Currently, there are 24,504,000 available jobs in basic Industries, also known as the iron and steel industry. Furthermore, this figure is expected to increase by 2.7% in the next 8 years.
The huge number of employment available in basic industries is because this sector comprises numerous industries that generate raw materials. These secondary industries convert the raw materials generated into end products or commodities.
Why is Basic Industries also called the Iron and Steel Industry?
The basic industries is also called the iron and steel industry because the latter produces iron and steel utilized by secondary industries. Another reason why both phrases are interchanged is that most of the small and medium industries depend on the iron and steel industry. Thus, iron and steel are viewed as a ‘basic commodity’ for other industries.
Overview of the Basic Industries Job Market
The basic industries is an essential component of any economy as it is responsible for the Production of goods and materials that are necessary for the functioning of society. This industry encompasses manufacturing, agricultural, and mining companies.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the basic industries employs over 20 million people nationwide. Basic Industries tend to have stable or increasing demand for workers, as they are often essential to the functioning of the economy.
Factors like technological advancements and global economic conditions affects the demand for workers in this industry. Irrespective of these factors, the basic industries continues to thrive. Currently, there has been an upward rise in employment, and wages in the manufacturing industry, signifying growth in the basic Industries.
10 Most Common and Available Jobs in Basic Industries
Below are some of the common and available jobs in the basic industries. Moreso, these jobs are in high demand and have decent salaries. Provided you have the needed requirements, getting some of these jobs are pretty easy.
Electrical technicians are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems and equipment. They are needed in the basic industries and usually work in manufacturing and mining.
Electrical technicians usually hold a two-year associate degree in electrical, Technical, or related degree. Some also complete an electrical apprenticeship.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 1% increase in job growth for electrical technicians. It will provide 150,780 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
2. Foresters
Average Annual Salary: $62,670
Foresters manage forests and woodlands, ensuring they are sustainably harvested and protected. These professionals play a major role in the basic industries, and they source raw materials for companies in the basic industries.
Most employers hold a bachelor’s degree in biology, environmental science, and other related fields. Some employers also hold on-job training for foresters to hone and improve their skills.
The job outlook for the Forester role is positive, with a growth rate of 3% over the next ten years. BLS projects it will produce 8,830 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
3. Mining Technicians
Average Annual Salary: $53,410
Mining Technician is a common career path in the Iron and Steel Industry. The mining industry requires skilled technicians to operate and maintain heavy equipment. These types of machinery are utilized for the extraction and processing of raw materials.
At least two years of college training are needed to be a mining technician. Some colleges and technical institutes offer an associate degree for this career path.
The job outlook for the petroleum Mining Technicians role is positive, with a growth rate of 4% over the next ten years. BLS projects it will produce 9,120 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
4. Heavy Equipment Operators
Average Annual Salary: $ 49,880
Heavy equipment operators are needed to operate large machineries, such as bulldozers, excavators, and cranes. They work in construction, mining, and forestry industries.
Most Heavy Equipment Operators hold a high school diploma or GED. They are also required to complete heavy equipment training.
The job outlook for the Heavy Equipment Operator role is positive, with a growth rate of 4% over the next ten years. BLS projects it will produce 425,470 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
Truck driving is a very common career path in the Basic industries. Truck drivers are needed to transport goods from mines, farms, and factories to distribution centers and retailers. The transportation industry is critical for moving raw materials and finished goods from one location to another.
Most companies require their truck drivers to have a high school diploma or equivalent. All long-haul truck drivers must have a commercial driver’s license (CDL).
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 2% increase in job growth for Truck Drivers. It will provide 3,515,610 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
6. Welders
Average Annual Salary: $45,190
Welders are skilled workers who use heat and electricity to join metal parts together. They are needed in industries such as manufacturing, construction, and mining.
Welders receive specialized training at vocational schools or community colleges. Some welders also participate in an apprenticeship or internship program.
The job outlook for the welder role is positive, with a growth rate of 3% over the next ten years. BLS projects it will produce 427,900 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
7. Machine Operators
Average Annual Salary: $38,690
Machine Operators are responsible for operating and maintaining machinery used in Production. These professionals play a critical role in factories and other manufacturing facilities.
