Top 20 Best-Paying Jobs in Basic Industries [2025]

Basic industries—

They’re the backbone of everything we rely on, from the metals in our buildings to the chemicals in our products. 

Yet, these industries often operate behind the scenes, steady and essential.

But here’s the surprise: they don’t just offer stability; they pay well, too.

So, if you’re aiming for a career that’s both rewarding and resilient, basic industries might just be your answer.

Let’s explore the highest-paying roles in this foundational sector and see what could be next for you.

High-Paying Careers in Basic Industries

1. Petroleum Engineer

Average Salary: $95,000 – $180,000

Petroleum Engineers design and develop methods for extracting oil and gas from reservoirs. Their work involves analyzing geological data and creating efficient extraction processes, which are essential in the energy sector. They often work in remote locations and collaborate closely with geologists and other engineers to ensure maximum yield and safety.

2. Mining Engineer

Average Salary: $90,000 – $175,000

Mining Engineers evaluate mining sites, plan extraction processes, and oversee operations to ensure safe and efficient resource recovery. They balance extraction with environmental impact considerations and manage teams of miners, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental standards.

3. Chemical Engineer

Average Salary: $85,000 – $160,000

Chemical Engineers develop processes for manufacturing chemicals used across industries, focusing on efficiency, safety, and environmental impact. They work in laboratories and on-site in production facilities, often innovating to improve the quality and sustainability of products.

4. Geoscientist

Average Salary: $80,000 – $150,000

Geoscientists analyze earth materials to locate valuable resources such as oil, minerals, and natural gas. Their findings guide extraction strategies and environmental protection efforts. Geoscientists often work in the field, using cutting-edge technology to study rock formations and predict resource locations.

5. Materials Scientist

Average Salary: $75,000 – $140,000

Materials Scientists research and develop new materials for industries, including metals and polymers. They explore the properties and applications of materials, supporting innovation in manufacturing. Their work drives advancements in fields like nanotechnology and renewable energy materials.

6. Environmental Engineer

Average Salary: $70,000 – $130,000

Environmental Engineers work to ensure industrial processes comply with regulations, focusing on waste management and pollution control. They play a key role in promoting sustainability in basic industries. From water treatment to air quality management, they create solutions for eco-friendly operations.

7. Industrial Production Manager

Average Salary: $65,000 – $125,000

Industrial Production Managers oversee manufacturing operations, ensuring productivity and quality. They are responsible for efficient resource management and safe working environments. They handle scheduling, budgeting, and quality control to meet production targets.

8. Agricultural Engineer

Average Salary: $60,000 – $120,000

Agricultural Engineers design equipment and systems to improve farming practices. They develop solutions for sustainable production, irrigation, and waste management in agriculture. By working with innovative technology, they help increase food production efficiency and reduce environmental impact.

9. Power Plant Operator

Average Salary: $55,000 – $110,000

Power Plant Operators manage the operations of energy-generating facilities, ensuring efficient and safe energy production. Their work is vital for maintaining power infrastructure. They monitor systems in real-time to prevent issues and perform regular maintenance to keep operations smooth.

10. Hydrologist

Average Salary: $52,000 – $105,000

Hydrologists study water resources and distribution, analyzing data to manage water systems and support sustainable water use in industries such as agriculture and mining. They use modeling tools to predict floods, droughts, and other water-related risks.

11. Quality Control Inspector

Average Salary: $50,000 – $100,000

Quality Control Inspectors ensure that products meet required standards by conducting tests and inspections. They help maintain the quality and consistency of industrial production. They work closely with production teams to identify and resolve issues before products reach the market.

12. Construction Manager

Average Salary: $48,000 – $95,000

Construction Managers oversee building projects, coordinating materials, labor, and equipment to complete projects on time and within budget. They work closely with engineers and architects. They’re involved in every phase, from planning to execution, ensuring safety regulations are met.

13. Field Service Technician

Average Salary: $45,000 – $90,000

Field Service Technicians maintain and repair equipment used in industries like energy and construction. They provide on-site support, ensuring equipment is operational and safe. With technical expertise and problem-solving skills, they’re crucial for minimizing downtime in field operations.

14. Industrial Engineer

Average Salary: $42,000 – $85,000

Industrial Engineers focus on improving production efficiency by designing optimized systems that balance resources, reduce waste, and increase productivity. They analyze workflows and utilize technology to streamline processes across different sectors of production.

15. Logistics Coordinator

Average Salary: $40,000 – $80,000

Logistics Coordinators manage the supply chain, ensuring materials and products are delivered on time. They coordinate transportation, warehousing, and distribution. This role requires strong organizational skills to prevent costly delays and maintain smooth operations.

16. Machinist

Average Salary: $38,000 – $75,000

Machinists operate and maintain machinery used to produce parts and tools. Their work requires precision and skill, ensuring the quality and accuracy of components in manufacturing. Machinists are essential in sectors like automotive and aerospace, where precision is critical.

17. Electrician

Average Salary: $36,000 – $70,000

Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in industrial settings. Their expertise ensures safe and reliable power distribution. Electricians work with everything from complex wiring systems to high-voltage equipment, keeping operations powered and compliant with safety codes.

18. Welder

Average Salary: $35,000 – $65,000

Welders join metal parts, supporting construction and manufacturing. Their role requires skill and precision, as well as knowledge of safety protocols in industrial environments. They work on various projects, from building infrastructure to assembling machinery.

19. Environmental Technician

Average Salary: $33,000 – $60,000

Environmental Technicians conduct tests and analyze samples to monitor environmental impact and support sustainability efforts. They assist engineers in implementing eco-friendly practices. Their role is crucial for industries to comply with environmental regulations and reduce their ecological footprint.

20. Forklift Operator

Average Salary: $30,000 – $55,000

Forklift Operators manage materials within warehouses and production facilities, ensuring the safe movement of goods. They play an essential role in maintaining efficient operations. Skilled in handling heavy equipment, they support logistics by organizing inventory for transport and storage.

Manisha Saini

Manisha is a digital writer providing guidance in career development and growth. She facilitates skill development and implementation of the right strategies for advancement. At Jobera, She documents content around the latest market trend analysis, insights, and career planning.

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