There are many blue-collar jobs that come with a high salary. The highest paying blue-collar job is probably that of an electrician. Electricians make a median wage of $51,880 per year, and the top 10% earn more than $88,580. Other high-paying blue-collar jobs include plumbers ($50,620), HVAC technicians ($47,610), carpenters ($46,590), ironworkers ($46,010), and welders ($42,480).
Elevator Installer: $84,990
Elevator installers and repairers are responsible for the maintenance and repair of elevators, escalators, and moving walkways. They typically work in commercial or industrial settings, such as office buildings, shopping malls, hospitals, and factories.
Elevator installers and repairers must be able to read blueprints and technical manuals in order to understand the specific requirements for each project. They use a variety of hand tools, power tools, and testing equipment to complete their work.
Most elevator installers and repairers learn on the job through apprenticeship programs sponsored by unions or trade associations. Some may receive formal training at a technical school or community college. Elevator installers and repairers must be licensed in some states.
Power Plant Operator: $81,990
In the United States, a power plant operator is responsible for the operation of a power plant. They are responsible for the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity. Power plant operators must have a high school diploma or equivalent. Some states require power plant operators to be licensed.
The average salary for a power plant operator is $81,990 per year. The top 10 percent of power plant operators make more than $116,070 per year. The bottom 10 percent of power plant operators make less than $51,430 per year.
Petroleum Pump System Operator: $74,180
Petroleum pump system operators work in petroleum refineries, Gathering systems and natural gas processing plants. They operate the pumps and compressors that move petroleum products, such as crude oil, through pipelines. They also monitor and control the pressure, flow and temperature of these products to ensure optimal performance of the system.
Petroleum pump system operators typically have a high school diploma or equivalent. Some positions may require postsecondary education or certification. Many employers provide on-the-job training for new employees.
Petroleum pump system operators typically work full time, although some positions may be part time or rotating shifts. They may be exposed to hazardous materials and conditions, such as fumes, noise and extreme temperatures.
Powerhouse Substation and Relay Technician: $71,191
The electric power industry is one of the most essential industries in the world. It provides the electricity that powers our homes and businesses, and it is the backbone of many other industries. The electric power industry is also one of the most hazardous industries, and it is crucial to have properly trained and qualified personnel to work in this environment.
Powerhouse substation and relay technicians are responsible for maintaining, repairing, and testing electrical equipment in substations. They must be able to safely work with high-voltage equipment and must have a thorough understanding of electrical theory. Powerhouse substation and relay technicians typically have an associate’s degree or certificate in electrical engineering technology or a related field.
Power-Line Installer and Repairer: $61,276
We all rely on electricity to power our homes and businesses, but few of us ever think about the people who work tirelessly to make sure that our lights stay on. Power-line installers and repairers are the unsung heroes of the electrical grid, and they do some of the most dangerous work out there.
These workers climb tall poles or towers to string or repair power lines that can be hundreds of feet off the ground. They work in all kinds of weather and often have to contend with live wires carrying thousands of volts of electricity. It’s a tough job, but someone has to do it.
And it’s a well-paying job, too. The median salary for power-line installers and repairers is $61,276 per year, making it one of the highest-paying blue collar jobs out there. If you’re not afraid of heights and you don’t mind working long hours in sometimes difficult conditions, this could be the perfect career for you.