You want to start a career in the basic industries but would prefer to get the best-paying jobs, understandably.
The basic industries include manufacturing, mining, agriculture, forestry, fishing, construction, transportation, warehousing, and utilities.
These industries provide the raw materials, energy, infrastructure, and other essentials to support modern economies and lifestyles.
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While automation and globalization have reduced employment in some basic industries, many good jobs remain for skilled workers, especially as advanced technologies create new opportunities.
This article aims to pinpoint the best paying jobs available in the basic industries, their roles, and their qualifications.
20 Best Paying Jobs in Basic Industries in 2024
Here are 20 of the best-paying jobs in the basic industries for 2024:
1. Electrical Engineer
Average Annual Salary: $103,390
Electrical engineers design, develop and supervise electrical equipment manufacturing, components, and systems.
Their work powers everything from small consumer electronics to vast power grids.
Demand is strong for electrical engineers to work on technologies like renewable energy, electric vehicles, smart grids, automation, and robotics. A bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering is required.
2. Construction Manager
Average Annual Salary: $99,800
Construction managers plan, coordinate, and budget for construction projects.
As project leaders, they oversee the procurement of materials, scheduling of work crews, compliance with regulations, and quality control.
With a growing population and development needs, construction management offers high pay, especially for larger commercial and infrastructure projects.
A bachelor’s degree in construction management, architecture or engineering is typical.
3. Airline Pilot
Average Annual Salary: $93,500
Airline pilots fly and navigate planes carrying passengers, mail, or cargo. Strong training and licensing requirements lead to high pay for this highly-skilled role.
Pilots must have a commercial pilot’s license, an instrument rating, and an air transport license.
Airline pilots typically start as commercial pilots before becoming certified for airliners. Flight experience in the military can help candidates qualify.
4. Power Plant Operator
Average Annual Salary: $87,420
Power plant operators control equipment to generate and distribute electrical power.
Nuclear power reactors, fossil fuel plants, hydroelectric dams, and other facilities require round-the-clock staffing.
Operators monitor performance, make adjustments and respond to abnormal conditions.
Technical training is provided on the job, but related experience or an associate’s degree is preferred. Licensing is mandatory for nuclear plant operators.
5. Elevator Installer and Repairer
Average Annual Salary: $86,920
Elevator installers assemble, install and maintain elevators, escalators, moving walkways, and other lifts.
They interpret blueprints, test equipment, and ensure compliance with codes. The work involves construction skills and mechanical aptitude.
Most enter through a 4-year apprenticeship program sponsored by industry associations or unions.
Due to steady building construction, job opportunities are expected to be good.
6. Power Distributor and Dispatcher
Average Annual Salary: $86,410
Power distributors and dispatchers coordinate the transmission and distribution of electricity.
They monitor systems, balance loads, respond to outages, and reroute power as needed.
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Positions are based in control centers, coordinating field crews who maintain and repair equipment.
A high school diploma with technical training is required, along with on-the-job experience. Licensure may be needed for advanced positions.
7. Avionics Technician
Average Annual Salary: $84,210
Avionics technicians test, install and repair the electronic instruments and systems that aircraft rely on for navigation and communication.
They work with radar, radios, autopilot, and guidance systems. FAA certification is required via military training or a two-year associate’s degree.
Technicians may work on aircraft, in repair shops, or for equipment manufacturers. Strong math, electronics, and problem-solving skills are essential.
8. Mining and Geological Engineer
Average Annual Salary: $82,680
Mining and geological engineers design mines to extract coal, metals, and minerals in the safest, most efficient manner possible.
They determine resource locations, plan extraction points and transport routes, and monitor mining operations.
A bachelor’s degree in mining engineering or geological engineering is required.
Demand for engineers should be strong as mining companies seek new reserves and improve productivity.
9. Nuclear Engineer
Average Annual Salary: $81,480
Nuclear engineers conduct hazardous materials analysis, design nuclear systems, and monitor nuclear plants.
They develop applications for nuclear energy and radiation like medicine, manufacturing, and power generation.
A bachelor’s degree in nuclear engineering and state licensure are required to work in power generation facilities.
With increasing interest in alternative energy, nuclear engineering provides good opportunities.
10. Transportation Manager
Average Annual Salary: $79,420
Transportation managers coordinate logistics and distribution operations for any mode of transport: road, rail, air, or sea.
