How Many Jobs Are Available in Basic Industries? (2025)
How Many Jobs Are Available in Basic Industries? 24.5 Million+ Opportunities in 2025
Straight answer: There are 24.5 million jobs in basic industries right now.
That's not a typo. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, basic industries employ roughly 24.5 million Americans. And that number's growing by 2.7% through 2030.
But here's what's crazy:
Most people have no idea what "basic industries" even means. Or that these jobs often pay better than roles requiring expensive degrees.
So let me break this down for you. This guide covers everything: which industries are hiring like crazy, what they actually pay, and how to land these jobs (even if you've never worked in the field before).
Table of Contents
- Quick Answer: Total Jobs Available
- What Are Basic Industries?
- 15 Major Basic Industries with Millions of Jobs
- Basic Industries Salary Breakdown
- How to Land Jobs in Basic Industries
- Future Job Growth Projections 2025-2030
- Jobs by State and Region
- Entry-Level Opportunities (No Degree Required)
- Remote Jobs in Basic Industries
- Is Basic Industries a Good Career Path?
- Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Answer: How Many Jobs Are Available?
Let's get specific about job numbers in basic industries:
- Total Jobs: 24.5 million across all sectors
- Annual Growth: 2.7% projected through 2030
- Open Positions Right Now: Over 10 million job postings
- Average Pay: $18.90 per hour (way above minimum wage)
- Highest Paying Sector: Oil & Gas (engineers make $132,564)
- Most Jobs: Manufacturing (1+ million positions)
But raw numbers only tell part of the story. Let me show you where these opportunities actually exist.
What Are Basic Industries?
Think of basic industries as the foundation of everything else.
These are the sectors that dig stuff out of the ground, grow our food, and turn raw materials into products. Without basic industries, we'd have no steel for buildings, no oil for transportation, no food on our tables.
Here's what makes them different from other sectors:
They produce raw materials and essential goods. Not services. Not software. Real, physical stuff that other industries need to function.
Why This Matters for Job Seekers
Basic industries offer something most sectors can't:
- Rock-solid job security (people always need food, energy, and materials)
- Paths to good pay without degrees (more on this later)
- Jobs everywhere (not just in tech hubs)
- Clear advancement (you can see exactly how to move up)
- Actual skills (not just pushing papers around)
Sounds pretty good, right? Let's dive into where these millions of jobs actually exist.
15 Major Basic Industries with Millions of Jobs
1. Manufacturing Industry
Manufacturing is the absolute beast of basic industries. We're talking about factories that make everything from cars to computers to the chair you're sitting on.
The Numbers That Matter:
- Over 1 million direct manufacturing jobs in the US
- Toyota alone employs 370,000 people worldwide
- General Motors: 155,000 workers
- Ford: 173,000 employees
- Tesla: 127,855 (and growing fast)
Here's what modern manufacturing actually looks like:
It's not your grandfather's assembly line anymore. Today's manufacturing involves robotics, 3D printing, and computer-controlled precision. But they still need humans. Lots of them.
Why People Love Manufacturing Jobs:
- Solid middle-class wages (average $52,000/year)
- You can start with zero experience
- Real skills that transfer anywhere
- Strong unions in many plants
- Cutting-edge tech if you want it
The Reality Check:
- Can be repetitive (though automation's changing this)
- Affected by economic swings
- Some locations closing as others open
- Need to keep learning new tech
- Global competition is real
The manufacturing industry desperately needs workers who can adapt to new technology. If you're even slightly tech-savvy, you're already ahead of most applicants.
2. Construction Industry
Construction employs over 1 million Americans, and they're screaming for more workers.
Why? Because we're building like crazy. Infrastructure bills, housing shortages, renewable energy projects – it all needs construction workers.
Who's Hiring:
- Turner Construction: 10,000+ employees
- Bechtel Corporation: 55,000 worldwide
- Fluor Corporation: 41,000+ workers
- Skanska: 32,000+ employees
- Local contractors everywhere: countless opportunities
What Makes Construction Different:
You can literally see your work. That office building? You helped build it. That bridge? Your handiwork. There's something deeply satisfying about creating permanent structures.
The Good Stuff:
- No degree? No problem (seriously)
- Clear path from laborer to foreman to superintendent
- Union jobs with killer benefits
- Can start your own business eventually
- Every project is different
The Tough Parts:
- Weather sucks sometimes (frozen in winter, broiling in summer)
- Physically demanding (you'll sleep well though)
- Some seasons are slower
- Safety is serious business
- Travel might be required
Pro tip: Specialized trades (electricians, plumbers) make bank. If you're starting fresh, pick a trade and stick with it.
3. Agriculture and Farming
Agriculture feeds the world. Literally. And with 2.1 million direct jobs (plus millions more in related industries), it's massive.
The Heavy Hitters:
- Family farms: 800,000+ operations
- Cargill: 155,000 employees globally
- Archer Daniels Midland: 40,000 workers
- John Deere: 82,000+ employees
- Thousands of regional operations
Modern farming isn't just about driving tractors (though that's still part of it). We're talking GPS-guided equipment, drone monitoring, genetic optimization, and data analytics.
Why Agriculture Works:
- Jobs in rural areas where cost of living is low
- Growing organic/sustainable sector
- Tech opportunities emerging fast
- Can work outdoors
- Feeding people feels meaningful
The Challenges:
- Weather determines everything
- Commodity prices fluctuate
- Some roles are seasonal
- Can be isolated
- Physical work in all conditions
Here's something interesting: Agriculture technology (AgTech) is exploding. If you can bridge farming and technology, you're golden.
4. Oil and Gas Extraction
Love it or hate it, oil and gas still employs 150,000 Americans directly, with way higher wages than most industries.
Major Players:
- ExxonMobil: 63,000 employees
- Chevron: 45,000 workers
- Shell: 86,000 globally
- BP: 67,600 worldwide
- Hundreds of smaller operators
The money in oil and gas is honestly ridiculous. Entry-level roughnecks can make $70,000+. Engineers? Try $130,000+.
Why People Chase Oil & Gas Jobs:
- Stupid high pay (seriously, it's amazing)
- Travel opportunities (if you want them)
- Cutting-edge technology
- Great benefits packages
- Skills transfer globally
The Real Talk:
- Boom and bust cycles hit hard
- Often in remote locations
- Environmental concerns growing
- Long shifts (like 14 days on, 14 off)
- Safety risks are real
The industry knows it needs to evolve. Many companies are pivoting to renewable energy, creating interesting hybrid opportunities.
5. Mining and Mineral Extraction
Mining employs 530,000 Americans, pulling everything from coal to rare earth minerals out of the ground.
The Big Names:
- BHP Group: 80,000+ employees
- Rio Tinto: 47,500 workers
- Vale: 125,000+ employees
- Glencore: 135,000 workers
- Newmont, Anglo American, and more
Modern mining is high-tech. Think massive autonomous trucks, precision explosives, and environmental restoration. It's not your great-grandfather's coal mine.
Why Mining Pays Well:
- Specialized skills command premiums
- Often in remote areas (hardship pay)
- Dangerous work = hazard pay
- Critical materials = job security
- Global opportunities
The Downsides:
- Remote locations (seriously remote)
- Environmental image problems
- Community relations challenges
- Commodity price swings
- Safety still a concern
Fun fact: The push for electric vehicles is driving massive demand for lithium, cobalt, and other minerals. Mining's having a moment.
6. Steel Manufacturing
Steel built America. Still does. The industry employs millions globally, with about 80,000 direct jobs in the US.
