We are delighted to share some exciting news about How Many Jobs are Available in Basic industries. Basic industries produce essential goods and services for society, such as food, energy, materials, and transportation. These industries are vital for our economy and well-being, offering a wide range of jobs for skilled and motivated workers. In this article, we will explore how many jobs are available in primary industries, the qualifications and benefits of these jobs, and how you can pursue a rewarding career in these sectors. Join us as we celebrate the potential and promise of primary industries!
What are the Basic Industries
According to Smart Capital Mind, the primary industry is
An industry that focuses on producing products and services for export rather than domestic sales and circulation and is commonly known as an **export-oriented industry**. These industries provide raw materials to other industries to manufacture goods. Primary sectors include grain production, iron, and steel, metallurgical, wood, paper, milling, and chemicals. Primary industries are fundamental for the proper functioning of the overall economy.
Importance of Basic Industries
Basic industries is the primary key to many finished products we use and rely on. They supply raw materials for other industries, such as steel, oil, cotton, and minerals. They also provide employment opportunities and income for many workers and communities. Some of the benefits and challenges of working in primary industries are:
Job stability and security
Primary industries tend to be less affected by economic downturns than other sectors, as they produce essential goods that are always in demand. They also offer long-term career paths for workers who can acquire specialized skills and experience.
Low barrier to entry
Primary industries often does not require high levels of education or formal qualifications for entry-level positions. They may provide on-the-job or specialized training opportunities for workers who want to advance their careers.
High-paying career paths
Primary industries can offer high-paying career paths for workers with the right skills, qualifications, and experience. For example, petroleum engineers, metallurgists, and geologists can earn the average wage in their respective fields.
Environmental and social impacts
Primary industries also face some challenges and responsibilities related to their environmental and social impacts. They may have to comply with strict regulations and standards to minimize pollution, waste, and greenhouse gas emissions. They may also have to address the concerns of local communities and stakeholders affected by their operations.
International competition
Primary industries are subject to intense international competition from other producers who may have lower costs, better technologies, or more favorable market conditions. They may have to innovate constantly to maintain their competitiveness and quality standards.
Current Job Market in Basic Industries
Primary industries are the sectors that produce or process raw materials for other industries, such as agriculture, mining, construction, and manufacturing. They are essential for the economy and society, providing critical goods and services, employment opportunities, and income for many workers and communities. However, they also face some challenges and uncertainties in the current job market, such as
Declining or low employment growth
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment outlook for many primary industries is expected to decline or remain low for the next decade. The BLS reports that some positions, such as agricultural and labor, may experience a minimal 1% increase through 2031, while other jobs, like forest and conservation and logging, are projected to decline by as much as 4%. Additionally, the report shows that manufacturing employment is expected to decrease by 0.1% annually between 2021 to 2031. Some factors contributing to this trend include automation, outsourcing, environmental regulations, and international competition.
High demand for skilled workers
Despite the decline or low employment growth, some primary industries still demand skilled workers with the right qualifications, experience, and certifications. For example, petroleum engineers, metallurgists, geologists, electricians, plumbers, and carpenters are some of the occupations that are projected to have faster-than-average growth rates from 2021 to 2031. These occupations often require a bachelor’s degree or higher, a license or certification, or extensive on-the-job training.
Impact of the pandemic recovery
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the job market in general and some primary industries in particular. Some sectors, such as construction, transportation, and warehousing, have experienced a surge in demand and employment due to increased spending on infrastructure, e-commerce, and delivery services. Other sectors, such as leisure and hospitality, have sharply declined requests and jobs due to the lockdowns, travel restrictions, and social distancing measures. However, as the pandemic recovery progresses, some sectors are expected to recover their pandemic-driven employment losses by 2031 mostly.
