Some of the most demanding jobs in the country are surgeon, chief executive officer, and judge. These positions pay well and require a lot of work hours.
Some jobs are so demanding that people who tolerate long hours can earn outsized salaries.
Long Haul Truckers
Not everyone can tolerate working in the truck industry. Over-the-road truck drivers have to face long days and weeks of traveling, as well as having to sleep in strange locations. Their health and diets are also affected.
Since truckers are allowed to work up to 14 hours per day, they can spend up to 70 hours working before taking a break. These drivers have a high risk of getting into a traffic accident, and according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, they typically earn less than $50,000 annually. The average truck driver still makes more than many workers in other industries.
Fire Fighters
It is a noble calling to become a firefighter. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for this job is around $52,500.
Members of a fire department live a unique lifestyle in performing their duties. They typically work 24-hour shifts and have to eat, sleep, and stay in their firehouses during their off days. Besides being physically fit, they must undergo special training and certification.
Water Transportation Workers
One of the world’s oldest and most demanding jobs is working in the shipping industry. Like truck drivers and firefighters, seamen have to live a unique lifestyle. They have to work long days and nights and travel far away from their families and friends.
Derrick Operators
This job involves working in harsh conditions, such as exposure to toxic chemicals and loud noise. It doesn’t require a college degree. It’s also one of the fastest-growing fields in the country, and it pays more than the average salary in all other industries. According to O*NET, almost everyone in the derrick industry works over 40 hours per week.
Corporate Exec.
If you’ve been in the corporate world for a long time, you might have thought you could get a high-level executive position. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for an executive is over $100,000 annually. However, this job requires a lot of responsibility and can be very demanding.
Sales Managers
Despite these jobs’ relatively low physical demands, sales managers still work hard. The Bureau of Labor Statistics also states that these professionals must work on weekends and evenings.