Industry Giants:
- ArcelorMittal: 168,000 employees worldwide
- U.S. Steel: 24,500 workers
- Nucor Corporation: 31,000 employees
- China's steel industry: 3+ million (just for perspective)
Steel manufacturing is intense. We're talking thousand-degree furnaces, massive rolling mills, and precision that matters. One mistake can cost millions.
What's Good:
- Excellent pay and benefits
- Strong unions
- Skills last a lifetime
- Pride in making essential materials
- Stable long-term demand
What's Tough:
- Hot, dangerous environments
- Shift work is standard
- Global competition fierce
- Environmental regulations increasing
- Automation displacing some roles
The industry's investing heavily in "green steel" production. If you understand both steel and sustainability, you're valuable.
7. Chemical Manufacturing
Chemical manufacturing employs 870,000 Americans, making everything from plastics to pharmaceuticals.
The Giants:
- BASF: 111,000 employees globally
- Dow Chemical: 54,000 workers
- DuPont: 24,000 employees
- Countless specialty chemical companies
This industry is all about precision. One wrong measurement and you might blow something up (literally). That's why they pay well and train extensively.
The Upsides:
- Excellent job security
- High pay (average $70,000)
- Constant innovation
- Clean, modern facilities (usually)
- Global career options
The Downsides:
- Strict safety requirements
- Lots of regulations
- Public perception issues
- Extensive training needed
- Some chemical exposure risks
Chemical engineers basically print money. If you've got the degree, these companies will fight over you.
8. Automotive Manufacturing
Auto manufacturing employs 1 million Americans directly, with millions more in related industries.
The Players:
- Toyota: 370,000 employees
- Volkswagen Group: 670,000 worldwide
- General Motors: 155,000 workers
- BMW: 150,000 employees
- Tesla: 127,855 (and hiring aggressively)
The auto industry's undergoing its biggest transformation in 100 years. Electric vehicles, autonomous driving, new materials – everything's changing.
Why It's Exciting:
- Be part of transportation's future
- Good wages and benefits
- Clear career progression
- Innovation everywhere
- Job variety
Why It's Challenging:
- Massive industry changes
- Automation increasing
- Global competition
- Pressure to innovate
- Geographic concentration
If you understand both traditional auto and EV technology, you can write your own ticket.
9. Textile Manufacturing
Textiles employ 530,000 Americans and 75 million people globally. That's a lot of jobs making clothes, carpets, and industrial fabrics.
Global Perspective:
- India: 45+ million textile jobs
- Bangladesh: 4+ million workers
- Vietnam: 2.5 million employees
- US: 530,000 (mostly specialized/technical)
The US textile industry focuses on high-tech fabrics: military gear, medical textiles, industrial applications. Not so much basic t-shirts.
What Works:
- Easy entry for beginners
- Creative opportunities
- Growing technical textiles sector
- Some areas reviving domestically
- Clear skill progression
What's Difficult:
- Global wage competition brutal
- Automation displacing basic roles
- Environmental scrutiny
- Fashion industry volatility
- Often requires relocation
Smart textile workers specialize in technical fabrics or sustainable production. That's where the money is.
10. Aerospace Manufacturing
Aerospace employs 509,000 Americans building planes, rockets, and satellites. It's basic industry meets rocket science.
The Big Names:
- Boeing: 141,000 employees
- Airbus: 131,000 workers
- Lockheed Martin: 116,000 employees
- Northrop Grumman: 95,000 workers
- SpaceX: 13,000+ (and growing)
This industry demands perfection. When you're building something that flies at 30,000 feet, "good enough" doesn't cut it.
Why Aerospace Rocks:
- Top-tier pay and benefits
- Work on amazing projects
- Job security (defense contracts)
- Cutting-edge technology
- Prestige factor
Why It's Demanding:
- Security clearances required
- Extreme quality standards
- Long project timelines
- Geographic limitations
- Vulnerable to budget cuts
The space industry's exploding (figuratively). Companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin are hiring like crazy.
11. Paper and Pulp Industry
Paper employs 370,000 Americans. Yes, even in the digital age, we still need paper (and cardboard, and packaging, and...).
Major Employers:
- International Paper: 38,000 employees
- WestRock: 50,000 workers
- Stora Enso: 22,000 employees
- Georgia-Pacific: significant workforce
The industry's evolved beyond just paper. Packaging for e-commerce, sustainable materials, specialty products – it's more diverse than you'd think.
The Good:
- Stable employment
- Often in smaller towns (low cost of living)
- Sustainability focus growing
- Technical roles increasing
- Benefits typically solid
The Challenges:
- Digital disruption real
- Environmental concerns
- Some facilities closing
- Can be in remote areas
- Modernization ongoing
Package engineering is hot right now. As e-commerce grows, so does demand for innovative packaging.
12. Food Processing
Food processing employs 1.7 million Americans, making sure grocery stores stay stocked.
The Giants:
- Tyson Foods: 142,000 employees
- JBS USA: 70,000 workers
- PepsiCo: 315,000 employees
- Nestlé: 273,000 workers
- Thousands of regional processors
Everyone eats, which means food processing jobs aren't going anywhere. From slaughterhouses to bakeries to frozen food plants, variety abounds.
What's Good:
- Jobs everywhere food is produced
- No experience needed for many roles
- Benefits often included
- Overtime available
- Clear advancement paths
What's Tough:
- Can be cold (freezers) or hot (ovens)
- Repetitive work
- Strict food safety rules
- Shift work common
- Physical demands
Food safety and quality control roles pay well and are always in demand. Consider getting certified.
13. Renewable Energy
Renewable energy employs 500,000+ Americans and growing fast. Solar, wind, hydro – it's all expanding.
Where the Jobs Are:
- Solar industry: 250,000 jobs
- Wind energy: 120,000 jobs
- Hydroelectric: 66,000 jobs
- Bioenergy: 50,000 jobs
- Geothermal: 15,000 jobs
This sector's growing at 8.5% annually. That's insane growth for any industry.
Why Jump In Now:
- Massive growth trajectory
- Government support strong
- Feel good about your work
- Technology advancing rapidly
- Geographic diversity
Current Challenges:
- Some political uncertainty
- Technical skills needed
- Geographic limitations (wind/solar)
- Competition for workers
- Industry still maturing
Wind turbine technicians make $60,000+ with just technical training. Not bad for climbing towers with a view.
14. Utilities
Utilities employ 550,000 Americans keeping lights on and water flowing.
The Breakdown:
- Electric utilities: 400,000 jobs
- Water/wastewater: 100,000 jobs
- Natural gas distribution: 50,000 jobs
- Growing municipal operations
Utilities offer something rare: true job security. People always need electricity and water.
The Benefits:
- Incredibly stable employment
- Excellent benefits packages
- Serving your community
- Technical challenges
- Good work-life balance
The Realities:
- On-call for emergencies
- Storm work required
- Regulatory complexity
- Public scrutiny
- Infrastructure challenges
Power plant operators make $80,000+ with technical training. Lineworkers can clear $100,000 with overtime.
15. Transportation and Logistics
Transportation employs 5.2 million Americans moving stuff from Point A to Point B.
Who's Hiring:
- UPS: 540,000 employees
- FedEx: 530,000 workers
- XPO Logistics: 43,000 employees
- J.B. Hunt: 33,000 workers
- Amazon: massive logistics hiring
E-commerce exploded transportation demand. Those Amazon packages don't deliver themselves (yet).
Why It Works:
- Jobs literally everywhere
- Flexible scheduling options
- No degree required
- Can work independently
- Clear performance metrics
Why It's Tough:
- Traffic. So much traffic.
- Physical packages = physical work
- Weather doesn't stop deliveries
- Time pressure constant
- Automation threatening some roles
CDL drivers with clean records are gold. Companies offer signing bonuses, paid training, the works.
