10 Highest-Paying Blue-Collar Jobs for 2025

Executives in suits are not the only ones earning good money. There are plenty of blue-collar jobs that will provide a comfortable, if not luxurious, lifestyle.

Resume Genius did a study where they analyzed data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) to find the highest-paying occupations for blue-collar workers for 2025. Read on to see which jobs bring in the most cash, from highest to lowest.

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Elevator technicians are the highest-paid blue-collar job, bringing in a median annual salary of $102,420. This is likely because the job can sometimes require being on call for 24 hours, as well as working in tight spaces. Both elevator and escalator technicians need a high school diploma and to complete an apprenticeship before getting licensed to start working.

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Those working to generate and distribute electricity make $100,890 as a median annual salary. This requires working eight-hour or 12-hour shifts. Power plant operators need a high school diploma before receiving in-depth on-the-job training. They also need to obtain a license in order to work.

Working in power pays: these technicians earn $85,420 as a median annual salary. People installing and repairing power lines are often in harm’s way, especially during inclement weather, so it’s important they’re paid well for what they do. These workers typically need a high school diploma, to complete an apprenticeship program and get on-the-job training.

Technicians in aviation earn $75,400 as a median annual salary. They typically repair aircraft engines, electrical systems and other equipment. To qualify for a job, they need to complete an FAA-approved program and pass the FAA exams to qualify for a job. Some of these programs can be taken at community colleges, which can earn students an associates degree.

After earning a high school diploma and completing on-the-job training, railroad workers can expect to earn around $73,580. Their job can consist of a lot of responsibilities on the rails, including being a train conductor, engineer or switch controller.

It’s not just a drink — boilermakers can bring in some serious cash. The median annual salary is $71,140 and requires a high school diploma and the completion of an apprenticeship. Boilermakers are responsible for installing and repairing boilers, closed vats and other large vessels that contain gasses or liquids.

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