30 jobs that pay $30 an hour

 

Looking for a specific salary? We've got 30 examples of $30-an-hour jobs or more.

Nobody likes to be average. Not you. Not me. Not even your salary.

The national mean salary in the United States is $56,310 according to the National Compensation Survey. That works out to be $27 per hour. So in order to be above average, you have to earn more than $28 per hour. Why not be way above average and find a job that pays $30 more than the average hourly salary?

We compiled a list of 30 jobs that pay between $30 and $39 per hour, raking in a solid $62,400 to $81,120 annually. Take a look and see how your salary stacks up:

1. Purchasing agents and buyers, farm products, make purchases to get needed farm supplies at the best rates.
Hourly wage: $30.02
Annual salary: $62,450*

2. Multimedia artists & animators create special effects, animation or other visual images.
Hourly wage: $30.20
Annual salary: $62,810

3. Loan officers evaluate, authorize or recommend approval of commercial, real estate or credit loans.
Hourly wage: $30.39
Annual salary: $63,210

4. Arbitrators, mediators and conciliators help out with alternative resolutions to settle disputes outside of court. The processes are less formal than a court trial.
Hourly wage: $30.41
Annual salary: $63,250

5. Insurance underwriters review applications for insurance coverage and accept or decline them based on the degree of risk involved.
Hourly wage: $30.45
Annual salary: $63,330

6. Diagnostic medical sonographers perform ultrasounds that physicians order for patients.
Hourly wage: $30.60
Annual salary: $63,640

7. Film and video editors edit motion picture soundtracks, film and video.
Hourly wage: $30.62
Annual salary: $63,680

8. Food scientists analyze the composition and properties of food.
Hourly wage: $30.95
Annual salary: $64,370

9. Animal scientists study the life cycle and related biological issues of farm animals.
Hourly wage: $31.02
Annual salary: $64,510

10. Writers write material for scripts, magazines, books, websites and other publications.
Hourly pay: $31.04
Annual salary: $64,560

11. Urban and regional planners create plans to use land and physical facilities in towns, cities, counties and metropolitan areas.
Hourly wage: $31.10
Annual salary: $64,680

12. Landscape architects plan and design areas for landscaping projects.
Hourly wage: $31.69
Annual salary: $65,910

13. Accountants give financial advice based on accounting records.
Hourly wage: $32.42
Annual salary: $71,500

14. Market research analysts estimate the business potential for an organization's marketing and promotional efforts based on research they conduct in different markets.
Hourly wage: $32.45
Annual salary: $93,000

15. Dental hygienists clean teeth and examine a patient's mouth, head and neck for signs of oral disease.
Hourly wage: $32.63
Annual salary: $67,860

16. Speech-language pathologists help individuals who have trouble speaking as a result of hearing loss, physical conditions or language barriers.
Hourly wage: $32.86
Annual salary: $75,000

17. Nuclear medicine technologists work with radioactive materials and equipment used in nuclear medicine procedures.
Hourly wage: $32.91
Annual salary: $80,500

18. Budget analysts examine budget estimates and analyze budgeting and accounting reports to ensure controlled spending.
Hourly wage: $33.29
Annual salary: $98,000

19. Occupational therapists develop rehabilitative programs to help disabled people gain independence.
Hourly wage: $33.98
Annual salary: $75,680

20. Geographers study the Earth and its land, features, inhabitants and phenomena.
Hourly wage: $34.33
Annual salary: $71,420

21. School psychologists diagnose and treat mental disorders; learning disabilities; and cognitive, behavioral and emotional problems.
Hourly wage: $34.77
Annual salary: $72,310

22. Fashion designers create clothing and accessories, from shoes to clothes to jewelry and more.
Hourly wage: $35.78
Annual salary: $74,410

23. Operations research analysts study management and operations issues through engineering and other scientific methods.
Hourly wage: $36.23
Annual salary: $90,000

24. Sociologists study human society and social behavior.
Hourly wage: $36.63
Annual salary: $76,190

25. Physical therapists develop rehabilitative programs that improve patients' health.
Hourly wage: $36.64
Annual salary: $76,220

26. Architects design buildings, homes and other structures for various clients.
Hourly wage: $37.93
Annual salary: $78,880

