7 Worst Jobs in America

July 9, 2011|Interesting Facts| No comments yet

The unfortunate common denominator regarding the worst jobs in America, are they appear to be a disturbing combination of the most dangerous and physically demanding career choices available. Despite this apparent truth, it seems inexplicably strange that these same jobs happen to be criminally underpaid.

What makes any particular job one of the worst in America? Certainly the reasons referenced above are major factors, but also job stress and economic viability play a significant role too. Think you have one of the worst jobs? Perhaps you should think again.

7. Welder

Welding metal joints together usually requires the use of uncomfortable protective masks and visors. Generally, welding is performed in uncomfortably hot work environments and there is real potential for burns and eye injuries.

6. Emergency Medical Technician

Long and irregular hours can be tiresome over an extended haul, especially being on call 24 hours a day. In addition, emergencies don’t take a break for holidays either. The average EMT makes well under $30,000 annually.

5. Lumberjack

Cutting down trees may seem innocuous enough, but being a lumberjack is the third most deadly occupation. Lumberjacks work outdoors in all kinds of weather and usually in desolate locations. Plus, it’s a very physically demanding job. The average lumberjack earns less than $14 hourly.

4. Roofer

Roofing is another outdoor job, subject to the mercy of weather and extreme temperatures. The inherent height which roofers work can lead to dangerous falls and injury.

3. Taxi Driver

The benefits of flexible scheduling and unsupervised work can be appealing, but the average Taxi Driver earns barely over $21,000 annually. Drivers in more dangerous urban environments can face the unfortunate risk of violent crime.

2. Iron Workers

Iron Workers face a bevy of danger and potential obstacles. Many work at extreme heights, hampered by heavy tool belts, and work with hot metal. This industry is prone to suffer slowdowns during economic downturns and weather can truly be an uncomfortable factor. The risky tasks of Iron Workers make it the fourth deadliest job in America, yet the median hourly wage is less than $20.

1. Roustabout

A Roustabout performs backbreaking grunt work on offshore oil platforms and pipelines. It’s an entry-level position mired with entry-level pay. Grueling 12 hour shifts, seven days a week for weeks at a time, are commonplace.

Most people complain about their jobs, but judging from the above information, maybe they shouldn’t.