7 Top Blue-Collar Jobs for Gen Z That Will Earn You a Big Paycheck in 2025

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Blue-collar jobs are becoming increasingly attractive, especially as younger generations shift away from pursuing four-year degrees, according to Eva Chan, lead career expert at Resume Genius.

She explained that with more individuals opting for trade schools and on-the-job training, competition for well-paying positions in these industries is expected to rise. Additionally, she said that job seekers can take advantage of government apprenticeships and community college programs that offer specialized training and pre-licensing opportunities for these careers.

According to Resume Genius, here are the top five blue-collar jobs for Gen Z to earn a big paycheck in 2025. 

Elevator Technician

• Median annual salary: $102,420
• Education level: High school diploma (or equivalent)
• Number of jobs: 24,400

An elevator technician uses engineering and electrical skills to install, maintain and repair elevators, escalators and moving walkways. They make sure these systems function as intended in public and private spaces by handling tasks like wiring, testing equipment and reviewing blueprints and machinery specifications.

Power Plant Operators

• Median annual salary: $100,890
• Education level: High school diploma (or equivalent)
• Number of jobs: 47,400

A power plant operator manages systems that produce and distribute electricity. The job entails maintaining safe and efficient plant operations, with specific tasks varying based on the facility and their responsibilities.

Electrical Power-Line Installers and Repairers

• Median annual salary: $85,420
• Education level: High school diploma (or equivalent)
• Number of jobs: 123,400

Electrical power-line installers and repairers set up and maintain the wires, cables and equipment that deliver electricity to homes and businesses.

Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanics and Technicians

• Median annual salary: $75,400 
• Education level: Post-secondary non-degree award
• Number of jobs: 163,300

Aircraft and avionics mechanics and technicians keep aircraft operating safely and reliably by performing maintenance, repairs and inspections. They follow Federal Aviation Administration rules that set schedules for maintenance. Some work on many types of aircraft, like planes and helicopters, while others focus on specific parts, like engines or hydraulic systems.

Railroad Workers

• Median annual salary: $73,580
• Education level: High school diploma (or equivalent)
• Number of jobs: 83,000

Railroad workers make sure trains run safely and on time. Some drive trains, some manage train schedules and others control signals and switches in the rail yard. Their jobs include checking trains for mechanical problems, reporting issues and driving engines between stations.

Boilermakers

• Median annual salary: $71,140
• Education: High school diploma (or equivalent)
• Number of jobs: 11,300

Boilermakers build, install and maintain boilers and large tanks. They read blueprints to figure out where parts go, assemble and weld boiler tanks and test systems for leaks or defects. Their work also includes cleaning vats, replacing broken parts and making repairs with tools and welding equipment.

Construction and Building Inspectors

• Median annual salary: $67,700
• Education: High school diploma (or equivalent)
• Number of jobs: 142,600

Construction and building inspectors make sure buildings are safe and meet codes. They review building plans, check construction sites and inspect systems like plumbing and electrical to ensure everything is up to standard. They use tools to find issues, such as leaks or faulty wiring, and can stop work if rules aren’t followed. Inspectors also keep detailed records, take photos and write reports on their findings.

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