Top 10 Entry-Level Blue-Collar Jobs: Salaries, Skills, and Opportunities for New Workers

• Construction laborers play a vital role in ensuring the success of building projects.
• Their tasks include digging trenches, moving materials, and supporting skilled tradespeople.
• Typically, a high school diploma is required, along with physical fitness and safety training.
• The average salary for construction laborers is approximately $37,000 annually.
• This role can serve as a stepping stone to specialized trades such as carpentry or plumbing.

• HVAC installers are responsible for creating comfortable indoor environments by installing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
• Entry-level technicians assist seasoned installers with tasks like measuring ducts and conducting system tests.
• A high school diploma and vocational training or apprenticeship are generally necessary.
• The average salary for HVAC installers is around $48,000 per year.
• Pathways to advancement lead to roles as service technicians or system designers.

• General laborers are versatile workers who contribute across various industries, including construction and warehousing.
• Their duties may include loading materials and performing routine maintenance.
• This role typically requires minimal experience, making it ideal for newcomers to the job market.
• While a high school diploma is preferred, on-the-job training is common.
• The average salary is about $35,000 annually.
• General laborers can easily transition to specialized positions as they gain experience.

• Apprentices in diesel mechanics learn to diagnose and repair diesel engines under experienced mechanics.
• Responsibilities include routine maintenance and inspections.
• Candidates should ideally have a high school diploma and a keen interest in automotive technology.
• The average salary for diesel mechanics is approximately $50,000.
• Apprenticeships provide a structured pathway to certification and increased earnings.

• Electrician helpers support licensed electricians with tasks involving wiring, fixtures, and electrical systems.
• Duties include transporting tools and performing basic electrical tasks under supervision.
• A high school diploma is usually required, but no formal experience is necessary.
• Average earnings for electrician helpers hover around $40,000 per year, making this an excellent starting point for those aiming to become licensed electricians.

• Warehouse associates are integral to the storage and distribution of goods.
• Handling tasks such as order picking and inventory management.
• While a high school diploma is preferred, many employers offer on-the-job training.
• The average salary for warehouse associates is about $36,000 annually.
• This role can lead to supervisory positions in logistics and supply chain management.

• Plumbing apprentices work under the guidance of licensed plumbers, learning to install pipes and fixtures.
• Their responsibilities include measuring and cutting pipes and assisting with repairs.
• Generally, a high school diploma and completion of an apprenticeship program are required.
• The average salary for plumbers is approximately $54,000.
• Apprentices gain invaluable experience that positions them for future certification and higher wages.

• Landscape laborers perform various outdoor tasks, including planting and maintaining gardens.
• They often operate equipment like lawnmowers.
• They may not require a high school diploma, making this role accessible to many.
• The average earnings for landscape laborers are about $35,000 per year.
• There are advancement opportunities into landscaping design or management roles.

• Forklift operators are responsible for moving materials in warehouses or construction sites using forklifts.
• Certification is typically required and can be obtained through training programs.
• Candidates should possess a high school diploma and good physical stamina.
• The average salary for forklift operators is around $39,000 annually.
• There is potential to advance into supervisory roles within warehouse operations.

• Installer technicians work across various sectors, installing equipment and systems for clients.
• Their duties include setup, troubleshooting, and providing customer support.
• A high school diploma is preferred, and on-the-job training is often available.
• The average salary for installer technicians is approximately $45,000.
• This position can lead to advanced roles with additional training.

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