Types of Jobs in Basic Industries
Primary industries are the sectors that produce or process raw materials for other industries, such as agriculture, mining, construction, and manufacturing. They offer a variety of jobs that require different skills, qualifications, and responsibilities. Some of the common types of jobs in primary industries are:
Agriculture
Agriculture jobs involve cultivating plants, animals, and land to produce food, fiber, and fuel. Agriculture workers may work on farms, ranches, orchards, nurseries, or greenhouses. They may perform tasks such as planting, harvesting, irrigating, feeding, milking, or shearing. Some examples of agriculture jobs and their average salary are:
- Farmer ($77,900)
- Farmhand ($28,900)
- Agricultural engineer ($86,930)
- Agricultural scientist ($71,160)
- Veterinarian ($105,240)
Education
Education jobs involve teaching or training students of various ages and levels. Education workers may work in schools, colleges, universities, or other institutions. They may teach math, science, language arts, history, or art subjects. They may also provide guidance, counseling, or administration services. Some examples of education jobs and their average salary are:
- Teacher ($64,870)
- Tutor ($41,780)
- Librinvolve Arian ($64,180)
- Counsellor ($60,660)
- Principal ($101,990)
Food production
Jobs were processing raw materials into edible products such as meat, dairy, grains, fruits, or vegetables. Food production workers may work in factories, slaughterhouses, bakeries, breweries, or wineries. They may perform cutting, grinding, mixing, baking, fermenting, or packaging tasks. Some examples of food production jobs and their average salary are:
- Food processor ($32,230)
- Butcher ($35,380)
- Baker ($29.630)
- Brewer ($46.650) [according to Payscale]
- Winemaker ($63.000) [according to Payscale]
Manufacturing
Manufacturing jobs involve making or assembling products such as cars, machines, electronics, or furniture. Manufacturing workers may work in plants, factories, or workshops. They may use machines, tools, or computer programs to operate, control, or design the production process. Some examples of manufacturing jobs and their average salary are:
- Machine operator ($36.920)
- Welder ($46.160)
- Assembler ($36.030)
- Industrial engineer ($90.450)
- Mechanical engineer ($93.540)
Here is a table of some common jobs available in basic industries:
| Job | Description | Average Salary |
| Steelworker | Produces the steel that is used in various products and structures. | $40,000 |
| Miner | Extracts the minerals and fossil fuels that are used in various industries. | $51,000 |
| Horticulturist | Grows fruits, vegetables, and other plants for food or ornamental purposes. | $38,000 |
| Drilling Engineer | Designs and oversees the drilling operations for oil and gas extraction. | $116,000 |
Summary of Jobs in Basic Industries
According to the Future of Jobs Report 2020 by the World Economic Forum, primary industries such as agriculture, mining, manufacturing, construction, and utilities are undergoing significant changes due to technological adoption, automation, and environmental challenges. These changes will affect the demand and supply of jobs in these industries and the skills and qualifications required for them.
According to the report, the shift in the division of labor between humans and machines may displace 85 million jobs by 2025. However, the report also predicts that 97 million new roles better suited to the new division of labor between humans, machines, and algorithms may emerge across 15 industries and 26 economies. Some functions expected to decline include data entry clerks, administrative and executive secretaries, accounting and bookkeeping clerks, assembly and factory workers, and business services and administrative managers. Some of the roles that are expected to grow include data analysts and scientists, AI and machine learning specialists, robotics engineers, software and application developers, digital transformation specialists, process automation specialists, information security analysts, internet of things specialists, materials engineers, renewable energy engineers, fintech engineers, biologists and geneticists, remote sensing scientists and technicians.
Employment Opportunities in Basic Industries
Primary industries are the sectors that produce or process raw materials and natural resources for other industries, such as agriculture, mining, construction, and manufacturing. They are essential for the economy and society, as they provide the goods and services we use and rely on daily. They also offer a variety of employment opportunities for workers with different skills, qualifications, and interests. Some of the benefits of working in primary industries are:
High pay
Many jobs in primary industries offer high pay, especially for workers with specialized skills and technical knowledge. For example, according to Indeed.com, some of the best-paying jobs in primary industries are:
- Petroleum engineer ($134,730)
- Metallurgist ($95,010)
- Geologist ($92,040)
- Electrician ($60,370)
- Plumber ($61,100)
Job stability
Primary industries are less affected by economic fluctuations than other sectors, as they produce essential goods that are always in demand. This means that jobs in these industries can be more stable and secure than in other sectors. For example, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment outlook for many primary industries is expected to decline or remain low for the next decade. However, this does not mean these industries will have no job opportunities. Instead, it means there will be less competition and more demand for workers with the right skills and qualifications.