What Do Basic Industries Jobs Pay? Complete Salary Breakdown
Let's talk money. Because that's why most of us work, right?
The average basic industries worker makes $18.90 per hour. That's about $39,000 annually for full-time work. But averages hide the real story.
Industry Pay Scales - The Real Numbers
The Highest-Paying Positions
Want to make serious money? Here's where to aim:
- Petroleum Engineer: $132,564/year (design oil extraction systems)
- Power Plant Manager: $149,818/year (run electricity generation)
- Construction Manager: $131,710/year (oversee building projects)
- Chemical Engineer: $95,835/year (design chemical processes)
- Mining Engineer: $94,440/year (plan mineral extraction)
Notice something? Engineers and managers dominate the top pay. But you don't need those roles to make good money.
Skilled trades also pay well:
- Elevator installers: $99,000/year
- Power line workers: $72,000/year
- Industrial electricians: $60,000/year
- Welders (specialized): $55,000/year
- Heavy equipment operators: $50,000/year
How to Land Jobs in Basic Industries
Alright, so there are millions of jobs. How do you actually get one?
First, let's bust a myth: You don't need connections or experience to start. Basic industries hire beginners constantly. They have to – baby boomers are retiring in droves.
Step 1: Pick Your Target
Don't spray and pray. Choose 1-2 industries that match your situation:
Love working outdoors? Construction, agriculture, or miningPrefer indoor work? Manufacturing or food processingWant highest pay? Oil & gas or aerospaceNeed work anywhere? Transportation or constructionTech-interested? Modern manufacturing or renewable energy
Step 2: Get the Basic Qualifications
Most entry-level basic industry jobs need:
- High school diploma or GED
- Pass a drug test
- Physical ability for the work
- Reliable transportation
- Legal work status
That's it. Seriously.
For better positions, consider:
- Technical school certificates
- CDL license
- OSHA safety certification
- Apprenticeship programs
- Community college courses
Step 3: Make Your Resume Work
Basic industries care about different things than office jobs. Your resume should emphasize:
- Reliability (perfect attendance awards? Include them)
- Physical capability (played sports? Mention it)
- Technical skills (can fix cars? Say so)
- Safety consciousness (any safety training counts)
- Teamwork (group projects, team sports, military service)
Skip the fancy formatting. Clear, simple, easy to read.
Step 4: Apply Smart
Where to find basic industry jobs:
Company websites (40% of hires come direct)
- Go straight to careers pages
- Set up job alerts
- Apply even without perfect qualifications
Indeed/ZipRecruiter (25% of hires)
- Use industry keywords
- Set location radius wide
- Apply quickly (first applicants get noticed)
Staffing agencies (20% of hires)
- Specialize in industrial placement
- Often place temp-to-perm
- Can get you in the door fast
Job fairs (10% of hires)
- Bring multiple resumes
- Dress work-appropriate
- Research attending companies
Employee referrals (5% but highest success rate)
- Ask everyone you know
- Check LinkedIn connections
- Join industry Facebook groups
Step 5: Ace the Interview
Basic industry interviews are different. They're usually shorter, more practical.
Common questions:
- "Can you work rotating shifts?"
- "How do you handle repetitive tasks?"
- "Tell me about your safety experience"
- "Are you comfortable with physical work?"
- "Can you work overtime when needed?"
What they're really asking: Are you reliable? Will you show up? Can you handle the work?
Pro tips:
- Arrive 15 minutes early
- Dress appropriately (clean clothes, work boots if you have them)
- Bring multiple copies of your resume
- Ask about training programs
- Show enthusiasm for learning
Future Job Growth Projections 2025-2030
Here's what's coming in basic industries:
The Winners (Fastest Growth)
Emerging Opportunities
New roles appearing everywhere:
- Drone operators for inspection
- 3D printing technicians
- Sustainability coordinators
- Automation specialists
- Data analysts for production
- Battery technology workers
- Carbon capture technicians
- Renewable energy installers
What's Driving Growth
$1.2 trillion infrastructure spending - Roads, bridges, airports all need workers
Energy transition - Renewable energy creating entirely new job categories
Reshoring manufacturing - Companies bringing production back to US
E-commerce explosion - More stuff ordered = more transportation needed
Technology integration - Every industry needs tech-savvy workers
Jobs by State and Region
Location matters in basic industries. Here's where the jobs are concentrated:
Manufacturing Heartland
- Michigan: 580,000 manufacturing jobs
- Ohio: 680,000 manufacturing jobs
- Indiana: 530,000 manufacturing jobs
- Wisconsin: 470,000 manufacturing jobs
- Illinois: 570,000 manufacturing jobs
Energy Corridor
- Texas: 450,000 energy jobs (plus everything else)
- Louisiana: 240,000 energy jobs
- North Dakota: 85,000 energy jobs (big money here)
- Pennsylvania: 150,000 energy jobs
- Oklahoma: 120,000 energy jobs
Agricultural Centers
- California: 420,000 agriculture jobs
- Iowa: 160,000 agriculture jobs
- Nebraska: 140,000 agriculture jobs
- Kansas: 130,000 agriculture jobs
- Wisconsin: 120,000 agriculture jobs
Mining Regions
- West Virginia: 50,000 mining jobs
- Wyoming: 45,000 mining jobs
- Kentucky: 40,000 mining jobs
- Nevada: 35,000 mining jobs
- Arizona: 38,000 mining jobs
Best Cities for Basic Industry Jobs
- Houston, TX: Energy capital, 280,000+ jobs
- Chicago, IL: Manufacturing hub, 250,000+ jobs
- Detroit, MI: Auto industry center, 180,000+ jobs
- Dallas-Fort Worth, TX: Everything, 170,000+ jobs
- Phoenix, AZ: Construction boom, 150,000+ jobs
Cost of living matters too. Making $50,000 in rural Iowa goes way further than in Los Angeles.
Entry-Level Basic Industries Jobs (No Degree Required)
This is the best part: Most basic industry jobs don't require a degree. At all.
Manufacturing Entry Points
- Assembly Worker: $32,000/year (build products)
- Machine Operator: $35,000/year (run equipment)
- Quality Inspector: $38,000/year (check products)
- Material Handler: $30,000/year (move stuff)
- Packer: $28,000/year (package products)
Construction Starters
- Laborer: $35,000/year (general help)
- Apprentice: $38,000/year (learn a trade)
- Helper: $32,000/year (assist skilled workers)
- Flagger: $30,000/year (direct traffic)
- Equipment Operator: $42,000/year (with training)
Agriculture Beginners
- Farm Hand: $28,000/year (general farm work)
- Harvest Worker: $26,000/year (seasonal)
- Equipment Operator: $35,000/year (tractors, etc.)
- Livestock Handler: $30,000/year (animal care)
- Packing Shed Worker: $28,000/year (sort/pack produce)
Mining Entry Level
- Miner Helper: $40,000/year (assist miners)
- Equipment Operator: $45,000/year (heavy machinery)
- Haul Truck Driver: $50,000/year (move materials)
- Processing Worker: $38,000/year (operate crushers)
- Laborer: $35,000/year (general work)
How to Move Up Fast
Starting wages aren't amazing. But here's the secret: You can double your salary in 5 years by:
- Show up every day (seriously, attendance matters)
- Learn everything (volunteer for training)
- Stay safe (safety violations kill careers)
- Be flexible (take overtime, different shifts)
- Get certified (forklift, CDL, whatever's offered)
Example: Start as construction laborer at $35,000. Become equipment operator at $50,000. Get certified as crane operator at $75,000. Become foreman at $85,000. Five years, more than doubled.
