6 Blue-Collar Jobs You’ll Want To Switch to Now To Make Big Money
Written by
Angela Mae
Edited by
Amber Barkley
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You don’t have to be a C-suite executive to make good money. These days, you could make six figures working a traditional blue-collar job. Depending on the position, you might even find more stability than you would working a white-collar job.
Blue-collar work can be lucrative, rewarding and give you the lifestyle you want. If you’re thinking about making a career change, here are some of the highest-paying blue-collar jobs to consider. Note that the median annual wages listed only indicate what workers in the middle earn — half of all professionals earn more.
Elevator or Escalator Technician
- Median annual wage: $106,580
- Job outlook: 6% growth
- Related work experience requirement: None
The life of an elevator or escalator tech can be both rewarding and demanding. Prepare to spend your days working in tight spaces like elevator shafts and to be on-call for repairs and maintenance.
You don’t need prior experience, but you’ll need to work as an apprentice and get licensed in your state.
Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanic
- Median annual wage: $79,140
- Job outlook: 5% growth
- Related work experience requirement: None
As an aircraft and avionics equipment mechanic or technician, you’ll install, test and repair aircraft systems and equipment. You might find your days spent in a hangar, on the airfield or in a repair station, so expect loud, long days.
The plus side is that, aside from being well-paid, you’ll typically only need a certificate — like one approved by the Federal Aviation Administration — to qualify.
Construction and Building Inspector
- Median annual wage: $72,120
- Job outlook: No change
- Related work experience requirement: 5 years minimum
As a construction and building inspector, your primary job is to ensure buildings are up to code and meet any zoning regulations or other required specifications. These jobs aren’t expected to see any real growth, but nor are they on the decline.
If you’re looking for stable employment that can be physically demanding, this could be a good option.
Railroad Worker
- Median annual wage: $75,680
- Job outlook: 2% growth
- Related work experience requirement: None
Like many blue-collar jobs, you’ll typically need a high school diploma and some on-the-job training to become a railroad worker. Pay is good and work is generally steady — most professionals work full time or get paid overtime.
Your job entails ensuring the operational safety of passenger and freight trains, often done by driving the trains, coordinating train activity or controlling switches and signals in the rail yard.
Stationary Engineer and Boiler Operator
- Median annual wage: $75,190
- Job outlook: 4% growth
- Related work experience requirement: None
Most stationary engineers and boiler operators work in hospitals, educational services, manufacturing or government. Work is often full-time, but may have varied shifts.
You’ll generally need ongoing training, which you can get through on-the-job experience or an apprenticeship program. You may also need to take exams or become licensed before you can work without supervision.
Electrical Power-Line Installer and Repairer
- Median annual wage: $92,560
- Job outlook: 8% growth
- Related work experience requirement: None
All you need is a high school diploma or the equivalent to become an electrical installer or repairer, but it helps to have some electrical experience — either at a tech school or in high school. You can also gain related experience in an apprenticeship.
Your day-to-day will involve working on the wiring and electrical systems of household appliances and distribution systems.
Things To Consider Before Making the Switch
White-collar jobs don’t offer the security they once did. According to S&P Global, there were 497,000 layoffs in areas like accounting, legal services and business consultants in September 2024 alone. Shifting to a blue-collar job can be a smart move in today’s economy, especially if you’re seeking financial stability or a career change.
“People are waking up to the fact that corporate roles aren’t the safe bet anymore. Meanwhile, trades and skilled labor jobs are delivering six-figure salaries, real protections and room to grow without the gatekeeping,” said Patrice Williams-Lindo, workforce futurist, visibility strategist and CEO at Career Nomad. “That’s not just a pivot — it’s economic strategy.”
The Transition Might Not Be Easy
Just know that making the change isn’t always easy. There can be a bit of culture shock involved, especially if you’re not prepared.
“I’ve talked to people who underestimated the rigors — both physical and logistical — of entering a trade,” said Seann Malloy, founder and managing partner at Malloy Law Offices. “Others were unaware of the differing licensing requirements from state to state or how union rules could restrict job flexibility.”
Take the time you need to consider all your options and whether switching to blue-collar work is worth it for you. It might help to speak with other industry professionals or check out what’s required — and the growth potential.
Editor’s note: Median annual wages, job growth and work experience requirements were sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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Sources
- S&P Global, “Layoffs surge in US white collar jobs as rates, AI alter office work.”
- Patrice Williams-Lindo, Career Nomad
- Seann Malloy, Malloy Law Offices