Most Machine Operators hold at least a High School Diploma/GED. There must also possess problem-solving, computer, and mechanical skills.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 2% increase in job growth for Truck Drivers. It will provide 2,520,420 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
8. Production Workers
Average Annual Salary: $34,450
Production Workers are responsible for assembling, testing, and packaging products. They work in the manufacturing sector of the Basic industries.
You need a high school diploma to get a job as a Production Worker. Some employers, however, offer on-site job training to assemble and package products or use factory equipment.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 2% increase in job growth for Production Workers. It will provide 8,341,740 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
9. Fishermen
Average Annual Salary: $32,410
Fishermen are responsible for catching fish and other seafood. This is a common and available job in coastal communities.
There is no needed educational qualification for one to be a fisherman. Usually, most fishermen have passion and are enthusiastic about the profession.
The job outlook for the Fishermen role is positive, with a growth rate of 4% over the next ten years. BLS projects it will produce 29,090 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
This is one of the readily available and common jobs in the Basic industries. This is not the least surprising as agriculture is one of the largest Basic Industries. Moreso, there will always be a constant demand for workers to plant, cultivate, and harvest crops.
There is not much qualification needed to qualify as a farmworker. But most employers will prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 6% increase in job growth for Farmworkers. It will provide 853,300 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
Other jobs available in Basic Industries
Delivery Driver (Average Annual Salary: $32,020)
Agronomist (Average Annual Salary: $67,950)
Miner (Average Annual Salary: $63,500)
Steelworker (Average Annual Salary: $53,970)
Ironworker (Average Annual Salary: $53,970)
5 Most Common and Available Entry-Level Basic Industries Jobs
Even if you lack academic credentials and Experience, getting work in the basic sectors is simple. There are even some entry-level jobs in the iron and steel industry that be landed with some simple technical skills.
Below are some of the most common entry-level jobs in the iron and steel industry:
It is not surprising that this career path falls under entry-level jobs in the basic industries. Loggers are in charge of falling trees, logging them, skidding them, putting them into trucks, and transporting them.
Physical stamina and strength are mostly required for this job. Technology has, however, made this career path a lot easier. Professionals who have mastered the equipment used in this field have an edge over others.
2. Miner
Average Annual Salary: $44,000
A miner works both within and outside the mines, excavating and cutting caverns. Mining may be difficult and dangerous work, which is one of the reasons why becoming a miner is quite simple.
Just like loggers, miners who have mastered mining equipment used to thrive in this career path. Moreso, technology has made mining job safer than it was in the past.
3. Warehouse Worker
Average Annual Salary: $33,240)
Warehouse workers are responsible for handling, storing, and shipping products in a warehouse. The job involves loading and unloading goods, organizing inventory, and keeping track of stock levels.
This is probably the easiest job for entry-level candidates in the basic industries. This career requires minimal skills and education making it quite attractive for entry-level candidates.
4. Metal Fabricator
Average Annual Salary: $32,000
This is also another sought-after role in the iron and steel industry. Metal fabricators are those who cut metals into the desired forms. You can become a metal fabricator if you have a steady hand, excellent eyesight, and some knowledge of the equipment and metals.
Once you have gained mastery of metal fabricator equipment, this job is quite easy and straightforward. Moreso, it has little or no educational requirements.
Janitors are responsible for cleaning and maintaining buildings, including offices, schools, and hospitals. The job involves sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, and taking out the trash.
There are no strict educational requirements to land a job as a janitor. Some employers might, however, prefer candidates with GED.
What is the Job Description of a Basic industries Professional?
A Basic industries Professional’s work description might differ based on their unique function within the sector. Nonetheless, professionals in this field have some common duties
Here are some of the common job descriptions of basic industries professionals
1. Operating and maintaining equipment
Basic industries Professionals are in charge of operating and maintaining machinery, tools, and equipment used in manufacturing.
2. Fixing Troubleshooting Issues
Professionals in the iron and steel industry deal with heavy machinery and equipment frequently. Thus, they are expected to have basic knowledge in fixing some troubleshooting issues, equipment breakdowns, or quality control concerns.
3. Monitoring Production
Basic industries professionals monitor Production to ensure that it is running effectively and safely. They also look out for production areas that require improvement.