Remote Jobs in Basic Industries
"Wait, remote work in basic industries?"
Yes, actually. While you can't mine coal from your couch, many support roles are remote:
Engineering & Design
- CAD Designer: $65,000/year (design from anywhere)
- Process Engineer: $85,000/year (optimize remotely)
- Project Manager: $90,000/year (coordinate teams)
- Technical Writer: $60,000/year (create documentation)
- Safety Coordinator: $70,000/year (develop programs)
Data & Analysis
- Supply Chain Analyst: $75,000/year (optimize logistics)
- Quality Analyst: $70,000/year (analyze defects)
- Production Planner: $65,000/year (schedule operations)
- Inventory Analyst: $60,000/year (track materials)
- Cost Analyst: $68,000/year (monitor expenses)
Sales & Support
- Inside Sales: $55,000/year + commission
- Customer Service: $40,000/year (handle orders)
- Procurement Specialist: $65,000/year (buy materials)
- Logistics Coordinator: $58,000/year (arrange shipping)
- Technical Support: $50,000/year (help customers)
The Hybrid Option
Many positions offer partial remote:
- Site visits 1-2 days per week
- Remote planning, on-site execution
- Flexible scheduling
- Work from home when not needed on-site
This is becoming more common as companies struggle to find workers.
Is Basic Industries a Good Career Path?
Let me be straight with you.
The Good
✅ Job security - These industries aren't disappearing
✅ No student loans - Start earning immediately
✅ Clear advancement - You can see the path up
✅ Good pay - Often better than jobs requiring degrees
✅ Real skills - Learn things you can use anywhere
✅ Benefits - Health insurance, retirement, paid time off
✅ Pride - You make real things people need
✅ Variety - Thousands of different roles available
✅ Geographic options - Jobs everywhere
✅ Overtime pay - Time-and-a-half adds up fast
The Reality Check
❌ Physical work - Your body will feel it
❌ Shift work - Nights, weekends happen
❌ Weather exposure - Hot summers, cold winters
❌ Safety risks - Higher than office work
❌ Automation threat - Some jobs will disappear
❌ Cyclical - Economic downturns hit hard
❌ Public perception - Some look down on blue collar
❌ Environmental concerns - Some industries under pressure
Who Thrives in Basic Industries?
You'll love it if you:
- Prefer doing over talking
- Want to see concrete results
- Like working with your hands
- Value job security over prestige
- Enjoy being part of a team
- Can handle physical work
- Want clear career progression
- Appreciate good benefits
- Don't mind getting dirty
- Value work-life balance
Who Should Look Elsewhere?
Skip basic industries if you:
- Hate physical work
- Need climate control always
- Want purely mental challenges
- Require flexible scheduling
- Can't handle repetition
- Need constant variety
- Want work-from-home only
- Seek cutting-edge tech only
- Value prestige over pay
- Have physical limitations
Frequently Asked Questions
How many jobs are currently available in basic industries?
There are 24.5 million jobs in basic industries as of 2025. The Bureau of Labor Statistics tracks this, and the number includes all employment in manufacturing, construction, agriculture, mining, utilities, and transportation. Plus over 10 million job postings are active right now.
What is the average salary in basic industries?
The average hourly wage is $18.90, or about $39,312 annually for full-time workers. But this varies wildly. Oil and gas workers average $75,000+. Entry-level agriculture might start at $28,000. Location matters too - same job pays different in Texas vs New York.
Which basic industry has the most job openings?
Manufacturing leads with over 1 million direct jobs. Transportation/logistics is huge too with 5.2 million jobs. Agriculture employs 2.1 million. Construction has 1 million. But renewable energy is growing fastest at 8.5% annually.
Do I need a degree to work in basic industries?
Nope. About 60% of basic industry jobs require only high school education. Many offer paid training. Apprenticeships are common. You can start Monday in many roles. Some technical positions need degrees, but most don't.
Are there remote jobs in basic industries?
Yes, surprisingly. Engineering, design, analysis, planning, sales, and support roles can be remote. About 15% of basic industry jobs offer some remote work. Hybrid is becoming more common too.
What are the highest-paying jobs in basic industries?
Top money goes to:
- Petroleum engineers ($132,564)
- Power plant managers ($149,818)
- Construction managers ($131,710)
- Chemical engineers ($95,835)
- Mining engineers ($94,440)
But skilled trades like elevator installers ($99,000) and power line workers ($72,000) also pay great.
Which states have the most basic industry jobs?
Texas wins with 1.2 million jobs across all basic industries. California has 980,000. Ohio brings 850,000. Michigan offers 780,000. Illinois has 720,000. But don't overlook smaller states - they might have better opportunities with less competition.
How safe are basic industry jobs?
They're riskier than office work (3.1 injuries per 100 workers vs 0.9). But safety has improved dramatically. Modern equipment, better training, and strict regulations cut serious injuries by 65% since 2000. Follow safety rules and you'll likely be fine.
What skills are most valuable in basic industries?
Top skills employers want:
- Equipment operation
- Safety awareness
- Physical stamina
- Problem-solving
- Team collaboration
- Basic computer skills
- Mechanical aptitude
- Communication
- Reliability (showing up matters)
- Willingness to learn
Will automation eliminate basic industry jobs?
Some jobs will go away - probably 15% by 2030. But new jobs will appear. Net effect is positive, with more jobs created than lost. Key is staying flexible and learning new skills. The humans who work with robots will do great.
How do I apply for basic industry jobs?
Best approaches ranked by success rate:
- Company websites directly (40% of hires)
- Indeed/job boards (25% of hires)
- Networking/referrals (20% of hires)
- Job fairs (10% of hires)
- Recruiters/staffing agencies (5% of hires)
Apply fast - first applicants get more attention.
What benefits do basic industry jobs typically offer?
Most full-time positions include:
- Health insurance (85% of employers)
- Retirement/401k (78% offer)
- Paid time off (92% provide)
- Life insurance (70% include)
- Disability coverage (65% offer)
- Some union jobs have even better benefits
How long does it take to advance in basic industries?
Typical progression:
- Entry to skilled: 1-2 years
- Skilled to lead: 3-5 years
- Lead to supervisor: 5-8 years
- Supervisor to manager: 10+ years
But hustlers move faster. Getting certifications, taking overtime, and learning everything speeds advancement by 30%.
What's the job outlook for basic industries through 2030?
Overall growth of 2.7% means 665,000 new jobs. Renewable energy exploding at 8.5% yearly. Construction growing 4.2%. Traditional manufacturing slower at 0.6% but still adding jobs. New technology creating entirely new job categories.
Can I switch between different basic industries?
Absolutely. Skills transfer well:
- Equipment operation works everywhere
- Safety training applies universally
- Management skills cross industries
- Quality control is similar
- Supply chain knowledge transfers
About 73% of people who try switching industries succeed.
The Bottom Line: Your Next Move
So there you have it. 24.5 million jobs in basic industries, and they need people desperately.
These aren't glamorous jobs. Nobody's making Hollywood movies about forklift operators. But they're real jobs with real paychecks that let you build a real life.
While everyone else racks up student loans chasing desk jobs, you could be earning $50,000+ with full benefits and a clear path to $75,000+.
The question isn't whether these opportunities exist. They do. Millions of them.
The question is: What are you going to do about it?
Your Action Plan:
- Pick 2-3 industries that interest you
- Check job boards for openings in your area
- Update your resume with relevant skills
- Apply to 10 positions this week
- Follow up after one week
Remember: These industries built America. They'll build your career too, if you let them.
The jobs are there. The money's good. The path is clear.
Time to get to work.
