Best Paying Jobs In Basic Industries

Written by Mark DeGrasso

June 7, 2023

Basic Industries are industries that deal with the production of goods and services that meet the basic needs of human beings. This type of industry is essential for any economy to prosper and grow. It offers various employment opportunities, and some of them are well-paying jobs that one can consider pursuing. In this article, we will look at the best paying jobs in basic industries, the pros, and cons of taking high-paying jobs, the companies to consider, and whether or not a career in basic industries is a good option. Let’s dive in.

Top 10 Highest Paying Jobs in Basic Industries

Petroleum Engineer

Median Salary: $137,720

Job Overview: Petroleum Engineers design and develop methods for extracting oil and gas from deposits below the Earth’s surface. They also find new ways to extract oil and gas from older wells.

Natural Sciences Manager

Median Salary: $129,100

Job Overview: Natural Sciences Managers supervise the work of scientists, including chemists, physicists, and biologists. They direct activities related to research and development and coordinate activities such as testing, quality control, and production.

Engineering Manager

Median Salary: $140,760

Job Overview: Engineering Managers plan, coordinate, and direct activities in architectural and engineering companies. They oversee the development of a wide variety of products and services in many types of organizations.

Geoscientist

Median Salary: $92,040

Job Overview: Geoscientists study the physical aspects of the Earth to learn about its past, present, and future.

Chemical Engineer

Median Salary: $108,770

Job Overview: Chemical Engineers apply the principles of chemistry, biology, physics, and math to solve problems that involve the production or use of chemicals, fuel, drugs, food, and many other products.

Mining and Geological Engineer

Median Salary: $91,160

Job Overview: Mining and Geological Engineers design mines to safely and efficiently remove minerals for use in manufacturing and utilities.

Environmental Engineer

Median Salary: $88,860

Job Overview: Environmental Engineers use the principles of engineering, soil science, biology, and chemistry to develop solutions to environmental problems.

Industrial Production Manager

Median Salary: $105,480

Job Overview: Industrial Production Managers oversee the daily operations of manufacturing and related plants.

Agricultural Engineer

Median Salary: $80,720

Job Overview: Agricultural Engineers solve problems concerning power supplies, machine efficiency, the use of structures and facilities, pollution and environmental issues, and the storage and processing of agricultural products.

Materials Scientist

Median Salary: $99,530

Job Overview: Materials Scientists study substances at the atomic and molecular levels and analyze the ways in which the substances interact with one another. They use their knowledge to develop new and improved products and to test the quality of manufactured goods.

The Pros and Cons of Taking a High-Paying Job in Basic Industries

While high-paying jobs in basic industries are attractive, they come with advantages and disadvantages. Let’s look at some of them:

Pros:

1. High Earnings: Basic industries provide some of the highest-paying jobs in the market, making them an attractive career path for individuals seeking financial stability.

2. Job Security: Basic industries are the backbone of any economy, and they offer stable jobs that are unlikely to be affected by economic downturns. This means that individuals working in basic industries can enjoy a sense of security, knowing that their jobs are not at risk due to market fluctuations or economic instability.

3. Career Growth: Most high-paying jobs in basic industries come with the potential for career growth, with opportunities for promotion, additional responsibility, and higher pay. This is particularly true for individuals who are willing to put in the time and effort to learn the skills necessary to advance in their field.

4. Contributing to Society: Basic industries play a critical role in society, providing the raw materials and infrastructure necessary for economic growth and development. By working in a basic industry, individuals can feel a sense of pride in knowing that they are contributing to the betterment of society.

Cons:

1. Work-Life Balance: Jobs in basic industries can be demanding and require long hours, which can negatively impact work-family balance. This is particularly true for individuals working in industries such as mining and construction, which often require workers to be away from home for extended periods of time.

2. Physical Labor: Certain jobs in basic industries, such as construction and mining, can be physically demanding and stressful on the body. This can lead to chronic pain, injuries, and other health issues, particularly for individuals who do not take care of their bodies through proper nutrition, exercise, and rest.

3. Work Hazard: Working conditions can be hazardous, with exposure to chemicals, dust, noise, and machinery, among other risks. This can lead to a range of health issues, including respiratory problems, hearing loss, and other physical injuries. Additionally, workers in basic industries may be exposed to toxic substances that can have long-term health effects.

4. Limited Job Options: While basic industries offer stable jobs, they may not provide the same level of job options as other industries. This can be particularly true for individuals who do not have specialized skills or education, as many basic industry jobs require specific training or experience.

Overall, high-paying jobs in basic industries can be a great option for individuals seeking financial stability and job security. However, it is important to consider the potential drawbacks, such as long hours, physical labor, work hazards, and limited job options, before making a decision to pursue a career in this field. By carefully weighing the pros and cons, individuals can make an informed decision about whether a high-paying job in a basic industry is the right choice for them.

What are some companies in Basic Industries?