27. Education administrators manage the everyday operations of educational facilities.
Hourly wage: $38.53
Annual salary: $80,140

28. Environmental engineers study environmental problems and create solutions that governments and the general population can put into practice.
Hourly wage: $38.82
Annual salary: $80,750

29. Civil engineers design and oversee the construction of large-scale public works, such as bridges, dams and airports.
Hourly wage: $39.03
Annual salary: $81,180

30. Materials scientists research and study the structures and chemical properties of various natural and manmade materials.
Hourly wage: $39.59
Annual salary: $82,350

*Salary information based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

25 jobs that pay $25 an hour

 

If you have a specific paycheck in mind, check out these 25 jobs that pay $25 an hour.

These 25 jobs, all of which are projected to grow over the next five years according to BLS, pay (about) $25 an hour. At 40 hours per week, 52 weeks per year, you're looking around $52,000 per year - not bad, considering that several of these don't necessarily require a college degree.

1. Substance abuse, behavioral disorder and mental health counselors advise people who suffer from alcoholism, drug addiction, eating disorders, mental health issues or other mental or behavioral problems. They provide treatment and support to help clients recover from addiction or modify problem behaviors.

Average hourly pay: $23.75
Number of jobs in 2019: 318,095
2019-2024 projected job growth: 11%

2. Athletic trainers specialize in preventing, diagnosing and treating muscle and bone injuries and illnesses.

Average hourly pay: $24.12
Number of jobs in 2019: 31,452
2019-2024 projected job growth: 11%

3. Self-enrichment education teachers instruct courses other than those that normally lead to an occupational objective or degree. Courses may include self-improvement, non-vocational and nonacademic subjects.

Average hourly pay: $24.37
Number of jobs in 2019: 407,177
2019-2024 projected job growth: 9%

4. Heating, air conditioning and refrigeration mechanics and installers work on heating, ventilation, cooling and refrigeration systems that control the temperature and air quality in buildings.

Average hourly pay: $24.03
Number of jobs in 2019: 380,050
2019-2024 projected job growth: 8%

5. Audio and video equipment technicians set up and operate audio and video equipment. They also connect wires and cables and set up and operate sound and mixing boards and related electronic equipment.

Average hourly pay: $23.77
Number of jobs in 2019: 106,216
2019-2024 projected job growth: 7%

6. Child, family and school social workers protect vulnerable children and help families in need of assistance. They help families find housing or services, such as childcare, or apply for benefits, such as food stamps. They intervene when children are in danger of neglect or abuse. Some help arrange adoptions, locate foster families, or work to reunite families.

Average hourly pay: $24.03
Number of jobs in 2019: 350,458
2019-2024 projected job growth: 7%

7. Meeting, convention and event planners coordinate all aspects of events and professional meetings. They arrange meeting locations, transportation and other details.

Average hourly pay: $26.02
Number of jobs in 2019: 135,570
2019-2024 projected job growth: 7%

8. Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians collect samples and perform tests to analyze body fluids, tissue and other substances.

Average hourly pay: $25.93
Number of jobs in 2019: 335,894
2019-2024 projected job growth: 7%

9. Operating engineers and other construction equipment operators work with one or several types of power construction equipment.

Average hourly pay: $25.52
Number of jobs in 2019: 412,986
2019-2024 projected job growth: 7%

10. Environmental science and protection technicians monitor the environment and investigate sources of pollution and contamination, including those affecting public health.

Average hourly pay: $24.49
Number of jobs in 2019: 37,024
2019-2024 projected job growth: 7%

11. Surgical technologists assist with operations. They prepare operating rooms, arrange equipment and help doctors during surgeries.

Average hourly pay: $23.76
Number of jobs in 2019: 114,860
2019-2024 projected job growth: 7%

12. Credit counselors advise and educate individuals or organizations on acquiring and managing debt. They may provide guidance in determining the best type of loan and explaining loan requirements or restrictions.

Average hourly pay: $23.98
Number of jobs in 2019: 39,123
2019-2024 projected job growth: 6%

13. Chefs and head cooks oversee the daily food preparation at restaurants and other places where food is served. They direct kitchen staff and handle any food-related concerns.