Opportunities for career advancement
Basic industries provide various career opportunities, including entry-level positions and managerial roles. With experience and further education, workers can progress and take on more challenging roles with greater responsibility and higher pay. For example, according to Indeed.com, some of the career paths in basic industries are:
- Farmer -> Farm manager -> Agricultural engineer
- Construction worker -> Carpenter -> Construction manager
- Food processor -> Food quality inspector -> Food scientist
- Machine operator -> Industrial engineer -> Manufacturing manager
- Teacher -> Tutor -> Librarian
Meaningful work
Working in primary industries involves dealing with natural resources and raw materials, which can provide a sense of purpose and connection to the environment. Many workers find the work in these industries fulfilling and rewarding, as they contribute to producing essential goods and services that benefit society. For example, some of the meaningful work in primary industries are:
- Farming: Growing crops and raising animals for food production
- Mining: Extracting minerals and metals for various uses
- Construction: Building or repairing structures such as houses, bridges, or roads
- Manufacturing: Making or assembling products such as cars, machines, or furniture
- Education: Teaching or training students of various ages and levels.
Impact of Technology on Jobs in Basic Industries
Technology is a powerful force that shapes the world of work in various ways. It can create new opportunities, improve productivity, enhance quality, and reduce costs. It can also disrupt existing processes, displace workers, change skill requirements, and create new challenges. Technology can positively and negatively impact jobs in primary industries, such as agriculture, mining, construction, and manufacturing. Some of the impacts of technology on employment in primary industries are:
Automation
Automation refers to using machines, robots, or software to perform tasks previously done by humans. Automation can increase production processes’ efficiency, accuracy, safety, and profitability. It can also reduce human errors, waste, and environmental impact. However, automation can also eliminate or reduce the need for human labor, especially for routine, repetitive, or low-skill tasks. For example, according to McKinsey, automation could displace up to 37 million workers globally by 2030. Some of the jobs that are most susceptible to automation are:
- Farmhand
- Food processor
- Machine Operator
- Construction worker
- Assembler
Digitalization
Digitalization uses digital technologies and platforms to create, store, process, and share information and data. Digitalization can enable new ways of working, learning, communicating, and collaborating. It can also create new markets, products, services, and business models. However, digitalization can also require new skills and competencies for workers to adapt to the changing environment. It can also create unknown risks and challenges, such as cybersecurity, data privacy, the digital divide, and addiction. For example, according to the World Economic Forum (WEF), 44% of workers’ skills will be disrupted by 2025 due to digitalization. Some of the skills that will be in high demand are:
- Communication
- Problem-solving
- Critical thinking
- Creativity
- Technology literacy
Innovation
Innovation refers to creating or adopting new or improved technologies, products, services, or processes. Innovation can drive growth, competitiveness, and sustainability of industries. It can also create new opportunities, challenges, and value for workers, customers, and society. However, innovation can also require significant investment, research, and development. It can also create uncertainty, complexity, and disruption in existing markets, industries, and regulations. For example, according to Indeed.com, some of the best-paying jobs in primary sectors that are driven by innovation are:
- Petroleum engineer ($134.730)
- Metallurgist ($95.010)
- Geologist ($92.040)
- Industrial engineer ($90.450)
- Mechanical engineer ($93.540)
Critical Challenges in the Job Market of Basic Industries
Primary industries are the sectors that produce or process raw materials and natural resources for other industries, such as agriculture, mining, construction, and manufacturing. They are essential for the economy and society, providing the goods and services we use and rely on daily. However, they also face some challenges and uncertainties in the current job market, such as
Labour shortage
One of the significant challenges facing primary industries is the need for more workers to fill the available jobs. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, there are 9.9 million job openings in the U.S., but only 5.8 million unemployed workers. This means there are more jobs than workers in many sectors, especially in primary industries such as transportation, health care and social assistance, and accommodation and food services. Some of the factors that contribute to this labour shortage include
The COVID-19 pandemic caused many workers to leave the labour force due to health concerns, family responsibilities, or reduced demand for their services.
The skills gap refers to the mismatch between the skills and qualifications employers need and those workers have. Many jobs in primary industries require specialized skills and technical knowledge that are not widely available or taught in schools.
The aging population means that many workers are retiring or approaching retirement age and leaving the workforce. This creates a gap in experience and leadership that is hard to fill for younger workers.
Economic fluctuations
Another challenge facing primary industries is the impact of economic fluctuations on their demand and profitability. Primary industries are often sensitive to changes in consumer preferences, market conditions, trade policies, environmental regulations, and technological innovations. These factors can affect the supply and demand of raw materials and products, as well as the costs and revenues of production. For example,
The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted the global supply chains and trade flows of many primary industries, such as agriculture, mining, and manufacturing. This has caused shortages, delays, price volatility, and reduced demand for some goods and services.