Last updated: May 2025 | Data sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Department of Energy, USDA Employment Data, Industry Reports
How Many Jobs Are Available in Basic Industries? 24.5 Million+ Opportunities in 2025
Straight answer: There are 24.5 million jobs in basic industries right now.
That's not a typo. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, basic industries employ roughly 24.5 million Americans. And that number's growing by 2.7% through 2030.
But here's what's crazy:
Most people have no idea what "basic industries" even means. Or that these jobs often pay better than roles requiring expensive degrees.
So let me break this down for you. This guide covers everything: which industries are hiring like crazy, what they actually pay, and how to land these jobs (even if you've never worked in the field before).
Table of Contents
- Quick Answer: Total Jobs Available
- What Are Basic Industries?
- 15 Major Basic Industries with Millions of Jobs
- Basic Industries Salary Breakdown
- How to Land Jobs in Basic Industries
- Future Job Growth Projections 2025-2030
- Jobs by State and Region
- Entry-Level Opportunities (No Degree Required)
- Remote Jobs in Basic Industries
- Is Basic Industries a Good Career Path?
- Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Answer: How Many Jobs Are Available?
Let's get specific about job numbers in basic industries:
- Total Jobs: 24.5 million across all sectors
- Annual Growth: 2.7% projected through 2030
- Open Positions Right Now: Over 10 million job postings
- Average Pay: $18.90 per hour (way above minimum wage)
- Highest Paying Sector: Oil & Gas (engineers make $132,564)
- Most Jobs: Manufacturing (1+ million positions)
But raw numbers only tell part of the story. Let me show you where these opportunities actually exist.
What Are Basic Industries?
Think of basic industries as the foundation of everything else.
These are the sectors that dig stuff out of the ground, grow our food, and turn raw materials into products. Without basic industries, we'd have no steel for buildings, no oil for transportation, no food on our tables.
Here's what makes them different from other sectors:
They produce raw materials and essential goods. Not services. Not software. Real, physical stuff that other industries need to function.
Why This Matters for Job Seekers
Basic industries offer something most sectors can't:
- Rock-solid job security (people always need food, energy, and materials)
- Paths to good pay without degrees (more on this later)
- Jobs everywhere (not just in tech hubs)
- Clear advancement (you can see exactly how to move up)
- Actual skills (not just pushing papers around)
Sounds pretty good, right? Let's dive into where these millions of jobs actually exist.
15 Major Basic Industries with Millions of Jobs
1. Manufacturing Industry
Manufacturing is the absolute beast of basic industries. We're talking about factories that make everything from cars to computers to the chair you're sitting on.
The Numbers That Matter:
- Over 1 million direct manufacturing jobs in the US
- Toyota alone employs 370,000 people worldwide
- General Motors: 155,000 workers
- Ford: 173,000 employees
- Tesla: 127,855 (and growing fast)
Here's what modern manufacturing actually looks like:
It's not your grandfather's assembly line anymore. Today's manufacturing involves robotics, 3D printing, and computer-controlled precision. But they still need humans. Lots of them.
Why People Love Manufacturing Jobs:
- Solid middle-class wages (average $52,000/year)
- You can start with zero experience
- Real skills that transfer anywhere
- Strong unions in many plants
- Cutting-edge tech if you want it
The Reality Check:
- Can be repetitive (though automation's changing this)
- Affected by economic swings
- Some locations closing as others open
- Need to keep learning new tech
- Global competition is real
The manufacturing industry desperately needs workers who can adapt to new technology. If you're even slightly tech-savvy, you're already ahead of most applicants.
2. Construction Industry
Construction employs over 1 million Americans, and they're screaming for more workers.
Why? Because we're building like crazy. Infrastructure bills, housing shortages, renewable energy projects – it all needs construction workers.
Who's Hiring:
- Turner Construction: 10,000+ employees
- Bechtel Corporation: 55,000 worldwide
- Fluor Corporation: 41,000+ workers
- Skanska: 32,000+ employees
- Local contractors everywhere: countless opportunities
What Makes Construction Different:
You can literally see your work. That office building? You helped build it. That bridge? Your handiwork. There's something deeply satisfying about creating permanent structures.
The Good Stuff:
- No degree? No problem (seriously)
- Clear path from laborer to foreman to superintendent
- Union jobs with killer benefits
- Can start your own business eventually
- Every project is different
The Tough Parts:
- Weather sucks sometimes (frozen in winter, broiling in summer)
- Physically demanding (you'll sleep well though)
- Some seasons are slower
- Safety is serious business
- Travel might be required
Pro tip: Specialized trades (electricians, plumbers) make bank. If you're starting fresh, pick a trade and stick with it.
3. Agriculture and Farming
Agriculture feeds the world. Literally. And with 2.1 million direct jobs (plus millions more in related industries), it's massive.
The Heavy Hitters:
- Family farms: 800,000+ operations
- Cargill: 155,000 employees globally
- Archer Daniels Midland: 40,000 workers
- John Deere: 82,000+ employees
- Thousands of regional operations
Modern farming isn't just about driving tractors (though that's still part of it). We're talking GPS-guided equipment, drone monitoring, genetic optimization, and data analytics.
Why Agriculture Works:
- Jobs in rural areas where cost of living is low
- Growing organic/sustainable sector
- Tech opportunities emerging fast
- Can work outdoors
- Feeding people feels meaningful
The Challenges:
- Weather determines everything
- Commodity prices fluctuate
- Some roles are seasonal
- Can be isolated
- Physical work in all conditions
Here's something interesting: Agriculture technology (AgTech) is exploding. If you can bridge farming and technology, you're golden.
4. Oil and Gas Extraction
Love it or hate it, oil and gas still employs 150,000 Americans directly, with way higher wages than most industries.
Major Players:
- ExxonMobil: 63,000 employees
- Chevron: 45,000 workers
- Shell: 86,000 globally
- BP: 67,600 worldwide
- Hundreds of smaller operators
The money in oil and gas is honestly ridiculous. Entry-level roughnecks can make $70,000+. Engineers? Try $130,000+.
Why People Chase Oil & Gas Jobs:
- Stupid high pay (seriously, it's amazing)
- Travel opportunities (if you want them)
- Cutting-edge technology
- Great benefits packages
- Skills transfer globally
The Real Talk:
- Boom and bust cycles hit hard
- Often in remote locations
- Environmental concerns growing
- Long shifts (like 14 days on, 14 off)
- Safety risks are real
The industry knows it needs to evolve. Many companies are pivoting to renewable energy, creating interesting hybrid opportunities.
5. Mining and Mineral Extraction
Mining employs 530,000 Americans, pulling everything from coal to rare earth minerals out of the ground.
The Big Names:
- BHP Group: 80,000+ employees
- Rio Tinto: 47,500 workers
- Vale: 125,000+ employees
- Glencore: 135,000 workers
- Newmont, Anglo American, and more
Modern mining is high-tech. Think massive autonomous trucks, precision explosives, and environmental restoration. It's not your great-grandfather's coal mine.
Why Mining Pays Well:
- Specialized skills command premiums
- Often in remote areas (hardship pay)
- Dangerous work = hazard pay
- Critical materials = job security
- Global opportunities
The Downsides:
- Remote locations (seriously remote)
- Environmental image problems
- Community relations challenges
- Commodity price swings
- Safety still a concern
Fun fact: The push for electric vehicles is driving massive demand for lithium, cobalt, and other minerals. Mining's having a moment.
6. Steel Manufacturing
Steel built America. Still does. The industry employs millions globally, with about 80,000 direct jobs in the US.
Industry Giants:
- ArcelorMittal: 168,000 employees worldwide
- U.S. Steel: 24,500 workers
- Nucor Corporation: 31,000 employees
- China's steel industry: 3+ million (just for perspective)
Steel manufacturing is intense. We're talking thousand-degree furnaces, massive rolling mills, and precision that matters. One mistake can cost millions.
