Not all jobs are created equal. Some careers come with prestige and glamour, while others remain in the shadows, overlooked by many. These jobs may not be glamorous, but they offer substantial paychecks.
In this article, we’ll explore jobs that might be messy, tough, or a little dangerous but worth checking out if you’re looking for good money.
Oil Well Rig Driller
Average Annual Salary: $70,000
Imagine enduring long, rotating shifts at sea, cleaning equipment, and operating massive drills. That’s the life of an oil well rig driller, a job that offers a hefty salary despite requiring no formal education.
Research suggests a concerning trend – a higher prevalence of anxiety and depression among oil and gas industry workers. While the work-life balance might be non-existent and the conditions tough, it’s a well-paying option.
Slaughterhouse Worker
Average Annual Salary: $38,000
Not for the faint of heart, slaughterhouse workers tackle the essential but emotionally challenging job of preparing meat for consumption. While the pay can be decent, and no formal education is required, the graphic nature of the work turns many away.
Mortician
Average Annual Salary: $50,000
A mortician’s job goes beyond dressing the dearly departed. It involves meticulous tasks like preparing bodies for viewings, which can be demanding for the squeamish. However, for those with the composure to handle such duties, this career offers stability, decent pay, and the satisfaction of providing comfort during a difficult time. While a Bachelor’s degree is required, the financial rewards might surprise you.
Proctologist
Average Annual Salary: $226,000
Proctologists specialize in diagnosing and treating rectal and anal issues. While the work might not win you popularity contests, it comes with a hefty salary of over $226,000 annually.
Lead Sewage Plant Worker
Average Annual Salary: $59,000
The lead sewage plant worker’s job may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but they play a vital role in maintaining healthy communities and our sanitation systems. While the work environment might not be great, with darkness, unpleasant odors, and unwelcome guests, the financial rewards can be substantial. The job offers a solid salary and doesn’t require a college degree. This career path is perfect for those who can handle the environment and want to step into a secure, well-paying job.
Crime Scene Cleaner
Average annual salary: 72,000
Crime scene cleaners tackle the aftermath of traumatic events, removing biohazards and restoring the scene. While the pay is attractive, exceeding $72,000 annually, the reality is far from the glamorized TV portrayals. Expect to encounter hazardous materials, tight spaces, and emotionally taxing situations. This line of work is not for the faint of heart.
Elevator Repairer
Average Annual Salary: $77,000
Elevator repairer is a crucial but often overlooked profession with a surprising perk: a high salary. While the work might not be glamorous, it offers a stable career path with a growing job market. The job involves assembling and repairing elevators based on blueprints, ensuring safe and efficient transportation for occupants.
Hazardous Material Worker
Average Annual Salary: $40,000
Hazmat workers tackle hazardous materials, like asbestos and radioactive waste, that are a threat to public safety. The meticulous safety procedures and potential risks make it a job few would choose but one that’s undeniably well-compensated. The pay starts at around $40,000 annually and can be higher in big cities.
Coal Miner
Average Annual Salary: $50,000
A coal miner’s job is harsh, dangerous, and demanding. The constant threat of accidents and the long-term health risks from dust and chemicals are grim realities.
Add to that the darkness, grime, and cramped conditions, and it’s no wonder few find this appealing. However, for those who can handle the challenge, coal mining offers a decent salary, reaching around $50,000 annually, and doesn’t require a college degree.
Highway Patrol Officers
Average Annual Salary: $43,000
Highway patrol officers ensure safety and order on our highways. Enduring the occasional verbal tirade from rush-hour motorists is part of the job description, but it’s a path worth considering for those who value public service and road safety.
While the early morning shifts may not be everyone’s cup of coffee, this profession offers decent pay.
Landfill Operator
Average Annual Salary: $47,000
Landfill operators play a vital role in our waste management system. Their duties involve operating heavy machinery to manage trash and using treatments to control pests and hazards.
Long-term exposure to waste can lead to health issues, so proper precautions are necessary. It’s not a job for everyone, but one that keeps our communities clean.
Crop Duster Pilot
Average Annual Salary: $80,000
Forget fancy airlines and soaring through the clouds. Crop duster pilots are a different breed. They zip low over fields, spraying crops with pesticides to keep them healthy. It’s no walk in the park – think dodging power lines, long hours, and breathing in chemicals. But the pay is sky-high for those who can handle it!
Truck Driver
Average Annual Salary: $78,000
Hitting the open road might sound romantic, but truck driving is demanding. Long hours, being away from home, and lacking daily activity can be drawbacks.
Truck drivers often experience stressful working conditions that could affect their physical and mental health. However, for those who enjoy solitude, truck driving offers a good salary and benefits and doesn’t need a college degree.
Plumber
Average Annual Salary: $55,000
Plumbers may not be the most envied profession, but they are highly skilled and well-compensated. They tackle clogged drains, messy situations, and tight spaces. These skilled tradespeople are in high demand, and their work keeps our homes running smoothly. A college degree is optional, and the pay reflects their expertise, often exceeding expectations.