While being a Hollywood actor in California, an investment banker in New York, or an outdoor adventure guide in Colorado may top the list of America’s most coveted careers, we often overlook the jobs that people least aspire to.
What are the professions that, despite offering financial stability, few would willingly choose? This is the question TRADESAFE sought to answer as they aimed to identify the least desirable jobs across America, with a particular emphasis on job safety.
They posed a hypothetical question to 3,000 respondents:
Would you switch careers if your salary were doubled, even if it meant taking on a notoriously dangerous job?
The survey revealed some interesting results, which were broken down by state. Among New Yorkers, the job they would least be willing to do, even if offered double the salary, was that of a skyscraper window cleaner.
#1 Skyscraper Window Cleaner:
Cleaning the windows of skyscrapers is one of the most hazardous jobs in New York. Cleaning the windows of skyscrapers requires working at great heights, often with minimal safety equipment. The sheer height and exposure to the elements make this job incredibly risky. A strong gust of wind or a small mistake can have fatal consequences, which is why it’s a career most would prefer to avoid.
Here are some of the other least desired careers among New Yorkers:
#2 Commercial Fisherman:
Fishermen face extreme weather conditions, the risk of drowning, and long hours at sea, often with minimal rest. The physical demands of the job, combined with the constant threat of life-threatening situations, make this a career many would avoid, even for double the pay.
#3 Meatpacker:
While the industry provides essential services, meatpacking is often associated with high physical demands, long hours, and repetitive tasks in cold environments. The work is labor-intensive, and the risk of injury is significant, with workers facing potential hazards from sharp tools, heavy machinery, and exposure to harmful substances. Additionally, the psychological toll of working in such conditions, coupled with the monotony, contributes to the low appeal of this career.
#4 Roofer:
Roofing is a physically demanding job that involves working at heights, often in extreme weather conditions. The risk of falling and physical exhaustion makes roofing a challenging and dangerous occupation. Despite being essential to the construction industry, it’s a job that many are hesitant to pursue.
#5 Steel Worker:
Steelworkers are involved in constructing and maintaining buildings, bridges, and other large structures. The job often involves working at high elevations, handling heavy materials, and operating dangerous machinery. The risk of injury from falls, burns, and equipment accidents is high, making this a less-than-desirable career choice.
#6 Power Line Worker:
Power line workers maintain and repair electrical lines, often working high above the ground. The job is dangerous due to the risk of electrocution, falls, and exposure to harsh weather conditions. The physical demands and the ever-present danger make this a job that many would rather avoid.
#7 Electrician:
While being an electrician can be a rewarding career, it comes with significant risks, including the danger of electrocution and burns. Electricians often work in cramped spaces, on ladders, and with high-voltage systems, making the job both physically demanding and hazardous.
Infographic showing the least desired jobs across the country
Why Do People Take On Dangerous Jobs?
The survey revealed that the primary reason people take on dangerous jobs is the promise of high pay, with 71% of respondents citing this as their main motivation. This far outweighs other factors such as thrill and adventure (11%), family tradition or pressure (5%), or lack of awareness of the risks (4%). Interestingly, only 8% cited a lack of other job opportunities, highlighting that financial incentives are the predominant driver behind these career choices.
However, even with the lure of a bigger paycheck, respondents were clear about what would make them avoid these jobs. A significant 55% pointed to the fear of injury or death as the most compelling reason to steer clear. Other concerns included work-life balance (11%), long-term health risks (13%), high stress levels (15%), and lack of job satisfaction (6%).
What Would It Take to Accept a Dangerous Job?
When asked how much more they would need to be paid to consider a dangerous job, respondents, on average, indicated they would require a 120% increase in their current salary. Yet, even with such a substantial pay raise, many respondents would only consider the job if it came with significant benefits. The most appealing incentives included significant retirement benefits (24%), shorter work hours or more vacation time (22%), and comprehensive health and life insurance (19%).
Perceptions of Workers in Dangerous Jobs
Interestingly, public perception of those who take on these challenging roles is varied. While 42% of respondents view these workers as brave and hardworking, 25% see them as highly skilled and specialized.
On the flip side, 9% consider them reckless or unnecessarily risk-taking, and 11% believe they are primarily financially motivated. Nonetheless, 13% of respondents admire the commitment of these workers to their job or community.
“It’s no surprise that safety concerns heavily influence career choices, even when the financial incentives are significant,” says Herbert Post of TRADESAFE. “This study not only shines a light on the dangers associated with these careers but also underscores the importance of improving safety standards and working conditions for those in these essential roles.”
