The Highest-Paying Blue-Collar Jobs in 2026

Ready to build a future in a blue-collar industry? Our Highest Paying Blue-Collar Jobs Report includes job titles, median annual salaries, and the number of openings for each of these top-earning roles in the United States.

1. Elevator and escalator technician

• Median annual salary: $106,580
• Median hourly wage: $51.24
• Top 10% of earners: $149,250
• Number of jobs: 24,200
• Estimated job growth (2024–2034): 5%
• Education: High school diploma or equivalent

Requirements and working conditions

These technicians install and maintain systems that transport people, like elevators, escalators, moving walkways, and dumbwaiters (small freight lifts). They’re responsible for both the installation and repair of equipment, along with performing regular safety checks to ensure smooth operation.

While the role can be financially rewarding, it’s physically demanding. Technicians often work full-time in elevator shafts or cramped machine rooms. Overtime is common, and some technicians may be on-call 24/7.

In addition to a high school diploma, elevator technicians usually undergo an apprenticeship to learn the necessary skills. Most states also require them to be licensed.

2. Electrical power-line installer and repairer

• Median annual salary: $92,560
• Median hourly wage: $44.50
• Top 10% of earners: $126,610
• Number of jobs: 127,400
• Estimated job growth (2024–2034): 7%
• Education: High school diploma or equivalent

Requirements and working conditions

These technicians, often called lineworkers, work on the nation’s power grid. They install, repair, and maintain high-voltage power lines and equipment such as poles, towers, and transformers that bring electricity to homes and businesses.

This job is one of the most physically demanding and hazardous roles on our list. Lineworkers often work at great heights, handling high-voltage electricity either from bucket trucks or by climbing poles. They frequently work in challenging weather conditions and are regularly on-call for emergency repairs after storms or power outages.

To enter the occupation, workers typically complete a multi-year apprenticeship, which combines technical instruction with paid on-the-job training to ensure safety.

3. Aircraft avionics equipment mechanic and technician

• Median annual salary: $79,140
• Median hourly wage: $38.05
• Top 10% of earners: $120,080
• Number of jobs: 160,800
• Estimated job growth (2024–2034): 5%
• Education: Postsecondary nondegree award (FAA-approved program)

Requirements and working conditions

These technicians ensure the safety of airplanes by inspecting, maintaining, and repairing all parts of the aircraft, including engines, landing gear, and avionics (the electronic systems such as navigation and communication). They run tests, diagnose problems, and meticulously document their work.

This job requires precise attention to detail, as even small errors can jeopardize flight safety. The work environment is usually in airport hangars or on airfields, which can be noisy.

To get the required license from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), technicians must pass a series of exams. There are two main routes: graduating from an FAA-approved school or gaining 30 months of paid, on-the-job experience working on aircraft. Some school programs offered through community colleges also allow students to earn an associate’s degree.

4. Railroad worker

• Median annual salary: $75,680
• Median hourly wage: $36.38
• Top 10% of earners: $100,130
• Number of jobs: 77,900
• Estimated job growth (2024–2034): 1%
• Education: High school diploma or equivalent

Requirements and working conditions

These workers make sure trains and cargo reach their destinations safely and on time. The specific duties vary by role. For example, conductors manage the train’s crew, handle paperwork, and coordinate car switches.

Other workers, like yardmasters and switch operators, function as railway traffic controllers, directing train movement within rail yards so that cars are routed to the right tracks.

Railroad work often takes place outdoors in all kinds of weather, and schedules can be unpredictable, with many workers on call for nights, weekends, and holidays.

A high school diploma is the usual starting point. New hires undergo several months of paid, on-the-job training, which includes both classroom learning and hands-on work to learn safety regulations and operating procedures.

5. Stationary engineer and boiler operator

• Median annual salary: $75,190
• Median hourly wage: $36.15
• Top 10% of earners: $121,200
• Number of jobs: 33,300
• Estimated job growth (2024–2034): 2%
• Education: High school diploma or equivalent

Requirements and working conditions

These engineers and operators are responsible for maintaining the systems that provide essential utilities like heat, air conditioning, and power to large buildings and industrial plants. They oversee equipment like boilers, engines, turbines, and compressors, with a key focus on monitoring systems to ensure they run safely and efficiently.

