Five of America’s Lowest Paying Jobs
July 13, 2011|Interesting Facts| No comments yet
The economy is rough right now, and many people are grateful to find any employment at all, even if it is work that barely pays the bills. With national minimum wage currently set at just $7.25 an hour, many people struggle to stay afloat. Below are five of the lowest paying jobs in the United States today. As of 2008, according to the U.S. Department of Labor, each of these jobs earns an average salary of under $20,000 per year.
Farmworkers and Day Laborers
Some of the hardest work out there is done by some of the most poorly paid people in the country. Farmworkers and laborers do the heavy lifting, the outdoor work in all weather, the long hours with few breaks, and they often do it for minimum wage. Because the work is so strenuous, even able-bodied individuals can burn out quickly, but this is work that is usually available for those willing to put in the effort.
Cashiers
It seems ironic that people who handle hundreds or even thousands of dollars each day are among the worst paid employees around, but it is true. Cashiering is not as simple a job as many people tend to believe. Not only does it require solid math skills, it also demands a pleasant, friendly personality, good communication skills, and in many cases, even the ability to up-sell to customers at the register. Cashiers may not bring home the big bucks, but they work very hard for every dollar they earn.
Ushers, Attendants, and Ticket Takers
Consider a simple trip to the movies. Tickets are purchased from a cashier. An usher or attendant keeps the floors and aisles of the theater clean, calms angry patrons, resolves disputes, and helps latecomers locate seats. A ticket taker checks the validity of the ticket and provides directions and information if requested. All of these individuals typically earn less than the cost of just one ticket each hour, even though the work they perform is the only thing that keeps the theater itself running smoothly.
Shampooers
The shampoo girl at the salon has it tough. On her feet all day every day, she sweeps hair clippings from the floor, shampoos dozens of heads of all kinds of hair, answers the phone and books appointments when needed, and all the while, keeps up a pleasant burble of friendly conversation with co-workers and customers alike. In many salons, it is considered customary to tip the shampooer, and with good reason.
Fast Food Cooks, Clerks, and Dishwashers
Everyone who has ever been out of work has heard, “McDonald’s is always hiring!” Traditionally the domain of teenagers looking to earn extra cash, in these difficult financial times, more and more people are finding themselves working behind a fast food counter. The hours can be challenging and ever-changing, staff turnover is often high, and the environment is stressful and fast-paced. Fast food workers rarely receive praise and deal with demanding jobs for pay that rarely covers their needs, making these truly the lowest paying jobs in America today.
