Best Paying Jobs in Basic Industries

Basic industries, vital for supplying raw materials for various sectors, offer some of the best paying jobs. This blog explores the top ten roles in this sector, highlighting the potential for those interested in this field.

1. Assembly Operator

• Average Salary: $37,390
• Job Description: Assembly operators are responsible for building or assembling products using machines that work with materials like plastics, glass, and metals.
• Education: High school diploma and on-the-job training.

2. Overnight Grocery Stocker

• Average Salary: $28,348
• Job Description: Responsible for stocking and organizing grocery shelves.
• Education: Generally no formal education requirements, but on-the-job training is provided.

3. Welder

• Average Salary: Up to $66,450 (for those with an associate degree)
• Job Description: Welders join and cut metal parts using specialized equipment.
• Education: High school diploma or less can suffice, but higher earnings are noted for those with an associate degree in welding technology.

4. Packaging Machine Operator

• Average Salary: $51,080
• Job Description: Operates machines for packaging products.
• Education: No specific educational requirements, but knowledge of machinery is beneficial.

5. Elevator Installer and Repairer

• Average Salary: $83,000
• Job Description: Install and repair elevators, ensuring their proper functioning.
• Education: Generally requires a high school diploma and apprenticeship.

6. Boilermaker

• Average Salary: $61,320
• Job Description: Boilermakers construct, install, and repair boilers and other large containers.
• Education: Typically requires completion of an apprenticeship program.

7. Agricultural Engineer

• Average Salary: $84,410
• Job Description: Design and improve farming equipment and processes.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in agricultural engineering or similar field.

8. Utility Plant Operator

• Average Salary: $83,020
• Job Description: Monitors and controls utility plant equipment.
• Education: High school diploma or equivalent, with on-the-job training.

9. Agricultural Manager

• Average Salary: $68,090
• Job Description: Manages daily operations of agricultural establishments.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in agriculture or related field, along with experience.

10. Soil Conservationist

• Average Salary: $65,320
• Job Description: Works to protect and improve soil quality.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in soil science, agronomy, or related field.

Final Thoughts

The basic industries sector offers a variety of lucrative and fulfilling job opportunities. These roles provide financial stability and cater to different educational backgrounds and interests, from hands-on technical work to managerial positions in agriculture. As global needs for raw materials and sustainable practices grow, so do the opportunities in basic industries.

Other Jobs in Industrial and Manufacturing Sectors

• Best Paying Jobs in Capital Goods
• Best Paying Jobs in Metal Fabrications
• Best Paying Jobs in Oil & Gas Production
• See All High-Paying Career Opportunities By Industry

Sources

• New Balance Jobs: NewBalancejobs
• Digital Phablet: Digital Phablet
• Globe Monitor: Globe Monitor
• Career Karma: Career Karma
• Careergigo: Careergigo

Frank Gogol

I’m a firm believer that information is the key to financial freedom. On the Stilt Blog, I write about the complex topics — like finance, immigration, and technology — to help immigrants make the most of their lives in the U.S. Our content and brand have been featured in Forbes, TechCrunch, VentureBeat, and more.

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