Best paying jobs in basic industries

Here are some of the best-paying jobs in basic industries, which are essential to the functioning of society and often require specialized skills and training:

  1. Petroleum Engineers: Median salary $138,980/year. Petroleum engineers design and develop methods for extracting oil and natural gas from the earth.
  2. Chemical Plant Managers: Median salary $123,660/year. Chemical plant managers oversee the production of chemicals, plastics, and other products in manufacturing facilities.
  3. Power Plant Operators: Median salary $87,900/year. Power plant operators control and maintain the equipment that generates electricity in power plants.
  4. Waste Management Supervisors: Median salary $83,490/year. Waste management supervisors oversee the collection, transportation, and disposal of waste and recyclables.
  5. Construction Supervisors: Median salary $76,440/year. Construction supervisors manage construction projects, including scheduling, budgeting, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
  6. Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant Operators: Median salary $74,600/year. Water and wastewater treatment plant operators control and maintain the equipment that treats and purifies water and wastewater.
  7. Agricultural Equipment Operators: Median salary $73,440/year. Agricultural equipment operators operate and maintain equipment used in farming, such as tractors, combines, and irrigation systems.
  8. Mining and Geological Engineers: Median salary $72,820/year. Mining and geological engineers design and develop methods for extracting minerals and metals from the earth.
  9. Food Processing Plant Managers: Median salary $72,440/year. Food processing plant managers oversee the production of food products, including quality control, safety, and regulatory compliance.
  10. Construction Estimators: Median salary $71,440/year. Construction estimators prepare cost estimates for construction projects, including materials, labor, and equipment costs.
  11. Manufacturing Supervisors: Median salary $70,440/year. Manufacturing supervisors oversee the production of goods in manufacturing facilities, including quality control, safety, and regulatory compliance.
  12. Agricultural Scientists: Median salary $69,440/year. Agricultural scientists conduct research and develop new methods for improving crop yields, soil quality, and agricultural productivity.
  13. Environmental Scientists: Median salary $68,440/year. Environmental scientists work to mitigate the environmental impact of industrial activities, including air and water pollution, and develop sustainable solutions.
  14. Geologists: Median salary $67,440/year. Geologists study the earth's composition, structure, and processes, and apply this knowledge to extract natural resources, such as oil, gas, and minerals.
  15. Industrial Engineers: Median salary $66,440/year. Industrial engineers design and optimize systems, processes, and equipment to improve efficiency, productivity, and quality in manufacturing and other industries.

Keep in mind that salaries can vary depending on factors such as location, industry, experience, and company size. Additionally, while these jobs may be considered "basic" in the sense that they are essential to society, they often require specialized skills and training, and can be highly rewarding careers.