Blue-Collar Jobs That Can Make You $50 an Hour

Additional Coverage:

10 Blue-Collar Jobs That Pay at Least $50 an Hour (financebuzz.com)

Beyond the Cubicle: High-Paying Blue-Collar Jobs for Your Next Career Move

Facing widespread layoffs and mounting financial pressures, many mid-career professionals are reevaluating their career paths, often prioritizing stability over passion. For those weary of the paycheck-to-paycheck grind, the focus has shifted from chasing dreams to securing a job with a livable wage and a low barrier to entry.

If you’re ready to make a change, consider these often-overlooked blue-collar professions that can put you on the fast track to earning at least $50 an hour.

1. Elevator Installer and Mechanic

In bustling urban environments, elevators are a daily convenience, yet their intricate certification, maintenance, and repair often go unnoticed. For skilled elevator technicians, the average hourly wage stands at $48.11, with many earning even more. Those with backgrounds in construction, electrical work, or HVAC repair will find a smoother transition into this specialized field.

2. Aircraft Mechanic

Aircraft repair offers a broad spectrum of compensation, with many professionals reporting starting wages exceeding $50 an hour, depending on the specific sector. Opportunities in private jet maintenance often boast higher pay compared to corporate aviation. While an FAA-approved maintenance technical school degree is typically required, 18 months of practical experience with airframes or power plants can sometimes serve as an alternative entry point.

3. Power Distributor and Dispatcher

The demand for electricity is constant, and working within a power plant can provide a stable and lucrative income. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average hourly pay for this role is $50.70.

While a high school diploma is the technical minimum, vocational training is highly recommended. Extensive on-site training and regular continuing education classes are crucial for staying current in this vital industry.

4. Plumber

Indoor plumbing is the unsung hero of modern civilization, rarely considered until a problem arises, at which point the cost of repair becomes secondary to the need for a solution. This field can be incredibly lucrative for those with vocational training, allowing for specialization in areas like water heater repair and installation, which can yield up to $300,000 annually.

5. Underwater Welder

For certified scuba divers, combining their existing skills with a welding certificate can open doors to an exciting and high-paying career. Underwater welders typically earn around $97,000 per year, with strong potential to quickly reach a six-figure income. Recreational divers may need to pursue additional professional certifications.

6. Information Security Analyst

While a bachelor’s degree in computer science is beneficial, it’s not always a strict requirement to become an information security analyst. Several relevant certifications can provide entry into this rapidly expanding field. With an average hourly wage of $60.05, these certifications can quickly pay for themselves.

7. Riverboat Pilot

If a life on the water appeals to you, becoming a riverboat pilot might be your ideal profession. A license is required, but the pathway to obtaining it is relatively accessible, often involving a two-week course costing around $2,000, along with some paperwork and CPR certification. Riverboat pilots can expect to earn an average of $130,000 to $160,000 per year, with inland water transportation roles often exceeding $100,000 annually.

8. Woodworker

The BLS reports an average salary of $21.02 per hour for woodworkers, but industry professionals indicate that pay often surpasses $50 an hour. Working for businesses on renovations, millwork, and cabinetry can bring in $90,000 a year or more, offering greater stability than self-employment. While self-employed woodworkers report more varied wages, they frequently exceed the $50 per hour mark.

9. Portable Toilet Technician

While it may not be a childhood dream, for those who can stomach the work, cleaning portable toilets can lead to a six-figure salary. The downsides of the job are clear, but the significant advantages include minimal competition and a high degree of recession-proof stability.

10. High-Rise Window Cleaner

For individuals with a head for heights, cleaning windows on tall buildings can be a surprisingly lucrative occupation. In cities like Las Vegas, cleaners can earn $150 per “drop” (each ascent and descent), potentially bringing in $2,000 in a single weekend. This is an excellent option for those without a degree who enjoy the thrill of rock climbing.

The Bottom Line

An increasing number of workers are discovering that even with 40-plus hour workweeks, financial security remains elusive. Returning to school for a new degree isn’t always feasible. Blue-collar jobs frequently offer a lower barrier to entry and more robust on-the-job training, making them an ideal choice for those seeking a career shift while maintaining a stable income.

Optimize Your Finances: A Quick Checklist

Regardless of your current bank account balance, there are always opportunities to enhance your financial well-being. Here’s a quick checklist to consider today:

Prioritize Debt Repayment: Debt can hinder your financial progress. Beyond cutting expenses, tools like balance transfer credit cards and debt counseling can help you accelerate debt repayment.

Generate Extra Income: If finances are tight, supplementing your income can make a significant difference. A new job is one option, but if you’re not ready for a major change or are already retired, a part-time side job could be a better fit.

Reduce Expenses: While it might not sound exciting, cutting expenses doesn’t have to be painful. Focus on your largest expenditures for the biggest potential savings.

For example, soaring auto insurance rates mean shopping around for a new provider could quickly reduce your bill. For upcoming vacations, the right travel credit card can help offset costs.