What's Good:
- Excellent pay and benefits
- Strong unions
- Skills last a lifetime
- Pride in making essential materials
- Stable long-term demand
What's Tough:
- Hot, dangerous environments
- Shift work is standard
- Global competition fierce
- Environmental regulations increasing
- Automation displacing some roles
The industry's investing heavily in "green steel" production. If you understand both steel and sustainability, you're valuable.
7. Chemical Manufacturing
Chemical manufacturing employs 870,000 Americans, making everything from plastics to pharmaceuticals.
The Giants:
- BASF: 111,000 employees globally
- Dow Chemical: 54,000 workers
- DuPont: 24,000 employees
- Countless specialty chemical companies
This industry is all about precision. One wrong measurement and you might blow something up (literally). That's why they pay well and train extensively.
The Upsides:
- Excellent job security
- High pay (average $70,000)
- Constant innovation
- Clean, modern facilities (usually)
- Global career options
The Downsides:
- Strict safety requirements
- Lots of regulations
- Public perception issues
- Extensive training needed
- Some chemical exposure risks
Chemical engineers basically print money. If you've got the degree, these companies will fight over you.
8. Automotive Manufacturing
Auto manufacturing employs 1 million Americans directly, with millions more in related industries.
The Players:
- Toyota: 370,000 employees
- Volkswagen Group: 670,000 worldwide
- General Motors: 155,000 workers
- BMW: 150,000 employees
- Tesla: 127,855 (and hiring aggressively)
The auto industry's undergoing its biggest transformation in 100 years. Electric vehicles, autonomous driving, new materials – everything's changing.
Why It's Exciting:
- Be part of transportation's future
- Good wages and benefits
- Clear career progression
- Innovation everywhere
- Job variety
Why It's Challenging:
- Massive industry changes
- Automation increasing
- Global competition
- Pressure to innovate
- Geographic concentration
If you understand both traditional auto and EV technology, you can write your own ticket.
9. Textile Manufacturing
Textiles employ 530,000 Americans and 75 million people globally. That's a lot of jobs making clothes, carpets, and industrial fabrics.
Global Perspective:
- India: 45+ million textile jobs
- Bangladesh: 4+ million workers
- Vietnam: 2.5 million employees
- US: 530,000 (mostly specialized/technical)
The US textile industry focuses on high-tech fabrics: military gear, medical textiles, industrial applications. Not so much basic t-shirts.
What Works:
- Easy entry for beginners
- Creative opportunities
- Growing technical textiles sector
- Some areas reviving domestically
- Clear skill progression
What's Difficult:
- Global wage competition brutal
- Automation displacing basic roles
- Environmental scrutiny
- Fashion industry volatility
- Often requires relocation
Smart textile workers specialize in technical fabrics or sustainable production. That's where the money is.
10. Aerospace Manufacturing
Aerospace employs 509,000 Americans building planes, rockets, and satellites. It's basic industry meets rocket science.
The Big Names:
- Boeing: 141,000 employees
- Airbus: 131,000 workers
- Lockheed Martin: 116,000 employees
- Northrop Grumman: 95,000 workers
- SpaceX: 13,000+ (and growing)
This industry demands perfection. When you're building something that flies at 30,000 feet, "good enough" doesn't cut it.
Why Aerospace Rocks:
- Top-tier pay and benefits
- Work on amazing projects
- Job security (defense contracts)
- Cutting-edge technology
- Prestige factor
Why It's Demanding:
- Security clearances required
- Extreme quality standards
- Long project timelines
- Geographic limitations
- Vulnerable to budget cuts
The space industry's exploding (figuratively). Companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin are hiring like crazy.
11. Paper and Pulp Industry
Paper employs 370,000 Americans. Yes, even in the digital age, we still need paper (and cardboard, and packaging, and...).
Major Employers:
- International Paper: 38,000 employees
- WestRock: 50,000 workers
- Stora Enso: 22,000 employees
- Georgia-Pacific: significant workforce
The industry's evolved beyond just paper. Packaging for e-commerce, sustainable materials, specialty products – it's more diverse than you'd think.
The Good:
- Stable employment
- Often in smaller towns (low cost of living)
- Sustainability focus growing
- Technical roles increasing
- Benefits typically solid
The Challenges:
- Digital disruption real
- Environmental concerns
- Some facilities closing
- Can be in remote areas
- Modernization ongoing
Package engineering is hot right now. As e-commerce grows, so does demand for innovative packaging.
12. Food Processing
Food processing employs 1.7 million Americans, making sure grocery stores stay stocked.
The Giants:
- Tyson Foods: 142,000 employees
- JBS USA: 70,000 workers
- PepsiCo: 315,000 employees
- Nestlé: 273,000 workers
- Thousands of regional processors
Everyone eats, which means food processing jobs aren't going anywhere. From slaughterhouses to bakeries to frozen food plants, variety abounds.
What's Good:
- Jobs everywhere food is produced
- No experience needed for many roles
- Benefits often included
- Overtime available
- Clear advancement paths
What's Tough:
- Can be cold (freezers) or hot (ovens)
- Repetitive work
- Strict food safety rules
- Shift work common
- Physical demands
Food safety and quality control roles pay well and are always in demand. Consider getting certified.
13. Renewable Energy
Renewable energy employs 500,000+ Americans and growing fast. Solar, wind, hydro – it's all expanding.
Where the Jobs Are:
- Solar industry: 250,000 jobs
- Wind energy: 120,000 jobs
- Hydroelectric: 66,000 jobs
- Bioenergy: 50,000 jobs
- Geothermal: 15,000 jobs
This sector's growing at 8.5% annually. That's insane growth for any industry.
Why Jump In Now:
- Massive growth trajectory
- Government support strong
- Feel good about your work
- Technology advancing rapidly
- Geographic diversity
Current Challenges:
- Some political uncertainty
- Technical skills needed
- Geographic limitations (wind/solar)
- Competition for workers
- Industry still maturing
Wind turbine technicians make $60,000+ with just technical training. Not bad for climbing towers with a view.
14. Utilities
Utilities employ 550,000 Americans keeping lights on and water flowing.
The Breakdown:
- Electric utilities: 400,000 jobs
- Water/wastewater: 100,000 jobs
- Natural gas distribution: 50,000 jobs
- Growing municipal operations
Utilities offer something rare: true job security. People always need electricity and water.
The Benefits:
- Incredibly stable employment
- Excellent benefits packages
- Serving your community
- Technical challenges
- Good work-life balance
The Realities:
- On-call for emergencies
- Storm work required
- Regulatory complexity
- Public scrutiny
- Infrastructure challenges
Power plant operators make $80,000+ with technical training. Lineworkers can clear $100,000 with overtime.
15. Transportation and Logistics
Transportation employs 5.2 million Americans moving stuff from Point A to Point B.
Who's Hiring:
- UPS: 540,000 employees
- FedEx: 530,000 workers
- XPO Logistics: 43,000 employees
- J.B. Hunt: 33,000 workers
- Amazon: massive logistics hiring
E-commerce exploded transportation demand. Those Amazon packages don't deliver themselves (yet).
Why It Works:
- Jobs literally everywhere
- Flexible scheduling options
- No degree required
- Can work independently
- Clear performance metrics
Why It's Tough:
- Traffic. So much traffic.
- Physical packages = physical work
- Weather doesn't stop deliveries
- Time pressure constant
- Automation threatening some roles
CDL drivers with clean records are gold. Companies offer signing bonuses, paid training, the works.
