People often dismiss some jobs as unappealing while flat-out being unaware of some others—despite many of both raking in serious cash. Preconceived notions and career blind spots keep people away from opportunities open for those willing to look closer. So, here’s a list of jobs likely to be overlooked that reward you with serious paychecks!
Court Reporter
It’s not just “typing in court.” Court reporters meticulously capture every word in legal proceedings, with average salaries around $62,500 to $100,000 and potential top earnings exceeding $120,000. Mastering stenography requires precision and skill, which makes this overlooked profession essential to the justice system.
Wind Turbine Technician
Scaling wind turbines isn’t for everyone, but the paycheck might change your mind. Wind turbine technicians average $54,230 annually, though experienced professionals can earn closer to $70,000. Technicians ensure wind farms operate efficiently and contribute to renewable energy while staying far from typical desk jobs.
Elevator Installer/Repairer
Keeping skyscrapers running smoothly takes skill, and elevator technicians are the experts behind the scenes. These specialists earn a median salary of $80,751 annually. You can be one of them if you can land an apprenticeship with these specialists who ensure smooth rides in skyscrapers and large buildings.
Nuclear Power Reactor Operator
Running a nuclear reactor might sound intimidating, which is one of the reasons that stops people from considering this highly specialized job with a median salary of $120,526. Operators manage complex systems to ensure safety and efficiency, enabled by rigorous training. This career offers strong job security in the energy sector.
Air Traffic Controller
Intense focus and quick decision-making are part of the deal, and this lets air traffic controllers take home impressive earnings, with median salaries of $101,385. It’s not that hard to see why. Passenger safety hinges on them guiding planes through busy skies, which makes this high-pressure role critical and worthy of its paycheck.
Stenocaptioner
Transcription is so much more than a side gig. Take stenocaptioners, for example, who transcribe live events for broadcasts and earn salaries averaging around $59,954 and potentially exceeding $70,000 for skilled professionals. This is a job meant for the freelancing framework and may offer access to major events, which adds excitement.
Industrial Machinery Mechanic
Getting stained with grease while repairing machines in factories might not sound glamorous, but mechanics in this field earn a median salary of $50,387. Experienced professionals can even command wages closer to $75,000. After all, they ensure production lines run smoothly and enhance factory productivity.
Ethical Hacker
Interestingly, hacking isn’t always about shady schemes and identity theft. Ethical hackers, also called penetration testers, average $107,577 annually by identifying vulnerabilities in cybersecurity systems. They prevent the aforementioned schemes and thefts from happening because companies rely on these experts to safeguard sensitive data.
Crane Operator
Societal stigma misguides people into looking down on operating heavy machinery, like cranes, as a viable career. Operating a crane requires precision and training; consequently, crane operators earn a median salary of $49,538. Those working on major construction projects or with certifications often see earnings push beyond $80,000.
Utility Line Worker
Power outages need diligent workers to get on the problem right away, which is why utility line workers brave the elements to restore electricity. They aren’t complaining, however, because, with median salaries of $79,940 and good benefits, this high-risk job ensures steady employment while keeping the lights on.
Railroad Conductor
There used to be a time when children used to dress up as train conductors, but times have changed. What has also changed is that now it is a career with a median salary of $72,220. Conductors manage freight schedules and ensure passenger safety while keeping the lifeblood of a country’s logistics running smoothly and efficiently.
Geothermal Driller
Drilling in the dirt sounds unremarkable unless you’re drilling for geothermal energy. Geothermal energy requires skilled drillers, whose earnings typically range around $62,734. Those specializing in geothermal systems can see higher salaries, nearly $75,000, when they combine scientific knowledge with hands-on work.
Underwater Welder
If you think of operating a blowtorch as monotonous, you’ll be right. But what about operating a blowtorch underwater? Underwater welders handle submerged repairs and can earn $100,000 or more annually when they become experienced professionals. For someone who likes engineering and adventure, this job with high stakes and higher paychecks is for you.
Commercial Diver
This job lets you travel while also accommodating a wide variety of expertise. Commercial divers tackle underwater projects, which can include everything from bridge repairs to pipeline inspections. Their median salary is $57,273, but experienced divers can earn almost $90,000, depending on the job’s complexity and location.
Lighting Designer
What’s that word that comes before “Camera!” and “Action!” in the cliche director quote? Designing lighting for films, events, or even architecture pays handsomely, with average salaries of around $58,000 and potential earnings of over $72,767. Notably, lighting designers create visuals for people to marvel at while working behind the scenes.
Garbage Truck Driver
If there was ever a job “done dirty” by societal taboos, it is this one. While driving a garbage truck may seem undesirable and even humiliating, these professionals earn an average of $58,368 annually, with some unionized roles exceeding $70,000. To top that, their early hours leave their afternoons free, and their job security is unmatched.
Court Clerk
Behind every exciting law proceeding followed by the media is a court clerk who keeps the mountains of paperwork organized. With salaries averaging $45,449 and rising to $61,000 depending on location—this administrative role is “criminally” underrated. It is steady, respectable work that contributes positively to society.
Casino Dealer
Dealing cards or spinning roulette wheels might sound fun, but few choose his career path. The base salaries of around $14,700 are the main cause of this disinterest. However, what many don’t know is that tips can push earnings past $58,000 annually. Strong interpersonal skills make all the difference in this high-energy environment.
Pipeline Inspector
This job might sound like that of a glorified plumber, but there is much more to it than that. Inspectors in the oil and gas industry ensure pipelines operate safely and efficiently, earning salaries in the $69,000–$79,000 range. As a hands-on job, it requires travel and problem-solving skills, perfect for those who enjoy variety and don’t mind getting dirty.
Ship Pilot
Airline pilots take all the attention, leaving this option languishing in the shadows. Guiding massive vessels through ports demands expertise, for which ship pilots are compensated with median salaries of $185,569. This role ensures that cargo and passengers arrive safely by combining maritime knowledge with split-second decision-making.