Average hourly pay: $24.13
Number of jobs in 2019: 152,630
2019-2024 projected job growth: 6%

14. Paralegals and legal assistants perform a variety of tasks to support lawyers, including maintaining and organizing files, conducting legal research and drafting documents.

Average hourly pay: $26.32
Number of jobs in 2019: 330,917
2019-2024 projected job growth: 6%

15. Sheet metal workers fabricate or install products that are made from thin metal sheets, such as ducts used in heating and air conditioning systems.

Average hourly pay: $25.14
Number of jobs in 2019: 146,303
2019-2024 projected job growth: 6%

16. Industrial machinery mechanics keep machines in working order by detecting and correcting errors before the machine or the products it produces are damaged.

Average hourly pay: $25.94
Number of jobs in 2019: 379,596
2019-2024 projected job growth: 5%

17. Preschool and childcare center/program education administrators supervise and lead staffs, design program plans, oversee daily activities and prepare budgets. They are responsible for all aspects of their center’s program.

Average hourly pay: $24.74
Number of jobs in 2019: 70,513
2019-2024 projected job growth: 5%

18. Production, planning and expediting clerks manage the flow of information, work and materials within or among offices in a business.

Average hourly pay: $24.06
Number of jobs in 2019: 377,120
2019-2024 projected job growth: 5%

19. Medical equipment repairers install, maintain and repair patient care equipment.

Average hourly pay: $25.35
Number of jobs in 2019: 50,238
2019-2024 projected job growth: 5%

20. Food service managers are responsible for the daily operation of restaurants or other establishments that prepare and serve food and beverages.

Average hourly pay: $25.71
Number of jobs in 2019: 305,111
2019-2024 projected job growth: 5%

21. Mobile heavy equipment mechanics repair and maintain construction and surface mining equipment, such as bulldozers, cranes, graders and excavators. Most work for governments, equipment rental and leasing shops, and large construction and mining companies.

Average hourly pay: $25.42
Number of jobs in 2019: 159,923
2019-2024 projected job growth: 5%

22. Civil engineering technicians help civil engineers to plan, design and build highways, bridges, utilities and other infrastructure projects.

Average hourly pay: $26.29
Number of jobs in 2019: 76,815
2019-2024 projected job growth: 4%

23. Traffic technicians conduct field studies to determine traffic volume, speed, effectiveness of signals, adequacy of lighting and other factors influencing traffic conditions.

Average hourly pay: $24.38
Number of jobs in 2019: 10,247
2019-2024 projected job growth: 4%

24. Firefighters control and put out fires and respond to emergencies where life, property or the environment is at risk.

Average hourly pay: $25.60
Number of jobs in 2019: 331,574
2019-2024 projected job growth: 4%

25. Aircraft cargo handling supervisors coordinate the activities of ground crew in the loading, unloading, securing and staging of aircraft cargo or baggage.Average hourly pay: $26.47
Number of jobs in 2019: 10,494
2019-2024 projected job growth: 4%

Tips for a Successful Internship Interview

Feel more confident in your internship interview by following these key tips.

By Hallie Crawford

What comes to your mind when you think about an internship? Many may think of internships as something only recent college graduates pursue, but that isn't always the case. It can also be a great way for someone making a career transition to get their feet wet in a new industry. Even more so in today's economic climate, an internship can be a great opportunity to learn new skills, make networking connections and boost your overall career game.

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If you have determined that you would like to land an internship, how can you ensure you make a great impression and conduct a successful interview? Any interview process can be stressful, so here are some helpful tips to help you prepare for an internship interview.

How to Prepare Before the Interview

Avoid falling into the trap of thinking that this interview is less important since it's for an internship as opposed to a full-time job. Instead, you should treat it like any other job interview. You want to do your due diligence and make sure that you are well prepared.

• Research the company. Take some time to explore their website and LinkedIn page to understand what the company is accomplishing and how you can contribute to that goal.
• Look up the interviewer. Do you know who will be conducting the interview? Look them up on LinkedIn and on the company website, and try finding something you admire about them or something you have in common. While you don't want to give the impression that you are stalking them online, you can compliment them for a recent accomplishment.
• Get all the details in advance. Will this be a phone, Zoom or in-person interview? What materials does the employer need in advance?
• Dress for the job you want. Err on the side of dressing more professionally, even though it's for an interview that may be through videoconference. Put your best foot forward.
• Decide what you want out of the internship. Write down the top three things you want to gain from this experience and the top three things you want the employer to gain from your time there. Having and knowing the purpose for wanting the internship will help you express yourself more clearly to the employer. It will also help you avoid frustration if you are not hired for a job after the internship.
• Make sure you have a financial plan. To avoid undue stress, make sure you have a good financial plan in place if you accept an unpaid internship. This will help you feel excited about your internship and ensure good work performance.