4. Adherence to safety procedures
Safety protocols are essential in the iron and steel industry. Basic industries professionals are required to adhere to safety protocols in order to prevent workplace mishaps and injuries.
Record keeping is also an essential aspect of the basic sector. Thus professionals in this field must keep accurate records of production data and maintenance schedules. Records of any incidents that occur during the production process must also be detailed down.
How to Get a Job in Basic Industries?
Landing a job in the basic industries can be quite easy and straightforward. The steps below itemize how to land a job in the iron and steel industry.
5 simple, actionable steps to get a job in basic industries
1. Acquire necessary education and training
Certain skills are required in basic industries, which may be achieved through education and training. Look into vocational schools, community colleges, and apprenticeship programs to learn these skills.
2. Gain Experience
The basic industries is a very practical one. Thus, to land the job of your dream in this sector, you need some relevant experience. The basic industries has room for internship and apprenticeship programs.
3. Network
This is generally required in any sector to land a good job. For the basic sector, you should consider joining the Association of Iron and Steel Technology to boost your chances of landing a job. You can also attend business events, communicate with people on social media platforms, and seek guidance to grow your network.
4. Apply for jobs
Search for and apply for job openings that match your qualifications. For instance, if you have your CDL certificate, you should consider applying for trucking driving jobs. You should also tailor your resume and cover letter to fit the job.
5. Prepare for interviews
To ace, your interview, start by researching the company and the position you are applying for. Also, rehearse probable interview questions.
How to get an entry-level job in basic industries?
There are thousands of entry-level roles in the Basic industries. Some of these roles do not require additional training or certifications.
Here are 5 simple actionable steps to get an entry-level job in basic industries
1. Update your resume
Most basic industries entry-level jobs are skill specific. Thus, you may want to update your resume to emphasize such required skills. Some skills basic industries employers look out for are manual labor, problem-solving, and teamwork skills.
2. Network
The importance of networking in the job-hunting process can never be overemphasized. Most jobs in the iron and steel industry are landed based on referrals. Start by talking to people who work in the industry, and from there, grow your network.
3. Consider apprenticeships or internships
As stated above, the iron and steel industry has enough room for apprenticeship and internship opportunities. While some of these roles are unpaid, you should be more interested in gaining practical knowledge and skills. Most often than not, these programs can also lead to full-time employment opportunities.
4. Apply for jobs
Once you have garnered at least 1-2 years of relevant Experience, it’s time to start applying for jobs.
5. Prepare for interviews
Entry-level roles are skilled-specific. So make sure you possess such skills.
Additional tips for finding available jobs in basic industries
Below are other tips that should help you in landing available jobs in the basic industries.
Research companies in your area:
Check job boards
Contact staffing agencies
Check company websites
Be proactive.
What are the Educational Requirements and Training for Basic Industries Jobs?
Even if millions of jobs are available, it won’t help you if you don’t have the necessary qualifications. Professionals with various types of qualifications are required in the iron and steel industry.
Education
Most entry-level jobs in Basic Industries usually require either education or training. Some management roles in this sector might also require a 4 years bachelor’s degree.
Here are the Educational requirements for getting a job in the basic industries
High School
A high school diploma or an equivalent educational level is required for all positions in the iron and steel industry. Moreso, most entry-level jobs in this sector can be landed with a GED.
Trade/Technical School
Employers prefer to recruit trade/technical school graduates for many skilled-based jobs in the basic industries. For instance, job positions like logger and miner require practical skills.
University Degrees
This is usually required for management roles in the iron and steel industry, like accountants and engineers. Employers may demand a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree, depending on the position.
Training and Certifications
There are a variety of training and certification programs available for individuals interested in basic industries jobs.
Some of the most common certifications and training programs include:
1. OSHA Training
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) offers a range of training courses for workers in different industries, including construction, manufacturing, and healthcare. These courses cover topics such as hazard recognition, emergency response, and workplace safety.
2. CDL Training
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training programs provide instruction on operating commercial vehicles such as trucks and buses. These programs typically include classroom instruction, hands-on training, and practice driving.
3. Welding Certification
Welding certification programs provide training in welding techniques and safety practices and can lead to certification in specific welding processes and materials.
4. Heavy Equipment Operator Training
Heavy equipment operator training programs provide instruction on operating heavy machineries such as bulldozers, excavators, and cranes.
