Journal logo

Hands-On Jobs that Pay Well

If you are more of the hands-on type of person, then these careers might be the best for you.

By Casey ChesterfieldPublished 5 years ago 3 min read
Like

Some of the best-paying in-demand jobs today are trades or occupations that involve hands-on work. Individuals who do not want to spend years studying to earn a degree can still make strong, competitive salaries through postsecondary certification or apprenticeships. If you enjoy working with your hands and want a career that doesn’t involve sitting at a desk for hours every day, there are many options to choose from that pay well.

Plumber

Plumbing repairs are some of the most costly for property owners, and this is one of the reasons that skilled plumbers are in demand nationwide. Whether they’re performing a sewer repair NJ or replacing damaged pipes or fixing a leak, the skills plumbers have are needed by both businesses and homeowners. Their salaries typically average over $50,000 per year and those interested in becoming a plumber can choose between technical school training or starting an apprenticeship that will let them earn while they learn.

Apprentices do take some classes each year but do not attend school full-time. Once the required number of years of hands-on training has been completed they can obtain their license. Those interested in advancement opportunities can study for an exam to be a master plumber after they have enough practical experience.

Wind Turbine Technician

The push towards renewable energy sources has contributed to the extremely high demand for qualified wind turbine technicians. They put wind turbines together and are also responsible for performing routine maintenance and repairing them. Entry into this profession requires a certificate from a technical school. Wind turbine technicians took home median incomes of $53,880 as of 2017, making this a great hands-on career option for those who aren’t afraid of heights. This occupation currently enjoys expected job growth of 96 percent from 2016 to 2026.

Water Transportation Worker

What could be better than spending your workday out on the water, riding the waves? For some people, the appeal of being outdoors and on the water is reason alone to consider a career as a water transportation worker. These professionals may drive vessels, typically transporting goods or people from place to place. Others assist with activities such as loading and unloading, cleaning, and maintenance. There are opportunities for individuals without any formal education, although some roles do require postsecondary studies. Those working in this field typically earn more than $50,000 annually.

Home Inspector

Almost every home or building purchase involves an inspection, and home inspectors earn a strong annual salary that typically ranges between $50,000 and $60,000 per year. Their job involves visiting a building and performing a detailed check of the structure and all relevant components, such as the furnace, the plumbing, and electrical systems. They make notes of potential repairs that may be required and specific safety concerns. These professionals may also inspect properties for bank evaluations for refinancing a mortgage or securing a loan, which adds to the demand for qualified home inspectors. They typically have postsecondary training in related fields, such as construction management, and then fulfill their state’s licensing requirements, which can often be done with just a few weeks of training.

Aviation Maintenance Technician

Within two years of postsecondary training, individuals can earn their certification to become an aviation maintenance technician. These technicians are rewarded with the qualifications to enter a career field that pays over $60,000 per year. They inspect aircraft before and after use to make sure that everything is working properly and they make repairs as needed. There’s room for advancement to other roles, such as being an inspector, and those with good communication skills can also consider becoming aviation maintenance instructors.

Mechanics

Construction and materials moving equipment are widely used throughout the entire country. Mechanics working everywhere from a forklift company in New Jersey to repair shops are in high demand and can bring home a strong annual salary. Mechanics use their skills to evaluate vehicles and determine what is keeping them from operating properly and then replace parts and repair damaged parts. Some mechanics specifically train to work on diesel engines and take home a median annual income over $45,000. They may work on anything from boats to buses, and the range of vehicles they can use their skills to repair increases demand for these professionals.

career
Like

About the Creator

Reader insights

Be the first to share your insights about this piece.

How does it work?

Add your insights

Comments

There are no comments for this story

Be the first to respond and start the conversation.

Sign in to comment

    Find us on social media

    Miscellaneous links

    • Explore
    • Contact
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms of Use
    • Support

    © 2024 Creatd, Inc. All Rights Reserved.