Pursuing a career path in basic industries can provide many options for employment. The industries offer many benefits, like competitive pay and growth opportunities. Understanding what basic industries are and what they offer can help you better understand whether they’re a good career path option.
In this article, we discuss basic industries and the benefits of a career in a basic industry, and we offer a list of jobs to consider.
Are basic industries a good career path and why?
While “basic industries” refers to several different industries, the benefits are often similar among them. Here are some reasons why a career path in basic industries can be beneficial:
- Job Stability: Basic industries, such as agriculture, mining and energy production, are essential to the economy and are less susceptible to fluctuations in demand. This means that jobs in these industries can be more stable than in other sectors since raw materials are always necessary.
- High Earning Potential: Many senior positions in basic industries require specialized skills and technical knowledge, which can lead to high earning potential. For example, jobs in oil and gas, mining and forestry can offer higher salaries for employees who work up to management or other senior-level positions.
- Opportunities for Career Advancement: Basic industries offer a range of career opportunities, from entry-level positions to managerial roles. With experience and further education, employees can progress and take more challenging roles with greater responsibility and higher pay.
- Meaningful Work: Basic industries involve working with natural resources and raw materials, which can provide a sense of drive and connection to the environment. Many people find the work in these industries fulfilling and rewarding, as they’re contributing to the production of essential goods and services.
- Low Entry Barrier: Many basic industries have a low entry barrier, meaning they don’t require advanced education and training for entry-level positions. Many entry-level positions include general labor positions and can provide full-time income without a college education.
What are Basic Industries?
Basic industries, also known as primary industries, are those that involve the removal and production of raw materials and natural capitals from the environment. These industries typically involve activities such as farming, fishing, forestry, mining and oil and gas production. Basic industries are indispensable to the economy as they provide the raw materials required for the manufacture of goods and services in other industries. For example, the steel industry relies on iron ore and coal extracted from mines, while the agriculture industry relies on the production of crops and livestock for food production.
Here are some examples of industries you can potentially find employment:
Oil and gas
The oil and gas industry involves the exploration, extraction, refining and distribution of petroleum products and natural gas. Oil and gas is a global industry that is crucial for meeting the world’s energy needs. The industry is highly complex and involves many components, from exploration and production companies to transportation and distribution companies. Oil and gas are used for a wide range of purposes, including transportation, heating and cooling, electricity generation and the production of various products such as plastics, pharmaceuticals and fertilizers.
Agriculture
The agriculture industry involves the cultivation and production of crops. Livestock and other agricultural products for human consumption. Animal feed and other raw materials. It’s a fundamental industry that provides food and raw materials for various other industries, including the food and beverage industry, textile industry and biofuels industry. Agriculture is a highly diverse industry, with many different production methods and types of crops and livestock. There are thousands of career options in the industry, from entry-level labor to management and distribution.
Forestry
The forestry industry involves the cultivation, management and harvesting of trees and other forest products for a wide range of purposes. These include producing lumber and paper products, providing fuel and energy and preserving biodiversity and ecological services. The forestry industry is an essential component of many economies, providing employment opportunities in rural areas and contributing to regional development. The industry involves many different activities, including planting and managing trees, harvesting timber. Processing wood products and protecting forests from pests and diseases.
Job Outlook for Basic Industries
The job outlook for many basic industries. According to the BLS, is expected to decline or remain low for the next decade. For example, the BLS reports that agricultural labor positions may rise as little as 1% through 2031. Whereas other positions, like forest and conservation and logging, are in decline by as much as 4%. The low entry barrier and constant demand for raw materials are often prime contributors to the lack of positions in these industries.
Jobs in Basic Industries
Here are some jobs in basic industries to consider. For the most up-to-date salary information from Indeed, visit indeed.com/salaries.
1. Farm Hand
National Average Salary: $48,010 per year
Primary Duties: A farm hand is an agricultural worker who assists with the daily tasks involved in farming. They may be responsible for planting and harvesting crops, tending to livestock and maintaining farm equipment and facilities. Farm hands may also perform other duties as needed, such as cleaning barns, repairing fences and operating machinery.
2. Arborist
National Average Salary: $62,808 per year
Primary Duties: An arborist is a professional who specializes in the care and maintenance of trees. They’re responsible for inspecting trees for disease and damage, pruning branches and removing trees when necessary. Arborists also provide advice on tree care. Planting and landscaping to ensure the health and beauty of trees in urban and natural environments.
3. Miner
National Average Salary: $57,408 per year
Primary Duties: A miner is an individual who works in the mining industry, extracting minerals and metals from the earth. They’re responsible for operating machinery and equipment, drilling and blasting rock and removing ore from the ground. Miners also adhere to strict safety procedures to ensure the well-being of themselves and their colleagues.