5 of the Best Paying Jobs in Consumer Non-Durables

Don't overlook this foundational field.

5 of the Best Paying Jobs in Consumer Non-Durables

In an ever-changing economy, finding a job that is in demand and growing is just as important as getting paid well for your hard work. The best-paying jobs in consumer non-durables not only offer a high salary but also have promising job growth in the future.

What are consumer non-durables? These products have a limited lifespan, and you use them quickly or replace them, such as food and toiletries. As the population continues to grow in the United States, the demand for consumer non-durables will continue to grow. This provides an incredible opportunity for anyone working in this field or looking to transfer into it.

Read on to learn more about the best-paying jobs in consumer non-durables and what it takes to lock down one of these desirable employment opportunities.

Sales Representatives for Technical Products

Sales representatives for technical products and services work in various industries, including consumer non-durables. The job involves promoting and selling specialized products or services to businesses and other organizations. This job requires at least a bachelor's degree, but many companies offer on-the-job training.

A bachelor's degree usually takes four years to receive, but arguably, the most challenging part of this job is the sales training. Sales can be cutthroat, but the rewards (and stress) are worth it. The best training for sales will be on the job. You can be successful if you approach the opportunity with an open mind and a hard-working attitude.

The average salary for this job is $75,000 (source). In addition to a competitive salary, sales representatives often receive commissions or bonuses for meeting and exceeding sales targets. Most sales representatives also get benefits like 401k contributions, health insurance, and vacation time.

Sales is a rapidly growing industry, with an expected job growth of 5% by 2028. This is faster than the national average, meaning that now is a great time to start a career in sales.

Tractor-trailer Truck Drivers

Another high-paying job in consumer non-durables is a tractor-trailer truck driver. This job involves transporting goods by operating a tractor-trailer truck.

It’s in high demand since so many truck drivers quit during the pandemic, and there have been global supply chain challenges. Many people didn't realize how vital tractor-trailer truck drivers were until the recent supply chain struggles.

This job typically requires a high school diploma and a commercial driver's license, with some companies providing on-the-job training. To get your commercial driving license (CDL) and maintain it, you must pass a physical exam, have a clean driving record, and obtain the necessary endorsements for hauling various products.

You may need to get additional certifications depending on what you are moving. For example, you will need a hazmat endorsement if you are hauling hazardous materials.

The average salary for this job is $50,000, with the added perk of being able to travel across the country. Truck drivers enjoy benefits like retirement contributions, health insurance, dental, vision, and life insurance.

Many expect the job growth for tractor-trailer truck drivers to be 4%, higher than the national average. This job is an excellent option for those who want to see the country while enjoying a high salary and benefits package.

Logisticians

Logisticians work in the supply chain industry and coordinate goods' movement, storage, and distribution. It’s a great job for people who are detail-oriented and love problem-solving.

This job requires at least a bachelor's degree in a related field and on-the-job training. However, high positions in this career field may require a master's or another professional degree. Getting a bachelor's and master's degree can be difficult and expensive, but the added qualifications may result in higher pay and job opportunities.

The average salary for logisticians is $74,000, and they often have the opportunity for advancement within the company. Many executives in large companies started as logisticians. In addition to their salary, logisticians often receive benefits such as health insurance, vacation time, and retirement contributions.

Logistics is a rapidly growing industry and is crucial for the movement of goods, and logisticians are necessary to ensure the smooth and efficient transport of goods. Economists project this job to grow by 7% in the next decade, providing stability and growth opportunities in the future.

Stock Laborers

Stock laborers and material movers have the vital job of loading and unloading products from trucks, moving them within warehouses, and organizing them for distribution. Without this critical career field, logistics would grind to a halt.

You do not need a high school diploma for this job, but it does require physical strength and stamina. Depending on the type of products you are unloading, you may need additional certifications for using a forklift or other heavy-duty equipment. Many companies will pay for you to get certified or provide on-the-job training.

The average salary for this job is only $29,000 (source), but there are often opportunities for overtime pay. Unfortunately, many stock laborers do not receive additional benefits.

The government projects this field to grow by 3%, which is lower than the national average. However, as long as goods are transported, stock laborers will need to unload and organize these products.

Shipping Clerks

Shipping clerks are responsible for organizing shipments, keeping track of orders, and ensuring they arrive on time. This job typically requires a high school diploma and previous experience in a warehouse or shipping setting. Some stock laborers move into the office and become shipping clerks. Although this is less demanding physically, it is more taxing mentally.

The average salary starts at around $35,000, with opportunities for advancement within the company. Depending on the business and the specific job, some shipping clerks receive additional benefits. This job is expected to grow by 2% in the next decade.

Wrap Up

Overall, the best-paying jobs in consumer non-durables involve sales, transportation, and supply chain management. These jobs often require a degree or specialized training but offer competitive salaries and growth potential. But remember, where you start does not limit how high you can go and how much you can earn!