They manage freight services, fleet maintenance, routing, storage, and more to keep supply chains running efficiently.
Most positions require a bachelor’s degree in logistics, business, or supply chain management and several years of operations experience. Growth in international trade will drive demand.
11. Petroleum Engineer
Average Annual Salary: $79,360
Petroleum engineers evaluate oil and gas well sites, oversee drilling operations, and design extraction processes.
Their work maximizes efficiency and productivity while minimizing environmental impacts. A bachelor’s degree in petroleum engineering is required.
Ample career opportunities are available domestically and abroad, as petroleum products are vital energy sources.
12. Air Traffic Controller
Average Annual Salary: $76,540
Air traffic controllers direct aircraft in the skies and on the ground, using radar and communication systems.
They monitor flight paths, provide weather updates and landing guidance, and manage air traffic density. Controllers must complete FAA training and certification.
Applicants must have related aviation experience and strong aptitudes in math, multi-tasking, and focus. The role carries major responsibility for safety.
13. Geological and Petroleum Technician
Average Annual Salary: $75,830
Geological and petroleum technicians support scientists and engineers in exploring Earth’s resources.
They set up and maintain field equipment, collect and analyze geological data, and produce charts, maps, and diagrams.
An associate’s degree in applied science is sufficient for technician roles. Oil, gas, mining operations, and environmental monitoring drive demand.
14. Civil Engineer
Average Annual Salary: $74,710
Civil engineers plan, design and supervise major infrastructure projects like roads, buildings, bridges, tunnels, dams, and utilities.
They evaluate project sites, test materials, manage budgets and coordinate with regulatory agencies.
A bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and professional licensure is required.
Infrastructure renewal and development projects will sustain the demand for qualified civil engineers.
15. Electrical Power-Line Installer and Repairer
Average Annual Salary: $71,960
Electrical power-line workers install and maintain the power grid that delivers electricity to homes and businesses.
They work with high-voltage lines, cables, transformers, and other equipment.
Extensive training through an apprenticeship program is required, which combines classroom instruction with on-the-job training.
Demand stems from grid upgrades, maintenance needs, and natural disasters.
16. Water/Wastewater Engineer
Average Annual Salary: $70,650
Water/wastewater engineers design systems to supply clean water and remove waste.
They oversee reservoirs, pumping stations, treatment plants, and sewage systems. A bachelor’s degree in environmental or civil engineering is required.
Demand is steady due to population growth, greater water usage, and a focus on environmental protections.
17. Transportation Inspector
Average Annual Salary: $67,960
Transportation inspectors examine vehicle equipment and operating conditions for compliance with regulations.
They audit documents like driver logs, weigh trucks, inspect cargo and equipment, and enforce safety and transportation laws.
Inspectors work for regulatory agencies, trucking firms, and transit authorities. Training requirements vary, but commercial driving experience is an asset.
18. Wind Turbine Technician
Average Annual Salary: $65,380
Wind turbine technicians install, inspect and repair wind turbines. They conduct routine maintenance, troubleshoot issues and replace components as necessary.
While postsecondary education is preferred, employers typically provide on-the-job training.
Strong growth in wind power should sustain excellent job opportunities, especially for those willing to work at wind farms located in remote areas.
19. Commercial Pilot
Average Annual Salary: $63,420
Commercial pilots operate aircraft to transport passengers, cargo, and other commercial purposes.
They must hold a commercial pilot’s certificate with instrument rating and may need additional category ratings based on aircraft type.
Some commercial pilots advance to the major airlines, but many pursue rewarding careers flying private jets, helicopters, air ambulances, or scenic tours.
20. Boilermaker
Average Annual Salary: $61,320
Boilermakers assemble, install and repair boiler components like plates, tubes, and valves.
This physically demanding work occurs in cramped spaces and at great heights. A rigorous 4 to 5-year apprenticeship combines classroom and on-site training.
Job opportunities are excellent due to an aging workforce and increasing retirements. Industry growth will also boost demand.
Conclusion
The basic industries offer rewarding careers with good pay if you want to pursue the appropriate training and education.
Opportunities range from advanced engineering roles to hands-on technician and operator positions.
With an aging infrastructure and workforce, demand for skilled tradespeople will continue to grow.
If you enjoy building, fixing, powering, or operating essential equipment, there are several best-paying jobs in the basic industries ready for you.
