20 Jobs in Tennessee That Pay Decently But Are Often Overlooked

In the Volunteer State, there are numerous employment opportunities that provide a decent living wage, yet many people overlook them due to misconceptions or stigmas. These roles, often considered "too good for," can offer stability, growth, and satisfaction. Here are 20 such jobs in Tennessee that are worth reconsidering:

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1. HVAC Technicians

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) technicians are essential in maintaining comfortable indoor climates. With the increasing demand for energy-efficient systems, HVAC technicians in Tennessee can earn a respectable income, often exceeding $50,000 annually. Despite this, many perceive the job as too physically demanding or "blue-collar."

2. Truck Drivers

Truck driving is a crucial job for maintaining the supply chain. In Tennessee, experienced truck drivers can make upwards of $60,000 per year. However, the lifestyle of being on the road and the perception of it being a low-prestige job deter many from pursuing this career.

3. Plumbers

Plumbers are always in demand, especially in growing areas. They can earn a substantial income, often more than $55,000 annually. The trade requires expertise and certification, but the misconception of it being "dirty work" prevents many from entering the field.

4. Electricians

Skilled electricians are vital for both residential and commercial buildings. In Tennessee, electricians can earn a good living, with salaries often exceeding $60,000. Despite the good pay and job security, the physical nature of the work can be a deterrent.

5. Welders

Welding is a skilled trade with opportunities in manufacturing, construction, and even artistic fields. Welders in Tennessee can earn competitive wages, often around $45,000 to $60,000. The perception of welding as dangerous or physically taxing keeps some away.

6. Construction Managers

Overseeing construction projects, managing teams, and ensuring timely completion, construction managers in Tennessee can earn well over $80,000 annually. The job's demanding nature and the stigma of it being a "dirty job" can make it less appealing.

7. Auto Mechanics

With the complexity of modern vehicles, skilled auto mechanics are in high demand. Tennessee mechanics can earn a solid income, often around $40,000 to $60,000. However, many view the work as less prestigious compared to white-collar jobs.

8. Heavy Equipment Operators

Operating machinery such as bulldozers and excavators, heavy equipment operators are crucial for construction and mining industries. In Tennessee, they can earn between $40,000 and $65,000 annually. The job's physical demands and perceived roughness deter some from pursuing it.

9. Farm Managers

Agriculture is a significant industry in Tennessee. Farm managers oversee operations, from crop production to livestock care, and can earn a decent income, often exceeding $50,000. The rural lifestyle and hard work involved may not appeal to everyone.

10. Industrial Machine Mechanics

Maintaining and repairing industrial machinery, these mechanics ensure that factories and plants run smoothly. In Tennessee, they can earn around $50,000 annually. The technical nature and the perceived monotony of the job may dissuade some.

11. Roofers

Roofers install and repair roofs, a job that is always in demand, especially in areas prone to weather extremes. In Tennessee, roofers can earn a good living, often around $40,000 to $55,000. The job's physical demands and safety risks can be off-putting.

12. Landscapers

Landscapers design and maintain outdoor spaces, enhancing the beauty of residential and commercial properties. In Tennessee, experienced landscapers can make a respectable income, often around $35,000 to $50,000. The seasonal nature of the work and its physical demands can deter some.

13. Waste Management Workers

Working in waste collection and disposal, these workers ensure communities stay clean and sanitary. They can earn a decent wage, often around $35,000 to $50,000. The job's stigma and perceived lack of prestige may lead to it being overlooked.

14. Maintenance Workers

Maintenance workers are essential for keeping buildings and facilities operational. In Tennessee, they can earn between $35,000 and $50,000 annually. The variety of tasks and the job's physical nature can be unappealing to some.

15. Glaziers

Glaziers specialize in installing glass in windows, skylights, and other fixtures. In Tennessee, they can earn a good income, often around $40,000 to $55,000. The specialized skill set required and the physical demands may make this job less attractive to some.

16. Line Workers (Utility)

Line workers maintain and repair the electrical grid, ensuring a reliable power supply. In Tennessee, they can earn substantial wages, often exceeding $70,000. The job's dangers and the demanding nature of the work can be a deterrent.

17. Bakers and Pastry Chefs

Creating baked goods and pastries, these culinary professionals can earn a decent income, often around $30,000 to $45,000. The early hours and physical demands can make the job less appealing.

18. Butchers and Meat Cutters

Butchers and meat cutters prepare meat products for sale. In Tennessee, they can earn a respectable income, often around $30,000 to $45,000. The job's perceived lack of prestige and physical demands can deter some.

19. Pest Control Workers

Pest control workers help manage and eliminate pests in residential and commercial properties. They can earn a decent wage, often around $35,000 to $50,000. The nature of the work and the job's stigma can be off-putting.

20. Home Health Aides

Providing care for the elderly and disabled, home health aides are in high demand. In Tennessee, they can earn a decent income, often around $25,000 to $35,000. The emotional and physical demands of the job, along with low perceived prestige, can be deterrents.

These jobs, while often overlooked, offer stability, decent pay, and the potential for growth. They are critical to Tennessee's economy and provide essential services to communities across the state. It's time to reconsider these roles and recognize the value they bring to society.

If you're interested in starting a career in one of the overlooked but decent-paying jobs in Tennessee, here are some key places and resources to help you get started:

1. Local Trade Schools and Community Colleges

Many of these jobs require specialized training or certification. Local trade schools and community colleges offer programs in fields such as HVAC, plumbing, electrical work, and welding. For example:

• Nashville State Community College
• Southwest Tennessee Community College
• Pellissippi State Community College

2. Online Job Boards and Career Websites

Job boards like Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn often list opportunities for roles like truck drivers, auto mechanics, and construction managers. These platforms can help you find job openings and provide insights into the requirements and salary expectations.

3. Apprenticeship Programs

Many skilled trades, such as electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians, offer apprenticeship programs. These programs provide hands-on experience and often lead to certification. Check out:

• Tennessee Electrical Training Alliance
• Tennessee Plumbing and Mechanical Contractors Association

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