[ 

READ: 

How to Make the Most of Your College Career Center. ]

Common Questions to Expect and Sample Answers

Internship interview questions are much like any other job interview questions. Here are some common questions you may be asked along with possible ways to answer.

• What do you hope to gain from this internship? You will want to talk about the purpose that you defined in your preparation for the interview. For example: "I am excited about the opportunity to work with a team and hone my problem-solving skills. I also look forward to contributing to the success of the company with my strong work ethic."
• Why do you want to work in this industry? While this question seems similar to the above, the employer wants to know why you chose this industry as opposed to another one. For example: "I am in the process of making a career transition to this industry, and I would love the opportunity to see if this is a good fit for me long-term."
• Tell us a little bit about yourself. While this is a seemingly casual question, you want to be strategic about your answer. Be honest, but aim to speak to a professional accomplishment as well as something personal about yourself, such as a hobby. For example: "I majored in business management and have helped several firms implement an updated leadership program. I also love to travel in my spare time; my favorite place is X."
• What are your strengths and weaknesses? For this question, the employer wants to know if you are honest about yourself and aware of things you need to work on. However, try to spin your weakness in a positive way. For example: "I am punctual and have a strong work ethic. Sometimes I struggle with deadlines, but I am working on that by setting periodic reminders for myself on my phone to keep myself on track."

Questions to Ask the Interviewer

It's important to ask questions so you know how this internship can help you with your long-term career goals. Again, an internship can be a great opportunity for your career, but you want to be strategic about your choice. You want to ask good questions to make sure it will align with your goals and be a good fit for you. For example:

• Is a full-time position at this company a possibility after the internship?
• What would I have to achieve to get a full-time job at this company?
• What do you expect an intern to accomplish in the first 30 and 60 days of the internship?

Overall Tips for a Successful Interview

There are some general internship interview tips to keep in mind to feel confident about your interview:

• Familiarize yourself with the industry. Especially if you are wanting to intern in a field that is new to you, it's important to learn the basics and how your previous experience translates to that industry. You don't have to know everything, but using any industry-specific language or mentioning some recent news can show the interviewer that you have done your homework.
• Practice your interview. Interviewing can be nerve-wracking, so practicing your interview answers with someone else, such as a friend or career coach, can help you feel more confident and at ease. If you are unable to practice with someone else, record yourself and watch the playback to see how you come across.
• Arrive early for your interview. Whether your interview is virtual or in-person, arriving early will help you feel more relaxed. Make sure to account for driving time and parking if your interview is in-person, and have a backup plan for your internet if your interview is virtual.
• Dress professionally. While dress codes vary by industry, dress professionally for any kind of interview, even for an internship. This will help give a good first impression and show you are serious about the opportunity. If your interview is virtual, you should still be fully dressed and pay careful attention to what the interviewer can see in your background.
• Pay attention to your posture. Avoid slouching or looking at the floor during your interview. Sitting up straight and appropriate eye contact with the interviewer transmits confidence. Don't forget to smile!
• Take extra copies of your materials. It's always good to be prepared with a few extra copies of your resume and other marketing materials in case there are additional interviewers or something happens to the document.
• Don't be afraid to ask for clarification. Sometimes you may not understand what the interviewer has asked you. Perhaps there was a lag in the audio on your virtual interview or you just aren't sure what direction the interviewer wants you to go with your answer. It's OK to ask for clarification before answering.
• Take a notebook. You may want to reference some notes or even write down certain details the interviewer mentions during your interview. Having a notebook on hand shows your attention to detail.
• Close the loop. Make sure that you know what you need to do after the interview. Who do you need to follow up with? What paperwork do you need to fill out? Don't leave the interview with any looming questions.
• Thank the interviewer. No matter how the interview goes, make sure to thank the interviewer for their time. This shows true professionalism.