Basic Industries are a crucial part of any economy. These industries provide the foundation for many other industries to thrive and grow. Basic Industries are typically involved in the production and manufacturing of goods and services that are essential to our daily lives. These industries provide employment opportunities with numerous companies in the market. Here are some companies that offer high-paying jobs in basic industries:

  • Exxon Mobil Corporation: Exxon Mobil Corporation is one of the largest oil and gas companies in the world. The company is involved in the exploration, production, and refining of petroleum products. Exxon Mobil has operations in over 50 countries and employs over 70,000 people worldwide.
  • General Electric Company: General Electric Company is a multinational conglomerate that operates in a variety of industries, including aviation, healthcare, and renewable energy. The company has a long history of innovation and is known for its cutting-edge technology. General Electric employs over 200,000 people worldwide.
  • Caterpillar Inc.: Caterpillar Inc. is a leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines, and diesel-electric locomotives. The company has operations in over 180 countries and employs over 100,000 people worldwide.
  • Alcoa Corporation: Alcoa Corporation is a global leader in the production of bauxite, alumina, and aluminum products. The company has operations in over 10 countries and employs over 14,000 people worldwide.
  • Lockheed Martin Corporation: Lockheed Martin Corporation is a global aerospace and defense company that is involved in the production of advanced technology systems and products. The company has operations in over 50 countries and employs over 100,000 people worldwide.

These companies are just a few examples of the many companies that operate in basic industries. If you are looking for a career in these industries, there are many opportunities available. These industries are essential to the growth and development of any economy, and they offer stable and high-paying jobs for those who are willing to work hard and learn new skills.

Is Basic Industries a Good Career Path?

Many people view basic industries as a stable and secure industry to work in. As the world population continues to grow, the demand for basic needs increases; hence, basic industries are likely to remain in high demand. Basic industries also offer high-paying jobs, making it an attractive career path to pursue. However, it is important to consider the above-discussed pros and cons before transitioning into this industry.

One of the advantages of working in basic industries is job stability. Basic industries are essential to the functioning of society and are therefore less likely to be affected by economic downturns. This means that employees in basic industries are less likely to face layoffs or job losses, providing a sense of security and stability in their careers.

In addition to job stability, basic industries also offer opportunities for career growth and advancement. Many basic industries have a hierarchical structure, which means that employees can work their way up the ladder through promotions and experience. This allows individuals to develop their skills and knowledge, which can translate into higher-paying positions and greater job satisfaction.

However, one of the potential drawbacks of working in basic industries is the physical demands of the job. Many basic industries, such as mining and manufacturing, require employees to work in harsh environments and perform physically demanding tasks. This can lead to health issues and injuries, which can impact the longevity of a career in this industry.

Another potential disadvantage of working in basic industries is the environmental impact. Many basic industries have a significant impact on the environment, such as air and water pollution. This can lead to negative health effects for employees and nearby residents, as well as long-term damage to the environment.

Overall, while basic industries offer job stability and high-paying careers, it is important to carefully consider the potential drawbacks before pursuing a career in this industry. By weighing the pros and cons, individuals can make an informed decision about whether a career in basic industries is the right path for them.

Basic Industries FAQ

1. What is a basic industry?

A basic industry is a sector that deals with the production of goods and services that meet the primary needs of a population.

Basic industries are the backbone of any economy. They are responsible for producing the goods and services that are essential to our daily lives. These industries include agriculture, mining, energy production, and manufacturing.

Without basic industries, we would not have access to the food, energy, and other goods that we rely on every day.

2. What are the benefits of working in basic industries?

The benefits of working in basic industries are numerous. These industries offer high-paying jobs, job security, and potential career growth.

Working in basic industries can also be rewarding. Many of these industries are responsible for producing goods and services that improve people’s lives, such as renewable energy and medical equipment.

Additionally, many basic industries offer opportunities for workers to develop new skills and advance their careers.

3. What are some of the highest-paying jobs in basic industries?

Some of the highest-paying jobs in basic industries include Chief Executive Officer, General Manager, Senior Project Manager, Engineering Manager, and Operations Manager, among others.

These positions require advanced education and years of experience, but they offer excellent salaries and opportunities for career growth.

Other high-paying jobs in basic industries include geologists, petroleum engineers, and chemical engineers.

4. What are some companies to consider when searching for jobs in basic industries?

Companies that offer high-paying jobs in basic industries include Exxon Mobil Corporation, General Electric Company, Caterpillar Inc., Alcoa Corporation, and Lockheed Martin Corporation.

These companies are leaders in their respective industries and offer numerous opportunities for career growth and development.

Other companies to consider include Dow Chemical Company, ConocoPhillips, and Chevron Corporation.

In conclusion, basic industries provide numerous employment opportunities with high-paying jobs. However, before considering career growth in this industry, it is essential to weigh the advantages and disadvantages to ensure that the profession is the right fit.

Working in basic industries can be challenging but rewarding. These industries are essential to our daily lives, and they offer opportunities for workers to make a real difference in the world.

If you are interested in pursuing a career in basic industries, be sure to do your research and find the right company and position for you.