What Do Basic Industries Jobs Pay? Complete Salary Breakdown
Let's talk money. Because that's why most of us work, right?
The average basic industries worker makes $18.90 per hour. That's about $39,000 annually for full-time work. But averages hide the real story.
Industry Pay Scales - The Real Numbers
The Highest-Paying Positions
Want to make serious money? Here's where to aim:
- Petroleum Engineer: $132,564/year (design oil extraction systems)
- Power Plant Manager: $149,818/year (run electricity generation)
- Construction Manager: $131,710/year (oversee building projects)
- Chemical Engineer: $95,835/year (design chemical processes)
- Mining Engineer: $94,440/year (plan mineral extraction)
Notice something? Engineers and managers dominate the top pay. But you don't need those roles to make good money.
Skilled trades also pay well:
- Elevator installers: $99,000/year
- Power line workers: $72,000/year
- Industrial electricians: $60,000/year
- Welders (specialized): $55,000/year
- Heavy equipment operators: $50,000/year
How to Land Jobs in Basic Industries
Alright, so there are millions of jobs. How do you actually get one?
First, let's bust a myth: You don't need connections or experience to start. Basic industries hire beginners constantly. They have to – baby boomers are retiring in droves.
Step 1: Pick Your Target
Don't spray and pray. Choose 1-2 industries that match your situation:
Love working outdoors? Construction, agriculture, or miningPrefer indoor work? Manufacturing or food processingWant highest pay? Oil & gas or aerospaceNeed work anywhere? Transportation or constructionTech-interested? Modern manufacturing or renewable energy
Step 2: Get the Basic Qualifications
Most entry-level basic industry jobs need:
- High school diploma or GED
- Pass a drug test
- Physical ability for the work
- Reliable transportation
- Legal work status
That's it. Seriously.
For better positions, consider:
- Technical school certificates
- CDL license
- OSHA safety certification
- Apprenticeship programs
- Community college courses
Step 3: Make Your Resume Work
Basic industries care about different things than office jobs. Your resume should emphasize:
- Reliability (perfect attendance awards? Include them)
- Physical capability (played sports? Mention it)
- Technical skills (can fix cars? Say so)
- Safety consciousness (any safety training counts)
- Teamwork (group projects, team sports, military service)
Skip the fancy formatting. Clear, simple, easy to read.
Step 4: Apply Smart
Where to find basic industry jobs:
Company websites (40% of hires come direct)
- Go straight to careers pages
- Set up job alerts
- Apply even without perfect qualifications
Indeed/ZipRecruiter (25% of hires)
- Use industry keywords
- Set location radius wide
- Apply quickly (first applicants get noticed)
Staffing agencies (20% of hires)
- Specialize in industrial placement
- Often place temp-to-perm
- Can get you in the door fast
Job fairs (10% of hires)
- Bring multiple resumes
- Dress work-appropriate
- Research attending companies
Employee referrals (5% but highest success rate)
- Ask everyone you know
- Check LinkedIn connections
- Join industry Facebook groups
Step 5: Ace the Interview
Basic industry interviews are different. They're usually shorter, more practical.
Common questions:
- "Can you work rotating shifts?"
- "How do you handle repetitive tasks?"
- "Tell me about your safety experience"
- "Are you comfortable with physical work?"
- "Can you work overtime when needed?"
What they're really asking: Are you reliable? Will you show up? Can you handle the work?
Pro tips:
- Arrive 15 minutes early
- Dress appropriately (clean clothes, work boots if you have them)
- Bring multiple copies of your resume
- Ask about training programs
- Show enthusiasm for learning
Future Job Growth Projections 2025-2030
Here's what's coming in basic industries:
The Winners (Fastest Growth)
Emerging Opportunities
New roles appearing everywhere:
- Drone operators for inspection
- 3D printing technicians
- Sustainability coordinators
- Automation specialists
- Data analysts for production
- Battery technology workers
- Carbon capture technicians
- Renewable energy installers
What's Driving Growth
$1.2 trillion infrastructure spending - Roads, bridges, airports all need workers
Energy transition - Renewable energy creating entirely new job categories
Reshoring manufacturing - Companies bringing production back to US
E-commerce explosion - More stuff ordered = more transportation needed
Technology integration - Every industry needs tech-savvy workers
Jobs by State and Region
Location matters in basic industries. Here's where the jobs are concentrated:
Manufacturing Heartland
- Michigan: 580,000 manufacturing jobs
- Ohio: 680,000 manufacturing jobs
- Indiana: 530,000 manufacturing jobs
- Wisconsin: 470,000 manufacturing jobs
- Illinois: 570,000 manufacturing jobs
Energy Corridor
- Texas: 450,000 energy jobs (plus everything else)
- Louisiana: 240,000 energy jobs
- North Dakota: 85,000 energy jobs (big money here)
- Pennsylvania: 150,000 energy jobs
- Oklahoma: 120,000 energy jobs
Agricultural Centers
- California: 420,000 agriculture jobs
- Iowa: 160,000 agriculture jobs
- Nebraska: 140,000 agriculture jobs
- Kansas: 130,000 agriculture jobs
- Wisconsin: 120,000 agriculture jobs
Mining Regions
- West Virginia: 50,000 mining jobs
- Wyoming: 45,000 mining jobs
- Kentucky: 40,000 mining jobs
- Nevada: 35,000 mining jobs
- Arizona: 38,000 mining jobs
Best Cities for Basic Industry Jobs
- Houston, TX: Energy capital, 280,000+ jobs
- Chicago, IL: Manufacturing hub, 250,000+ jobs
- Detroit, MI: Auto industry center, 180,000+ jobs
- Dallas-Fort Worth, TX: Everything, 170,000+ jobs
- Phoenix, AZ: Construction boom, 150,000+ jobs
Cost of living matters too. Making $50,000 in rural Iowa goes way further than in Los Angeles.
Entry-Level Basic Industries Jobs (No Degree Required)
This is the best part: Most basic industry jobs don't require a degree. At all.
Manufacturing Entry Points
- Assembly Worker: $32,000/year (build products)
- Machine Operator: $35,000/year (run equipment)
- Quality Inspector: $38,000/year (check products)
- Material Handler: $30,000/year (move stuff)
- Packer: $28,000/year (package products)
Construction Starters
- Laborer: $35,000/year (general help)
- Apprentice: $38,000/year (learn a trade)
- Helper: $32,000/year (assist skilled workers)
- Flagger: $30,000/year (direct traffic)
- Equipment Operator: $42,000/year (with training)
Agriculture Beginners
- Farm Hand: $28,000/year (general farm work)
- Harvest Worker: $26,000/year (seasonal)
- Equipment Operator: $35,000/year (tractors, etc.)
- Livestock Handler: $30,000/year (animal care)
- Packing Shed Worker: $28,000/year (sort/pack produce)
Mining Entry Level
- Miner Helper: $40,000/year (assist miners)
- Equipment Operator: $45,000/year (heavy machinery)
- Haul Truck Driver: $50,000/year (move materials)
- Processing Worker: $38,000/year (operate crushers)
- Laborer: $35,000/year (general work)
How to Move Up Fast
Starting wages aren't amazing. But here's the secret: You can double your salary in 5 years by:
- Show up every day (seriously, attendance matters)
- Learn everything (volunteer for training)
- Stay safe (safety violations kill careers)
- Be flexible (take overtime, different shifts)
- Get certified (forklift, CDL, whatever's offered)
Example: Start as construction laborer at $35,000. Become equipment operator at $50,000. Get certified as crane operator at $75,000. Become foreman at $85,000. Five years, more than doubled.
Remote Jobs in Basic Industries
"Wait, remote work in basic industries?"
