Basic industries are the backbone of any economy, and by providing jobs directly and indirectly to all types of workers, they influence the entire job market. There are five basic industries that help drive the U.S. economy – agriculture, mining, construction, manufacturing and utilities – but they don’t offer the same opportunities and number of jobs available to job seekers today as they did 20 years ago. Let’s look at these industries and how many jobs are currently available in each one.
Here are some of the most common jobs available in basic industries:
| Job Title | Number Of Jobs In The U.S. | 2020-2030 Job Growth Rate | Job Openings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metal Fabricator | 77,000+ | -11% | 4,000+ |
| Iron Worker | 58,000+ | 11% | 46,000+ |
| Steel Worker | 49,000+ | 11% | 38,000+ |
| Materials Specialist | 25,000+ | 1% | 38,000+ |
| Miner | 14,000+ | 4% | 500+ |
| Food Scientist | 8,000+ | 7% | 97,000+ |
| Horticulturist | 6,000+ | 7% | 500+ |
| Drilling Engineer | 4,000+ | 3% | 70,000+ |
| Agronomist | 3,000+ | 7% | 500+ |
| Logger | 3,000+ | -14% | 50+ |
The Dream Business
If you’re looking for a job, there is one industry you should consider working in: basic industries. While it’s true that many jobs are being shipped overseas, jobs that involve things like food, clothing and technology production have actually grown over recent years. You can work at any level of these businesses and they offer all kinds of opportunities for advancement. In addition to new positions opening up on a regular basis, there is also plenty of room for expansion. This means that even if you aren’t an executive or running your own business today, you can aspire to do so tomorrow!
Careers in Electronics, Electrical and Power Transmission
A basic industries job is one that takes advantage of a natural resource and turns it into a useable product. The process of creating electronics, electrical and power transmission requires special tools and knowledge, so workers need special training before they can take advantage of these jobs. If you’re already working in or have completed ana ssociate’s degree program, you might be well on your way to landing a position as an electronics technician. Or if you have just graduated high school or have some basic work experience, look into technical school programs that train workers to enter these fields.
Careers in Mechanical, Steel and Metal Products Manufacturing
Even with an improving economy, jobs in basic industries have not seen quite as much improvement. However, there is still growth and careers available for those interested. Mechanical, steel and metal products manufacturing provided over 1 million jobs in 2012 according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). In fact, more than one-third of all manufacturing jobs were found within these basic industries. This means that there were approximately 441,000 jobs waiting for those interested. Take a look at how many mechanical engineering jobs are available: If you’re thinking about getting into mechanical engineering but aren’t sure where to start or what opportunities are out there, then don’t worry – we’ve got some information that can help you figure it out.
Careers in Durable Goods Transportation Equipment Manufacturing
The durable goods transportation equipment manufacturing industry provides both non-technical and technical jobs. This industry includes companies that produce cars, airplanes, railroad cars, and ships. Examples of workers in these occupations include materials managers, brake mechanics, electricians, tool and die makers, welders and woodworkers. Workers generally need a high school diploma or GED equivalent to work in these fields; however, some positions require an associate degree or certificate from a postsecondary vocational program such as an associate degree program for diesel engine repair at most colleges. The typical starting salary is around $34,000 annually while experienced technicians can earn up to $60,000 annually.
Careers in Furniture, Mattress, Rope/Twine & Fabric Mills
According to PayScale’s annual salary survey, some of these industries pay quite well. For example, pharmaceuticals and biotechnology companies pay average base salaries of more than $75,000 annually for entry-level jobs. Some even offer signing bonuses between $10,000 and $15,000. Major research universities can also be good places to start a career; you’ll earn an average base salary of more than $60,000 with many offering signing bonuses up to nearly $12,000. These top earners usually have at least a bachelor’s degree or have worked previously in a field related to their university job. If you’re looking for a big paycheck and great benefits package right out of college—it’s hard to beat working for one of these companies as your first job.
Still Can’t Decide What to Do After Graduation?
The job market for college graduates is growing, but a new survey found that of all adults, Millennials have it toughest when it comes to finding a job. The report by researchers at Harvard University and Georgetown University found that less than one-third of young adults aged 21-24 have a full-time job and many more live with their parents or relatives because they cannot afford to live on their own. So, if you’re still unsure about what to do after graduation and you’re in your 20s or early 30s, don’t sweat it. Most Millennials weren’t sure either; they just went back to school.
Final Tips on Finding a Good Job
If you’re looking for a job, it’s important to look for one that suits your personality and will allow you to thrive as an employee. If you’re not happy with your job, you’ll be less productive, more likely to quit and less willing to help others—all of which will make it more difficult for you to succeed. To figure out if a particular job is right for you, ask yourself: What do I like about my favorite jobs? What types of jobs do I typically do well at? What kinds of skills and tasks am I comfortable with performing every day?
Where Are the Best Places to Work (Salary)?
If you’re wondering where jobs in basic industries are located and what types of salaries you can expect, then you’ve come to the right place. We’ll give you a breakdown of some of your best options for employment as well as insight into what jobs require higher education and which don’t. Keep reading to learn about how many jobs there are available in basic industries, from agricultural workers to construction managers, and how much they pay—along with insights into whether they require higher education or not. Are you ready? Let’s get started!
