Get The Yulys App
Start your job search on-the-go and
never miss
a message or job alert.
Start your job search on-the-go and
never miss
a message or job alert.
No degree? No problem! Having a proper degree or certification does not ensure that you'll get a high paying job and won't have to struggle much. If you're an individual who has great manual skills but no degree, don't worry, we've got you covered.
In this article, we will explore the top 10 highest paying manual labor jobs that offer strong job security, and the opportunity to learn new things everyday.
Here's a list of top 10 high paying labor jobs that you can opt for:
Salary: $85,000 – $120,000+
Elevator installers and repairers earn upto 120,000 dollars per year. To get selected for the job you must have a High school diploma and apprenticeship. The reason it pays well is because working with elevators involves electrical systems, hydraulics, and mechanical troubleshooting which are all high-skill areas. It’s also a physically demanding and sometimes dangerous job thus the compensation is high and justified. Some positions come with excellent benefits and the demand for individuals is quite high in the urban world.
Salary: $95,000 – $140,000
Construction managers must have a High school diploma along with some experience working at project sites. The reason it pays more is because a construction manager oversees large-scale projects, supervises teams, ensures safety compliance, and manages budgets and timelines. There is a strong demand for construction managers in residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects across the U.S. and globally.
Salary: $80,000 – $110,000
This is another great highest paying manual labor job that requires a High school diploma and provides on-the-job training or apprenticeship. The reason it pays more is because these workers maintain electrical grids, a job that requires technical knowledge and physical strength. It also involves working in high-risk environments, especially during storms and outages. The job comes with a lot of benefits and utilities along with increased annual earnings.
Salary: $60,000 – $150,000+ (depending on role and experience)
Oil rig workers must have a high school diploma along with specialized training to land a job in this field. The reason it pays well is because oil rig jobs often involve harsh environments, long hours, and time away from home. However, they pay exceptionally well, especially for offshore positions.
Many individuals start as roughnecks and move up to become drillers or rig managers, which can bring six-figure salaries.
Salary: $60,000 – $90,000
Another highest paying manual job is that of an ironworker. To attain this job you must have a High school diploma along with apprenticeship to secure a good position.Ironworkers assemble the steel framework of buildings and bridges. The work is dangerous and highly skilled, often performed at great heights.
Salary: $50,000 – $90,000+ (with certifications and experience)
To secure a job as a HVAC technician one must have completed Trade school or apprenticeship. The reason it is considered to be the highest paying manual labor job is because the workers are responsible for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems that are essential to homes and businesses. Skilled technicians are always in demand and often make excellent income through maintenance contracts or self-employment.
Salary: $60,000 – $100,000
To become a crane operator you must have a High school diploma and a certification. Crane operators lift heavy loads at construction sites, ports, and factories. Precision and safety are critical, and the equipment is expensive, making skilled operators indispensable. Some positions require travel or working in remote areas, with bonuses for time away from home.
Salary: $70,000 – $150,000+
This job requires you to have a commercial driving licence and certifications. Whether it’s underwater welding, ship repair, or pipeline inspection, commercial diving combines risk with rare technical skills. Work can be seasonal or project-based, but pay is great, especially for offshore workers.
Salary: $55,000 – $95,000
To become an electrician you must have some experience along with a license to work as one. Electricians are crucial in every construction and maintenance project. As homes and buildings become smarter, the need for qualified electricians continues to grow. Many electricians go on to start their own business and earn even more.
Salary: $60,000 – $100,000+
Plumbers need apprenticeship and a license to start working in this field. Just like electricians, plumbers are always in demand, for everything from fixing pipes to installing entire plumbing systems. There are always chances of emergency jobs and after-hours calls that can significantly boost their income.
These careers aren’t for everyone. They require stamina, hands-on effort, sometimes long hours, and a willingness to work in non-traditional environments. However, for the right individual, they offer high earning potential without the need of a college degree, job stability, freedom to start your own company and so many other perks and benefits.
If you’re a problem-solver, enjoy working with your hands, and want to avoid the 9-to-5 desk life, one of these high-paying labor jobs might be your ideal fit.
In a world where college degrees often come with massive debt and uncertain job markets, labor jobs offer a refreshing alternative. These careers are not only financially rewarding but also deeply fulfilling. With the right training, commitment, and mindset, you can build a bright future for you and your family.
So whether you're just starting out or considering a career change, these jobs are like hidden gems waiting to be captured by you.
©YulysLLC - 2025 All Rights Reserved | Terms of Service | Privacy Policy | Data Deletion | Yulys Ads Program