Blue-collar work is having a moment — and Gen Z is helping drive it.
According to a May 2025 Resume Builder survey of 1,434 young adults, about two in five Gen Zers are pursuing blue-collar careers. Many are choosing hands-on trades over the traditional college route. Federal data also shows that vocational and trade programs are expanding fast.
A big reason behind the shift is money. Young workers increasingly see skilled trades as a path to strong pay without taking on heavy student debt, especially as college costs keep rising.
With that in mind, career site Resume Genius recently released a list of the 10 highest-paying blue-collar jobs.
What counts as a blue-collar job?
Investopedia defines blue-collar jobs as roles typically performed outside of an office, often involving manual labor or specialized trade skills.
“These are high-paying jobs with good growth, and they don’t require a degree,” said Nathan Soto, author of the Resume Genius report. Soto pointed to trades like pipe fitting as proof that six-figure incomes are realistic without a four-year diploma.
Many of the jobs on the list are tied to energy, infrastructure, and transportation — fields that are vital, growing, and, at least for now, less vulnerable to automation.
The 10 highest-paying blue-collar jobs
1. Elevator and escalator technician
These technicians install, repair, and maintain elevators, escalators, and moving walkways. Median salary: $106,580 (2024). Top 10% earners: $149,250. Typically requires a high school diploma.
2. Electrical powerline installer and repairer
Line workers keep the power grid running. Median salary: $92,560. Top 10%: $126,610. Strong job growth, usually requiring only a high school diploma. The work is physically intense and often involves climbing poles and working from bucket trucks.
3. Aircraft avionics equipment mechanic and technician
These workers maintain critical aircraft electronics and safety systems. Median salary: $79,140. Top 10%: $120,080. Usually requires postsecondary training and can involve noisy, high-focus environments.
4. Railroad worker
Railroad jobs range from train operations to yard and track work. Median salary: $75,680. Top 10%: $100,130. Generally needs a high school diploma with on-the-job training. Expect outdoor work and irregular hours.
5. Stationary engineer and boiler operator
They oversee heating, cooling, and power systems in large facilities. Median salary: $75,190. Top 10%: $121,200. Typically requires a high school diploma, often paired with apprenticeship training.
6. Industrial machinery mechanic
Factory operations depend on these mechanics to keep equipment running. Median salary: $63,510. Top 10%: $85,970. Usually requires a diploma and apprenticeship.
7. Plumber, pipefitter, and steamfitter
They install and repair systems carrying water, gas, steam, and chemicals in homes and businesses. Median salary: $62,970. Top 10%: $105,150. High school diploma plus apprenticeship is the standard path.
8. Wind turbine technician
These techs install and service wind turbines, often at major heights in remote areas. Median salary: $62,580. Top 10%: $88,090. Strong growth outlook; postsecondary credential usually required.
9. Electrician
Electricians wire, maintain, and troubleshoot electrical systems. Median salary: $62,350. Top 10%: $106,030. High school diploma and paid apprenticeship are common. Overtime can significantly boost earnings.
10. Solar photovoltaic installer
Solar installers set up and connect solar panel systems. Median salary: $51,860. Top 10%: $80,150. Usually accessible with a high school diploma, and job growth is steady as solar demand expands.
