Not every well-paying job in the US requires a degree or specialized skills. Immigrants seeking work can find lucrative opportunities in various industries that prioritize dedication, reliability, and hard work. Here are some high-paying unskilled jobs for immigrants in the US:
- Delivery Driver
Average Salary: $35,000 – $65,000 per year
Why It’s High-Paying: With the rise of e-commerce, delivery drivers are in high demand, and many companies offer competitive pay.
How to Get Started:- Obtain a valid driver’s license.
- Apply to companies like Amazon, FedEx, or local courier services.
- Consider working for gig economy apps like Uber Eats or DoorDash.
- Warehouse Worker
Average Salary: $30,000 – $50,000 per year
Why It’s High-Paying: Warehouses require laborers to manage inventory and fulfill orders, and overtime pay significantly boosts earnings.
How to Get Started:- Apply to large retailers like Walmart, Target, or Amazon.
- Be prepared for physical labor and shift work.
- Construction Laborer
Average Salary: $35,000 – $55,000 per year
Why It’s High-Paying: The construction industry offers steady work with opportunities for raises and promotions based on performance.
How to Get Started:- Look for job openings at construction firms or through labor unions.
- Gain experience on-site to advance to higher-paying roles.
- Janitorial Worker
Average Salary: $25,000 – $40,000 per year
Why It’s High-Paying: Many janitorial positions offer benefits and opportunities for overtime pay.
How to Get Started:- Apply to cleaning companies or directly to schools, hospitals, and office buildings.
- Consider specialized cleaning roles, such as industrial cleaning, which often pay more.
- Farm Worker
Average Salary: $25,000 – $40,000 per year
Why It’s High-Paying: Seasonal farm work often comes with housing and other benefits, making it a viable option for immigrants.
How to Get Started:- Search for opportunities through agricultural associations or local farms.
- Be prepared for physically demanding tasks and long hours during harvest seasons.
- Dog Walker
Average Salary: $20,000 – $40,000 per year (part-time or full-time)
Why It’s High-Paying: Dog walking pays well in urban areas, where pet owners are willing to pay a premium for reliable care.
How to Get Started:- Advertise your services locally or join platforms like Rover or Wag.
- Build a strong reputation by being punctual, caring, and trustworthy.
- Housekeeper
Average Salary: $25,000 – $45,000 per year
Why It’s High-Paying: Many families and businesses are willing to pay well for reliable housekeeping services.
How to Get Started:- Apply to cleaning agencies or offer your services independently.
- Focus on areas like hospitality (hotels and resorts) for higher wages.
- Retail Sales Associate
Average Salary: $25,000 – $40,000 per year
Why It’s High-Paying: Retail jobs often provide steady income, benefits, and opportunities for bonuses.
How to Get Started:- Apply to stores like Walmart, Target, or local retailers.
- Develop customer service skills to stand out and earn promotions.
- Mover
Average Salary: $30,000 – $45,000 per year
Why It’s High-Paying: Movers often receive tips in addition to their base pay, especially for large jobs.
How to Get Started:- Apply to moving companies or offer freelance moving services.
- Be prepared for physically demanding work that requires teamwork.
- Security Guard
Average Salary: $30,000 – $50,000 per year
Why It’s High-Paying: Security guards are in demand for businesses, events, and residential communities.
How to Get Started:- Obtain any necessary state licenses or certifications.
- Apply to security firms or directly to businesses.
- Rideshare Driver (Uber, Lyft, etc.)
Average Salary: $30,000 – $60,000 per year (varies with hours worked)
Why It’s High-Paying: Rideshare drivers can earn a flexible income, often with the potential for tips. In larger cities, rideshare drivers can make significant earnings, especially during peak hours.
How to Get Started:- Sign up to drive for rideshare companies like Uber or Lyft.
- Ensure you have a reliable car and meet the company’s vehicle requirements.
- Work during busy times (like weekends or holidays) to maximize earnings.
General Tips for Immigrants Seeking Unskilled Jobs
- Leverage Your Network: Let friends, family, and community members know you’re looking for work.
- Be Open to Entry-Level Roles: Many unskilled jobs offer opportunities for advancement.
- Consider Gig Economy Work: Platforms like Uber, Lyft, TaskRabbit, and Instacart can provide flexible earning options.
- Learn Basic English: Even unskilled jobs often require basic communication skills.
- Highlight Your Reliability: Employers value punctuality, dedication, and a strong work ethic.
By pursuing these unskilled yet high-paying roles, immigrants in the US can achieve financial stability and build a promising future. Many of these positions offer pathways to higher-paying opportunities, making them an excellent starting point for those new to the workforce.