Given the continuous operation of these facilities, schedules often include night, weekend, and holiday shifts.

Most workers enter this field through a formal apprenticeship or long-term on-the-job training. Because of the risks associated with handling high-pressure equipment, many states and cities require a special license to operate boilers, which typically involves passing an exam.

6. Industrial machinery mechanic

• Median annual salary: $63,510
• Median hourly wage: $30.53
• Top 10% of earners: $85,970
• Number of jobs: 538,300
• Estimated job growth (2024–2034): 13%
• Education: High school diploma and apprenticeship

Requirements and working conditions

These mechanics are the problem-solvers who keep factories and production plants running smoothly. They install and maintain complex machinery that makes everything from cars to food products. Mechanics also conduct regular check-ups and service to prevent breakdowns and production delays.

When a machine fails, mechanics have to quickly diagnose the issue — whether mechanical, electrical, or hydraulic— and fix it, often by reading blueprints and using precision tools.

Many mechanics learn through multi-year, on-the-job training or a formal apprenticeship. Another common path is earning an associate’s degree in industrial maintenance, which provides a strong start and can lead to faster promotions.

7. Plumber, pipefitter, and steamfitter

• Median annual salary: $62,970
• Median hourly wage: $30.27
• Top 10% of earners: $105,150
• Number of jobs: 504,500
• Estimated job growth (2024–2034): 4%
• Education: High school diploma or equivalent

Requirements and working conditions

These tradespeople install and repair essential piping systems for homes, businesses, and factories. While the jobs overlap, plumbers focus on systems that carry water, drainage, and gas. Pipefitters and steamfitters specialize in industrial systems, installing and maintaining pipes that move chemicals, acids, or high-pressure steam.

Because a burst pipe can’t wait, plumbers are often on call, with evening and weekend shifts common. Plumbers can also expect to be on call during holiday periods, but doing so often comes with higher pay.

The most common path to enter the field is through a 4- or 5-year paid apprenticeship, combining on-the-job training with classroom learning. Some individuals start at a vocational school before entering an apprenticeship. To ensure public safety, most states require plumbers to be licensed.

8. Wind turbine technician

• Median annual salary: $62,580
• Median hourly wage: $30.09
• Top 10% of earners: $88,090
• Number of jobs: 13,600
• Estimated job growth (2024–2034): 50%
• Education: Postsecondary nondegree award

Requirements and working conditions

These technicians, often called wind techs, are responsible for installing, maintaining, and inspecting the giant wind turbines that generate electricity. Their duties range from inspecting blades for damage to troubleshooting complex electrical and mechanical systems.

Working on wind turbines is physically demanding and isn’t for anyone with a fear of heights. Wind techs regularly work hundreds of feet in the air, climbing ladders and using safety harnesses while doing their job in all kinds of weather. Due to the remote locations of most wind farms, the role involves travel.

Most wind techs get started by earning a certificate or an associate’s degree from a technical school or community college. After graduation, they receive several months of on-the-job training from their employer to learn from experienced technicians.

9. Electrician

• Median annual salary: $62,350
• Median hourly wage: $29.98
• Top 10% of earners: $106,030
• Number of jobs: 818,700
• Estimated job growth (2024–2034): 9%
• Education: High school diploma or equivalent

Requirements and working conditions

Electricians are responsible for bringing power and light to our buildings. They work on electrical systems in homes, businesses, and factories, which involves reading blueprints, running wires through walls, and connecting outlets, light fixtures, and breaker panels.

The work can be physically demanding, often requiring electricians to work in tight spaces or on ladders. Many electricians specialize in a specific field, either focusing on new construction or handling maintenance and repairs in existing buildings. Due to the urgency of power outages, evening and weekend work is common, especially for those in service and repair. Like many other trades, overtime pay is often generous.

