The Best Blue-Collar Jobs

A blue-collar worker is defined as an employee who "performs manual labor and earns an hourly wage" (en.Wikipedia.org). The labor involved in his or her work is either skilled or unskilled, depending on how complicated the job is. They differ from the white collar worker, who normally supervises them and performs non-manual labor.

There may be many reasons why you want to get a blue-collar job. You may have just graduated from high school and are looking for your first job. You also could have graduated from college with a degree. After job searching, you may not be able to find something that is in your field of study. Rather than wasting another four years to get another degree, getting a blue-collar job gives you the best opportunities for growth. A blue-collar job is also an excellent opportunity if you have been recently unemployed.

Automobile mechanics are in high demand in any area. With, the rising costs of new cars, people would rather make necessary repairs to keep their current automobiles in good condition. While some places require a degree in automotive technology, other places offer on-the-job training.
If you would like to have a job as a machinist, where you make parts from a set of blueprints, many companies offer an apprenticeship program. The program may require a specific number of training hours before you make the top rate.

If you like to work in people's homes, think about becoming a carpet installer or a roofer. You will need basic skills, such as math. Most companies offer on-the-job training. With the high demand of these and other home improvement jobs, expect to make over $30,000 a year.

Any manufacturing firm offers excellent opportunities for employment and growth. When you are hired at a plant, you are usually placed in an entry-level position. For example, you may have a position that requires you to inspect parts. Even though this position is the lowest paying, you can still make a high income. As your experience grows in the plant, more opportunities come your way. For example, you may get a higher paying blue-collar position or may even become a shift supervisor.

These are just a few of the many blue-collar jobs. Check out what is available through your local employment office. See what requirements are needed for each position and see if you have the skills that are necessary. Once you have decided what you want to do, make sure that you are willing to be a hard worker and learn from your training.