5. HVAC Certification
HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) certification programs provide training in installing, maintaining, and repairing HVAC systems.
As stated above, there are over 24,504,000 available jobs in Basic Industries. Knowing the specific place to find these jobs will make your job-hunting process a lot easier.
5 basic industries-specific platforms you can land a job on:
1. Good Food Jobs
This platform has excellent listings for basic industries jobs such as logging, truck driving, and mining jobs. Most of the jobs listed on this platform pay over $15 per hour or more.
2. AgCareers.com
This employment board contains the great majority of agriculture jobs and agricultural career prospects. Jobs in food, natural resources, biotechnology, and iron steel can also be found on this platform.
This is one of the biggest online platforms for basic industries jobs. This platform also has jobs in forestry, wildlife, and natural resources.
4. Betterteam
This job board is a hiring platform that puts listings on hundreds of various job boards around the United States. It is one of the best platforms to land basic industries jobs in the US.
5. Careermine
This job board focuses on mining jobs and thus caters to miners in the basic industries. It’s a worldwide platform with thousands of jobs available in the United States.
What are the Skills Needed to Get a Job in Basic Industries?
The basic industries is practical; thus, workers in this field need to possess sufficient skill sets. Having some of these skills will help you stand out during the job selection process.
Top 5 essential skills you need to land a job in basic industries
1. Physical stamina
Jobs in the iron and steel industry frequently require physically hard work. Professionals in this sector must also be able to work long hours in tough weather conditions.
2. Technical skills
Most basic industries jobs require the operation of heavy machinery and equipment. Thus, professionals must have a fair grasp of welding, plumbing, and carpentry to thrive in this industry.
3. Problem-solving abilities
The ability to detect and solve problems in real time is vital in the iron sector. Employees in these areas must be able to swiftly diagnose and repair equipment and machinery.
4. Adaptability
Unpredictable situations and unanticipated obstacles are common in basic industries. Employees in these areas must be adaptive and capable of responding rapidly to changes.
5. Safety-consciousness skills
This skill is fundamental in the basic industries as safety is a primary emphasis. Workers must be aware of possible dangers and follow safety measures to avoid accidents and injuries.
What are the Factors Affecting the Availability of Jobs in Basic Industries?
The availability of jobs in the Basic industries is affected by many factors. Irrespective of these factors, there are still thousands of available roles in this field.
Here are some of the common factors affecting the availability of jobs in basic industries:
1. Economic conditions
The status of the economy has a considerable influence on the availability of basic industries employment. A robust economy with high levels of growth and investment can result in more work opportunities in this field.
2. Technology improvements
This can influence the availability of jobs in the iron and steel industry. Technology developments can boost efficiency and Production, resulting in fewer jobs in some industries.
3. Labor expenses
Labor costs can impact the availability of jobs in basic sectors. Businesses may be more tempted to automate certain tasks if labor costs are high. There’s also the possibility of moving their operations to other regions with lower labor costs.
4. Need for Sustainability
While the basic industries has brought economic benefits, it also has non-negligible impacts on the environment. The emphasis on sustainability by the government and environmentalists can affect jobs in this field.
5. Government policies
Government policies can impact the availability of jobs in basic industries. For example, changes in tax policy or trade agreements directly affect the availability of jobs in this sector.
Conclusion: How Many Jobs are Available in Basic Industries?
There are thousands of jobs in the basic industries with the most possibility for increment in job openings. Thus, if you are interested in pursuing a career in this sector, there are thousands of available jobs for you.
Frequently Asked Questions on How Many Jobs are Available in Basic Industries
What roles are available in basic industries?
Some available roles in the basic industries are miners, loggers, geoscientists, Metallurgists, and horticulturists. Your skill and educational requirements determine the right position for you.
Are there a lot of jobs in basic industries?
Yes, there are a lot of jobs in basic industries. Currently, there are over 24,504,000 available jobs in basic Industries.
Are basic industries’ jobs easy?
No, basic industries jobs are not so easy. Some of the jobs in this sector require physical strength and stamina.
What is the hardest basic industries job to get?
Forensic Scientist and Petroleum Geologist is the hardest job to get in basic industries. These roles have stringent requirements.
