Because white-collar jobs have a higher barrier to entry, in terms of education, and earn an annual ... [+]
“Blue-collar” and “white-collar” jobs are two distinct classifications of employment that differ in terms of the type of labor involved, the work setting and the level of education required.
Blue-collar jobs tend to entail manual labor and working with hands and tools, while white-collar jobs comprise office, administrative and managerial work. Blue-collar work generally occurs in factories, warehouses, outdoors, construction sites and people’s homes, while white-collar workers are stationed at a desk.
The term “blue collar” was first coined in the early 20th century when laborers donned durable fabrics, like blue denim or chambray. The dark color would help disguise the dirt and grease, which were a part of their job.
The term “white collar,” popularized by American novelist Upton Sinclair in the 1930s, refers to the crisp, button-down, white shirts that are worn by business professionals.
Because white-collar jobs have a higher barrier to entry, in terms of education, and earn an annual salary rather than an hourly wage, these roles are often perceived as more prestigious and desirable. However, both categories of workers are integral to the functioning of society and prop up the nation’s economy.
What Is A Blue-Collar Worker?
A blue-collar worker is a person who performs manual labor or is involved with one of the skilled trades. These jobs are usually physically taxing, sometimes dangerous and may require specialized skills, apprenticeships, credentials and training.
Some examples of blue-collar jobs include construction workers, electricians, plumbers, carpenters, welders, machinists, heating and air conditioning technicians, truck drivers, mechanics, miners, factory workers and farmers.
To be in the skilled trades, you may need to complete at least a high school education or equivalent. Although, a high school diploma is not required for blue-collar roles. There may be requirements for specialized training or certification. Some blue-collar jobs, such as construction workers and electricians, require apprenticeships and joining a union.
How Much Does A Blue-Collar Worker Make?
There is a wide range as to what a blue-collar professional can earn. On the lower end of the compensation spectrum, the annual pay can run from $15,000 to $35,000 for cashiers, home health aides, food services, janitors, day laborers, Lyft or Uber drivers, housekeepers and security guards.
Mid-range blue-collar pay can be anywhere from $35,000 to more than $55,000, and sometimes into the six digits. These roles include truck drivers, plumbers, electricians, carpenters, HVAC technicians, automotive repair persons, welders, machinists and bus drivers.
The top end of blue-collar compensation ranges from $55,000 to more than $100,000. These workers include power-line installers, elevator mechanics, UPS drivers, railroad conductors, oil drillers, petroleum pump system operators, nuclear technicians, power plant operators and construction managers.
What Is A White-Collar Worker?
The term "white collar," also synonymous with the “laptop class,” refers to professionals who work in an office and earn an annual salary. They are not responsible for physically laborious tasks. Employers looking to hire these workers often require a bachelor’s degree or higher or equivalent experience working within that sector.
Examples of white-collar roles include lawyers, accountants, corporate executives, wealth managers, stock brokers, advertisers and marketers, healthcare providers, office managers, recruiters, salespeople, financial and data analysts, engineers, software developers, investment bankers, management consultants and human resources professionals.
Sample Of How Much White-Collar Workers Make
Lawyers
- Entry-level: $50,000 - $75,000
- Experienced (5+ years): $75,000 - $150,000
- Senior partners in law firms can earn $200,000+
Software Engineers
- Entry-Level: $70,000 - $95,000
- Experienced (5+ years): $110,000 - $175,000
- Senior Engineers/Architects: $175,000+
Accountants
- Entry-Level: $45,000 - $60,000
- Experienced (CPA License): $60,000 - $125,000
- Senior Managers/Partners In Accounting Firms: $150,000+
Investment Bankers
- Analysts (Entry-Level): $60,000 - $90,000
- Associates (Mid-Level): $150,000 - $250,000
- Vice Presidents: $250,000 - $500,000+
- Managing Directors: $500,000 - $5+ million
Corporate Executives
- Entry-Level Management: $65,000 - $100,000
- Directors/Vice Presidents: $150,000 - $300,000
- C-Level Positions At Large Firms: $300,000 - $1 million+
Misconceptions
Although office work is considered higher paying, it is important to note that a blue-collar worker can earn more than a white-collar professional. Lastly, in terms of “skilled” versus “unskilled,” when differentiating the two categories of workers, every job requires a different skill set. People who work white-collar jobs are not more skilled than blue-collar workers. A software engineer has the knowledge and skills to create a virtual house in the metaverse, but would not be equipped to build one in the real world, and vice versa.
