High-Paying Physical Jobs Worth Considering In 2023
In today’s world, high-paying physical jobs are becoming increasingly rare. However, for those willing to work hard and get their hands dirty, opportunities still exist to earn a good living and avoid a desk job.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: construction managers, electricians, plumbers, elevator installers, aircraft mechanics, and wind turbine technicians are some of the highest paying physical jobs available today.
In this detailed guide, we will explore the best physical jobs that pay well in 2023. We have researched job salaries, education requirements, job prospects, and day-to-day responsibilities to provide you with the most pertinent information.
Construction Manager
Median Salary
Construction managers play a crucial role in overseeing and coordinating construction projects. They are responsible for planning, budgeting, and supervising the construction process. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for construction managers was $97,180 in May 2020, which is well above the national average.
Education Requirements
To become a construction manager, a bachelor’s degree in construction management or a related field is typically required. Some employers may prefer candidates with a master’s degree in construction management.
Additionally, gaining relevant work experience in construction and obtaining a certification, such as the Certified Construction Manager (CCM) credential, can further enhance job prospects.
Job Outlook
The job outlook for construction managers is expected to be favorable in the coming years. With an increasing demand for infrastructure development and construction projects, the need for skilled construction managers is on the rise.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 10% growth in employment for construction managers from 2019 to 2029, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
Day-to-Day Responsibilities
Construction managers have a wide range of responsibilities. They collaborate with architects, engineers, and other professionals to develop project plans and specifications. They also oversee the hiring and management of subcontractors, as well as ensuring compliance with building codes and safety regulations.
Additionally, construction managers monitor the progress of construction projects, manage budgets and schedules, and address any issues or delays that may arise during the construction process.
For more information and resources on construction management, you can visit the Construction Management Association website.
Electrician
Electricians are skilled tradespeople who work with electrical systems in various settings, including residential, commercial, and industrial. They play a crucial role in installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical infrastructure, ensuring that buildings and equipment are powered safely and efficiently.
Median Salary
Electricians are known for their high earning potential. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for electricians was $56,180 in May 2020. However, it’s important to note that salaries can vary based on factors such as experience, location, and industry.
Education Requirements
Becoming an electrician typically requires a combination of formal education and on-the-job training. Most electricians complete an apprenticeship program, which typically lasts four to five years. During this time, apprentices gain hands-on experience while working under the supervision of experienced electricians.
Additionally, electricians need to obtain a license or certification, which can vary by state.
Job Outlook
The demand for electricians is expected to grow in the coming years. As technology continues to advance and more emphasis is placed on renewable energy sources, there will be a need for electricians to install and maintain electrical systems in these areas.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 8% increase in employment for electricians from 2019 to 2029, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.
Day-to-Day Responsibilities
Electricians have diverse responsibilities that can vary depending on the type of work they are involved in. Some common tasks include:
- Reading and interpreting electrical blueprints
- Installing electrical systems, wiring, and fixtures
- Testing electrical circuits and equipment
- Repairing or replacing faulty electrical components
- Maintaining and upgrading electrical systems
- Ensuring compliance with electrical codes and safety regulations
Plumber
Median Salary
Plumbers are skilled tradespeople who install, repair, and maintain plumbing systems in residential and commercial buildings. As of 2023, the median salary for plumbers is around $55,000 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
However, it’s important to note that this figure can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and the type of plumbing work being performed.
Education Requirements
To become a plumber, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. After completing high school, aspiring plumbers can pursue vocational training programs or apprenticeships. These programs provide hands-on training and classroom instruction in areas such as pipefitting, plumbing codes, and blueprint reading.
Some states may also require plumbers to obtain a license, which often involves passing an exam and meeting specific experience requirements.
Job Outlook
The demand for plumbers is expected to remain strong in the coming years. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of plumbers is projected to grow by 4% from 2022 to 2028, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations.
This growth can be attributed to factors such as the expansion of residential and commercial construction, as well as the need for repairs and maintenance of existing plumbing systems.
Day-to-Day Responsibilities
Plumbers have a variety of responsibilities that can vary depending on the specific job and industry they work in. Some common tasks include:
- Installing and repairing plumbing fixtures, such as toilets, sinks, and faucets.
- Inspecting plumbing systems to identify and diagnose issues.
- Reading and interpreting blueprints and technical drawings.
- Collaborating with other construction professionals, such as electricians and HVAC technicians.
- Ensuring compliance with building codes and regulations.
- Providing estimates for plumbing services and materials.