The transition to a low-carbon economy has created opportunities and challenges for primary industries, such as energy production, mining, and manufacturing. On the one hand, this transition has increased the demand for renewable energy sources, clean technologies, and green products. On the other hand, it has also imposed stricter environmental regulations and standards on carbon-intensive industries, which may increase their costs and reduce their competitiveness.
The advancement of automation and artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed many primary industries, such as manufacturing, construction, and education. On the one hand, this advancement has improved the productivity, efficiency, quality, and safety of production processes. On the other hand, it has also displaced some workers or changed their roles and responsibilities.
Future Prospects of Jobs in Basic Industries
Primary industries are the sectors that produce or process raw materials and natural resources for other industries, such as agriculture, mining, construction, and manufacturing. They are essential for the economy and society, providing the goods and services we use and rely on daily. However, they also face challenges and uncertainties in the current and future job market, such as labour shortages, economic fluctuations, and technological innovations. Therefore, the prospects of jobs in primary industries may vary depending on the sector, occupation, skill level, and location. Some of the trends and factors that may affect the prospects of jobs in primary industries are:
Job growth or decline
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job outlook for many primary industries is expected to decline or remain low for the next decade. For example, the BLS report highlights that while agricultural labour positions may experience a minimal 1% increase through 2031, other parts, such as forest, conservation, and logging, are projected to decline by as much as 4%1. Manufacturing employment is projected to decrease by 0.1% annually from 2021 to 2031. Some factors contributing to this trend include automation, outsourcing, environmental regulations, and international competition.
However, this does not mean these industries will have no job opportunities. Instead, it means there will be less competition and more demand for workers with the right skills and qualifications. Moreover, some sectors and occupations within primary industries may experience faster-than-average growth rates due to increased demand for their products or services. For example, according to Indeed.com, some of the best-paying jobs in primary industries that are projected to grow faster than average from 2021 to 2031 are:
- Petroleum engineer (11%)
- Metallurgist (5%)
- Geologist (5%)
- Electrician (8%)
- Plumber (10%)
Skill requirements
Another factor that may affect the prospects of jobs in primary industries is the skill requirements for each occupation. As technology advances and production processes become more complex and efficient, workers may need to update their skills and knowledge to keep up with the changes. For example, workers may need to learn how to use new machines, tools, or software programs that automate or enhance their tasks. They may also need to acquire communication, problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity, and teamwork skills, which are essential for working with technology and collaborating with others.
Therefore, workers pursuing a career in primary industries should be prepared to invest in their education and training. They should also be flexible and adaptable to changing market conditions and opportunities. Some of the ways that workers can improve their skills for primary industries are:
- Pursuing a degree or certification in a relevant field such as engineering, science, technology, or trade
- Taking online courses or workshops that teach specific skills or topics related to their industry or occupation
- Participating in apprenticeships or internships that provide hands-on experience and mentorship
- Seeking feedback and guidance from supervisors, colleagues, or mentors who have more experience or expertise
- Joining professional associations or networks that offer resources, events, or connections for career development
Location opportunities
A third factor that may affect the prospects of jobs in primary industries is the location opportunities for each sector and occupation. Some primary industries may be concentrated in specific regions or areas due to the availability of natural resources, infrastructure, or markets. For example, the oil and gas industry is mainly located in Texas, Oklahoma, and Alaska, while the agriculture industry is primarily in states such as California, Iowa, and Nebraska. Therefore, workers who want to pursue a career in primary industries may need to consider relocating or commuting to areas with more job opportunities for their sector or occupation.
However, some primary industries may also offer remote or flexible work options for some occupations, especially those that involve digital or online tasks. For example, some education jobs, such as teachers, tutors, or librarians, can work from home or anywhere with an internet connection. Some manufacturing jobs, such as industrial, mechanical, or process engineers, can work remotely or occasionally travel to different sites. Therefore, workers pursuing a career in primary industries may also look for remote or flexible work options that suit their preferences and needs.
Conclusion
Primary industries produce essential goods and services for society, such as food, energy, materials, and transportation. They offer many jobs for skilled and motivated workers but face some challenges and uncertainties in the job market. Technology is a significant factor that affects the demand and supply of jobs in primary industries. It can create new opportunities and improve productivity, but it can also disrupt existing processes and displace workers. Workers pursuing a career in primary industries should be prepared to invest in their education and training, update their skills and knowledge, and be flexible and adaptable to changing market conditions and opportunities. Technology can positively and negatively impact jobs in primary industries, and workers should be aware of these impacts and prepare themselves accordingly.
Read More About: How Tech Can Automate Manufacturing