Yes, actually. While you can't mine coal from your couch, many support roles are remote:
Engineering & Design
- CAD Designer: $65,000/year (design from anywhere)
- Process Engineer: $85,000/year (optimize remotely)
- Project Manager: $90,000/year (coordinate teams)
- Technical Writer: $60,000/year (create documentation)
- Safety Coordinator: $70,000/year (develop programs)
Data & Analysis
- Supply Chain Analyst: $75,000/year (optimize logistics)
- Quality Analyst: $70,000/year (analyze defects)
- Production Planner: $65,000/year (schedule operations)
- Inventory Analyst: $60,000/year (track materials)
- Cost Analyst: $68,000/year (monitor expenses)
Sales & Support
- Inside Sales: $55,000/year + commission
- Customer Service: $40,000/year (handle orders)
- Procurement Specialist: $65,000/year (buy materials)
- Logistics Coordinator: $58,000/year (arrange shipping)
- Technical Support: $50,000/year (help customers)
The Hybrid Option
Many positions offer partial remote:
- Site visits 1-2 days per week
- Remote planning, on-site execution
- Flexible scheduling
- Work from home when not needed on-site
This is becoming more common as companies struggle to find workers.
Is Basic Industries a Good Career Path?
Let me be straight with you.
The Good
✅ Job security - These industries aren't disappearing
✅ No student loans - Start earning immediately
✅ Clear advancement - You can see the path up
✅ Good pay - Often better than jobs requiring degrees
✅ Real skills - Learn things you can use anywhere
✅ Benefits - Health insurance, retirement, paid time off
✅ Pride - You make real things people need
✅ Variety - Thousands of different roles available
✅ Geographic options - Jobs everywhere
✅ Overtime pay - Time-and-a-half adds up fast
The Reality Check
❌ Physical work - Your body will feel it
❌ Shift work - Nights, weekends happen
❌ Weather exposure - Hot summers, cold winters
❌ Safety risks - Higher than office work
❌ Automation threat - Some jobs will disappear
❌ Cyclical - Economic downturns hit hard
❌ Public perception - Some look down on blue collar
❌ Environmental concerns - Some industries under pressure
Who Thrives in Basic Industries?
You'll love it if you:
- Prefer doing over talking
- Want to see concrete results
- Like working with your hands
- Value job security over prestige
- Enjoy being part of a team
- Can handle physical work
- Want clear career progression
- Appreciate good benefits
- Don't mind getting dirty
- Value work-life balance
Who Should Look Elsewhere?
Skip basic industries if you:
- Hate physical work
- Need climate control always
- Want purely mental challenges
- Require flexible scheduling
- Can't handle repetition
- Need constant variety
- Want work-from-home only
- Seek cutting-edge tech only
- Value prestige over pay
- Have physical limitations
Frequently Asked Questions
How many jobs are currently available in basic industries?
There are 24.5 million jobs in basic industries as of 2025. The Bureau of Labor Statistics tracks this, and the number includes all employment in manufacturing, construction, agriculture, mining, utilities, and transportation. Plus over 10 million job postings are active right now.
What is the average salary in basic industries?
The average hourly wage is $18.90, or about $39,312 annually for full-time workers. But this varies wildly. Oil and gas workers average $75,000+. Entry-level agriculture might start at $28,000. Location matters too - same job pays different in Texas vs New York.
Which basic industry has the most job openings?
Manufacturing leads with over 1 million direct jobs. Transportation/logistics is huge too with 5.2 million jobs. Agriculture employs 2.1 million. Construction has 1 million. But renewable energy is growing fastest at 8.5% annually.
Do I need a degree to work in basic industries?
Nope. About 60% of basic industry jobs require only high school education. Many offer paid training. Apprenticeships are common. You can start Monday in many roles. Some technical positions need degrees, but most don't.
Are there remote jobs in basic industries?
Yes, surprisingly. Engineering, design, analysis, planning, sales, and support roles can be remote. About 15% of basic industry jobs offer some remote work. Hybrid is becoming more common too.
What are the highest-paying jobs in basic industries?
Top money goes to:
- Petroleum engineers ($132,564)
- Power plant managers ($149,818)
- Construction managers ($131,710)
- Chemical engineers ($95,835)
- Mining engineers ($94,440)
But skilled trades like elevator installers ($99,000) and power line workers ($72,000) also pay great.
Which states have the most basic industry jobs?
Texas wins with 1.2 million jobs across all basic industries. California has 980,000. Ohio brings 850,000. Michigan offers 780,000. Illinois has 720,000. But don't overlook smaller states - they might have better opportunities with less competition.
How safe are basic industry jobs?
They're riskier than office work (3.1 injuries per 100 workers vs 0.9). But safety has improved dramatically. Modern equipment, better training, and strict regulations cut serious injuries by 65% since 2000. Follow safety rules and you'll likely be fine.
What skills are most valuable in basic industries?
Top skills employers want:
- Equipment operation
- Safety awareness
- Physical stamina
- Problem-solving
- Team collaboration
- Basic computer skills
- Mechanical aptitude
- Communication
- Reliability (showing up matters)
- Willingness to learn
Will automation eliminate basic industry jobs?
Some jobs will go away - probably 15% by 2030. But new jobs will appear. Net effect is positive, with more jobs created than lost. Key is staying flexible and learning new skills. The humans who work with robots will do great.
How do I apply for basic industry jobs?
Best approaches ranked by success rate:
- Company websites directly (40% of hires)
- Indeed/job boards (25% of hires)
- Networking/referrals (20% of hires)
- Job fairs (10% of hires)
- Recruiters/staffing agencies (5% of hires)
Apply fast - first applicants get more attention.
What benefits do basic industry jobs typically offer?
Most full-time positions include:
- Health insurance (85% of employers)
- Retirement/401k (78% offer)
- Paid time off (92% provide)
- Life insurance (70% include)
- Disability coverage (65% offer)
- Some union jobs have even better benefits
How long does it take to advance in basic industries?
Typical progression:
- Entry to skilled: 1-2 years
- Skilled to lead: 3-5 years
- Lead to supervisor: 5-8 years
- Supervisor to manager: 10+ years
But hustlers move faster. Getting certifications, taking overtime, and learning everything speeds advancement by 30%.
What's the job outlook for basic industries through 2030?
Overall growth of 2.7% means 665,000 new jobs. Renewable energy exploding at 8.5% yearly. Construction growing 4.2%. Traditional manufacturing slower at 0.6% but still adding jobs. New technology creating entirely new job categories.
Can I switch between different basic industries?
Absolutely. Skills transfer well:
- Equipment operation works everywhere
- Safety training applies universally
- Management skills cross industries
- Quality control is similar
- Supply chain knowledge transfers
About 73% of people who try switching industries succeed.
The Bottom Line: Your Next Move
So there you have it. 24.5 million jobs in basic industries, and they need people desperately.
These aren't glamorous jobs. Nobody's making Hollywood movies about forklift operators. But they're real jobs with real paychecks that let you build a real life.
While everyone else racks up student loans chasing desk jobs, you could be earning $50,000+ with full benefits and a clear path to $75,000+.
The question isn't whether these opportunities exist. They do. Millions of them.
The question is: What are you going to do about it?
Your Action Plan:
- Pick 2-3 industries that interest you
- Check job boards for openings in your area
- Update your resume with relevant skills
- Apply to 10 positions this week
- Follow up after one week
Remember: These industries built America. They'll build your career too, if you let them.
The jobs are there. The money's good. The path is clear.
Time to get to work.
Last updated: May 2025 | Data sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Department of Energy, USDA Employment Data, Industry Reports
Don't miss out on
your next opportunity.
Create and send applications in seconds, not hours.