Elevator Installer
Median Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for elevator installers and repairers was $84,990 as of May 2020. This means that half of the professionals in this field earned more than this amount, while the other half earned less.
Education Requirements
Typically, elevator installers require a high school diploma or equivalent. However, most employers prefer candidates who have completed an apprenticeship program or have some formal training in a related field.
These programs provide the necessary knowledge and skills to work on elevators and are usually a combination of classroom instruction and on-the-job training.
Job Outlook
The job outlook for elevator installers is excellent. The BLS projects a 7% growth rate in employment for elevator installers and repairers from 2020 to 2030, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
This growth is attributed to the increasing demand for accessibility and the aging infrastructure in many buildings.
Day-to-Day Responsibilities
Elevator installers are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing elevators, escalators, and other lifting equipment. Their day-to-day tasks may include:
- Examining blueprints and specifications to determine the layout of elevator systems
- Installing and wiring elevator components, such as cables, motors, and control systems
- Testing newly installed equipment to ensure proper functioning
- Performing regular maintenance and inspections to identify and fix any issues
- Responding to service calls to repair malfunctioning elevators
Becoming an elevator installer can be a rewarding career choice, both financially and professionally. It requires a combination of technical skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to safety. If you are interested in this field, consider exploring apprenticeship programs or formal training to kickstart your career as an elevator installer.
Aircraft Mechanic
If you’re looking for a high-paying physical job in 2023, becoming an aircraft mechanic might be a great option to consider. Aircraft mechanics play a vital role in ensuring the safety and functionality of airplanes, helicopters, and other aircraft.
Median Salary
Aircraft mechanics enjoy a competitive salary, with a median annual wage of around $64,090 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, it’s important to note that salaries can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and the type of aircraft worked on.
Education Requirements
To become an aircraft mechanic, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. However, most employers prefer candidates who have completed a formal training program. These programs are often offered by community colleges, technical schools, and the military.
Additionally, aircraft mechanics must obtain the appropriate certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Job Outlook
The job outlook for aircraft mechanics is promising. With the increasing number of aircraft in operation and the need for regular maintenance and repairs, the demand for skilled aircraft mechanics is expected to grow in the coming years.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of aircraft mechanics and service technicians is projected to grow 4% from 2019 to 2029.
Day-to-Day Responsibilities
Aircraft mechanics are responsible for inspecting, maintaining, and repairing aircraft systems and components. Their duties may include performing regular inspections, troubleshooting mechanical issues, repairing or replacing faulty parts, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
They often work in hangars, maintenance facilities, or on the airfield.
Additionally, aircraft mechanics may work on a variety of aircraft, ranging from small private planes to large commercial jets. They must be knowledgeable about different types of aircraft systems, including engines, hydraulic systems, electrical systems, and avionics.
Wind Turbine Technician
Median Salary
Wind turbine technicians are among the high-paying physical jobs worth considering in 2023. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for wind turbine technicians was $56,230 in May 2020.
This is significantly higher than the median wage for all occupations, making it an attractive career choice for those looking for good earning potential.
Education Requirements
To become a wind turbine technician, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. However, some employers may prefer candidates with postsecondary education in wind energy technology or a related field.
Additionally, on-the-job training is usually provided to ensure technicians have the necessary skills to safely and effectively perform their duties.
Job Outlook
The job outlook for wind turbine technicians is excellent. As the demand for renewable energy continues to grow, so does the need for skilled technicians to install, maintain, and repair wind turbines.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of wind turbine service technicians is projected to grow 68 percent from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations. This is due to increasing investments in renewable energy and the push to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Day-to-Day Responsibilities
Wind turbine technicians play a crucial role in the operation and maintenance of wind turbines. Their day-to-day responsibilities may include:
- Inspecting and maintaining wind turbines to ensure they are functioning properly
- Performing routine maintenance tasks, such as lubricating moving parts and replacing worn-out components
- Diagnosing and repairing mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic issues
- Climbing towers and working at heights to access turbine components
- Following safety protocols and procedures to minimize the risk of accidents
These dedicated technicians often work in teams and may need to travel to different wind farm sites to perform their duties. Their work is essential in harnessing the power of wind energy and contributing to a more sustainable future.
Conclusion
While physical jobs may require more manual labor, they provide the opportunity to earn a great living without spending years in school. With strong job growth predicted across many trades, now is an opportune time to consider a career working with your hands.
We hope this outline has provided insight into some of the most lucrative physical job options in today’s workforce. Though challenging, these hands-on roles offer stability, high wages, and satisfying work.
