and offer excellent career opportunities. In this article, we will look at 30 blue-collar jobs that pay very well.
Thirty High Paying Blue-Collar Jobs
Electrician
Electricians install and repair electrical systems in homes, businesses, and factories. The average annual salary for electricians is $56,180.
Plumber
Plumbers install and repair water, drainage, and gas systems in homes, businesses, and factories. The average annual salary for plumbers is $60,160.
HVAC Technician
HVAC technicians install and repair heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in homes, businesses, and factories. The average annual salary for HVAC technicians is $50,590.
Welder
Welders join metal parts together using heat and pressure. The average annual salary for welders is $42,490.
Carpenter
Carpenters build and install structures such as buildings, bridges, and furniture. The average annual salary for carpenters is $49,520.
Construction Manager
Construction managers oversee construction projects and ensure that they are completed on time and within budget. The average annual salary for construction managers is $97,180.
Heavy Equipment Operator
Heavy equipment operators operate machinery such as bulldozers, cranes, and backhoes. The average annual salary for heavy equipment operators is $48,160.
Truck Driver
Truck drivers transport goods and materials over long distances. The average annual salary for truck drivers is $48,380.
Brickmason
Brickmasons lay bricks and other materials to construct buildings and other structures. The average annual salary for brickmasons is $51,750.
Ironworker
Ironworkers install and reinforce steel and other materials in buildings and other structures. The average annual salary for ironworkers is $54,740.
Machinist
Machinists operate and maintain machines that produce metal parts. The average annual salary for machinists is $45,750.
Pipefitter
Pipefitters install and repair pipes that transport liquids and gases in homes, businesses, and factories. The average annual salary for pipefitters is $55,160.
Sheet Metal Worker
Sheet metal workers fabricate and install sheet metal products such as ducts and roofs. The average annual salary for sheet metal workers is $50,400.
Boilermaker
Boilermakers build, install, and repair boilers and other pressure vessels. The average annual salary for boilermakers is $63,100.
Elevator Installer
Elevator installers install and repair elevators and other types of lifts. The average annual salary for elevator installers is $88,540.
Foreman
Foremen supervise and coordinate the work of construction and manufacturing workers. The average annual salary for foremen is $65,390.
Industrial Machinery Mechanic
Industrial machinery mechanics repair and maintain machinery used in manufacturing and other industries. The average annual salary for industrial machinery mechanics is $54,920.
Line Worker
Line workers install and repair electrical and telecommunications lines. The average annual salary for line workers is $71,960.
Locksmith
Locksmiths install and repair locks and security systems. The average annual salary for locksmiths is $44,650.
Mechanic
Mechanics repair and maintain cars, trucks, and other vehicles. The average annual salary for mechanics is $43,700.
Painter
Painters apply paint and other coatings to surfaces such as buildings, cars, and furniture. The average annual salary for painters is $40,280. Painters may work on new construction projects or be responsible for the maintenance and repainting of existing structures. They must have a good eye for color and design, as well as the ability to work with a variety of materials and tools. With experience, painters can advance to supervisory positions and earn even higher salaries.
Diesel Mechanic
Diesel mechanics repair and maintain diesel engines used in buses, trucks, and other heavy equipment. The average annual salary for diesel mechanics is $50,360.
Mason
Masons lay bricks, concrete blocks, and other types of masonry to construct buildings and other structures. The average annual salary for masons is $44,810.
Plasterer
Plasterers apply plaster to walls and ceilings to create a smooth surface for painting or wallpapering. The average annual salary for plasterers is $44,810.
Roofer
Roofers install and repair roofs on homes, buildings, and other structures. The average annual salary for roofers is $43,290.
Water Treatment Plant Operator
Water treatment plant operators operate and maintain equipment that purifies water for public consumption. The average annual salary for water treatment plant operators is $49,290.
Automotive Service Technician
Automotive service technicians repair and maintain cars and other vehicles. The average annual salary for automotive service technicians is $44,050.
Security and Fire Alarm System Installer
Security and fire alarm system installers install and repair alarm systems in homes and businesses. The average annual salary for security and fire alarm system installers is $50,940.
Glass Installer and Repairer
Glass installers and repairers install and repair glass in homes, buildings, and vehicles. The average annual salary for glass installers and repairers is $40,650.
Landscaper
Landscapers maintain lawns, gardens, and other outdoor spaces for homes and businesses. The average annual salary for landscapers is $31,330.