01. Drywall Finisher
Hourly pay: $17.99 - $30.41
Are you up for some careful work and plenty of physical activity? In this gig you prepare walls for painting by taping and finishing joints and imperfections. Though this construction trade can drop off when the economy suffers, it's a job skill that is lucrative when in demand. No degree is required to get started. Most dry wall finishers learn their skills through informal training programs or on the job, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
02. Structural Drafter
Hourly pay: $18.52 - $23.66
Drafting work gets you into the fields of architecture and engineering, without all of the required coursework. Structural drafters prepare architectural and structural drawings, often using Computer Aided Design and Drafting (CADD) systems. They can develop specialized knowledge in specific materials, such as concrete or masonry, or in types of buildings, such as residential or commercial. Most employers look for applicants with at least a two-year degree. Armed Forces training can also prepare you for this job.
03. Carpet Installer
Hourly pay: $15.00 - $19.44
Here is another construction job that can be scarce in a down economy, but not as much as you'd think. It has the advantage of being a common, low-cost home improvement. According to the BLS, 35 percent of carpet installers are self-employed. You may work evenings and weekends for commercial jobs to avoid disturbing customers. Most installers learn their skills on the job. No formal education is required.
04. Fire Inspector
Hourly pay: $18.97 - $22.24
If you have an eye for detail and are willing to enforce the rules, you could find work as a fire inspector. Inspectors not only examine buildings to detect hazards and enforce local laws, they sometimes also investigate and gather facts to determine cause of fires and explosions. Most fire inspectors are employed by local governments, with the state of California paying best for their work, according to the BLS. Fire inspectors must take classes and pass exams to be certified in their profession.
05. Facilities Manager
Hourly pay: $19.68 - $22.27
The person in this job must be able to do a wide variety of tasks, all meant to ensure the care and upkeep of a property. These tasks can include scheduling janitors and landscapers, renting out spaces, collecting rent money, ensuring pools are cleaned and that users of the property follow regulations. Though facilities managers often have an office, they likely don't spend much time at their desk. No college degree is required, though some schooling may be preferred by employers if accounting or business transactions are required.
06. Tax Accountant
Hourly pay: $20.80 - $30.52
Don't want to go to the office every day? This job offers the potential for flexibility and a work-from-home arrangement. Tax accountants fall into a larger category of workers called public accountants. This person can either advise a business on the tax advantages and disadvantages of a decision, or complete individual tax returns. Many tax accountants have at least a bachelor's degree in an accounting-related field. Going on to get certified as an accountant can increase both your salary and your opportunities for employment.
07. Sheriff's Patrol Officer
Hourly pay: $20.64 - $31.07
If you can not only stay calm in a dangerous situation, but are willing to take on a leadership role, a career in law enforcement may suit you. You get you a secure, steady paycheck and opportunities for career growth. Sheriff's patrol officers work for local, county governments. Applicants must have at least a high school education, and some departments may prefer or require college coursework. Being bilingual or having military police experience will increase your chances of getting this job.
08. Music Therapist
Hourly pay: $18.67 - $25.56
Can Bach and Mozart help with mental health issues or healing from surgery? A music therapist uses tones, sounds, rhythms and songs of all kinds to help people heal whatever is ailing them. Sometimes their patients play music or other times they simply listen. To work as part of a medical team, music therapists usually need a bachelor's degree in a related field. Licensure may not be required, but is often preferred by employers.
09. Interpretor or Translator
Hourly pay: $22.38 - $44.99
As an interpreter, you could be a key player in the middle of court hearings or a complex discussion on medical issues. It is a role where you can help others and it offers opportunities for further career growth. The BLS predicts that this line of work will see an increase in demand over the coming years. And, you can create a flexible schedule for yourself since the majority of interpreters are self-employed. Certification in certain subject area is often required, as well as extra education beyond high school.
10. Personal Trainer
Hourly pay: $20.08 - $27.55
If you've watched the show "The Biggest Loser," you know a lot about the work done personal trainers. Unlike aerobics instructors or sports coaches, personal trainers offer customized, one-on-one physical training for their clients. They can help clients not only lose weight, but also develop specific strength training routines, eating schedules and routines for injury prevention. The job also offers the possibility of a flexible schedule.