The most common path into the trade is through a 4- or 5-year paid apprenticeship program, which combines classroom instruction with thousands of hours of on-the-job training under the supervision of experienced electricians. Some people begin by attending a technical school to learn the basics. Most states and cities require electricians to be licensed, which involves passing an exam to prove their expertise.

10. Solar photovoltaic (PV) installer

• Median annual salary: $51,860
• Median hourly wage: $24.93
• Top 10% of earners: $80,150
• Number of jobs: 28,600
• Estimated job growth (2024–2034): 42%
• Education: High school diploma or equivalent

Requirements and working conditions

These installers, also called PV installers, put up solar panel systems that convert sunlight into electricity. Their tasks involve deciding on the best placement for panels, mounting support structures on rooftops or the ground, and connecting the panels and wiring to the building’s electrical grid.

Installing solar panels is a physically demanding role that’s primarily outdoors, though installers may sometimes work in attics and crawl spaces to complete system connections. The job also requires frequent travel to different job sites.

A high school diploma is usually all that’s needed to get started. New installers then receive paid, on-the-job training, which can last for several months to a year, learning the trade from experienced professionals. Some installers begin with courses at a technical school first to get a foundation in electrical systems and solar technology.

Tips for applying for blue-collar jobs

If you’re ready to apply for a blue-collar job, these tips will help you get started:

1. Research the specific trade you’re interested in

Each trade has its own training programs and requirements, so thoroughly researching the field you’re interested in before applying is essential. The Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook website is a great resource for information on training and education requirements.

Additionally, social media offers great insights into the daily life of blue-collar workers: Platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram feature first-hand accounts that can give you a good understanding of what working in your chosen industry is like.

2. Look into different apprenticeships or training programs

If your chosen trade requires certifications or an apprenticeship, you can search for these near you. Websites like apprenticeship.gov or your state’s Department of Labor website are great for finding available programs.

Many trade unions offer apprenticeship programs that combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Additionally, community colleges may offer work–study programs in your field.

3. Take advantage of your network

A personal referral is one of the most effective ways to get your foot in the door for a blue-collar job. Often, employers prefer hiring through personal references because referred candidates tend to stay with the company longer.

Ask friends and family if they know anyone working in a skilled trade who can put in a good word for you at their company.

Local trade-specific Facebook groups often share job opportunities before they’re publicly posted, so join as many as you can.

Frequently asked questions about blue-collar jobs

If you’re still curious, here are the answers to the most commonly asked questions about blue-collar jobs:

1. What are blue-collar jobs?

Blue-collar jobs involve manual labor and typically require expertise gained through on-the-job training. These roles differ from white-collar jobs, which usually take place in office settings.

Common blue-collar industries include:

• Construction
• Farming and fishing
• Mining and drilling
• Transportation and material moving
• Energy generation and infrastructure

2. What blue-collar jobs pay the most?

The five highest-paying blue-collar jobs on our list are:

1. Elevator and escalator installers and repairers
2. Electrical power-line installers and repairers
3. Aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians
4. Railroad workers
5. Stationary engineers and boiler operators

3. What blue-collar jobs are in demand?

According to growth projections from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, wind turbine technicians are expected to be the fastest-growing blue-collar job over the next decade, with a projected increase of 50%.

The blue-collar field with the largest number of workers is electricians, numbering 818,700 workers and rising.

Methodology

This report identifies the top 10 highest-paying blue-collar jobs in the U.S. by analyzing federal employment data to find careers offering a strong balance of high wages, accessibility, and long-term career security.

All occupational data was sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labour Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook using the most recent datasets for salary (May 2024) and employment projections (2024–2034).

To create the initial list of occupations, we applied a multi-step filtering process to define what qualifies as a “blue-collar” job. Then, we isolated only occupations with a May 2024 median annual salary of at least $49,500, the median wage for all occupations in the U.S. We also filtered for jobs requiring no more than a high school diploma or equivalent for entry-level positions, emphasizing careers accessible without a four-year college degree. Finally, only occupations with a positive projected employment growth rate for the 2024–2034 period were considered, ensuring long-term stability.

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