Imagine this: you have been working in a big tech company for years. You are an experienced professional with great qualifications. Suddenly, one fine day you get to know after reaching your office or through a mail that the company has decided to lay you off!
If this hypothetical scenario has given you a deja vu, then welcome to reality! You are not the only one who has gone through this.
After the hiring spree that the tech industry went through during the pandemic, they are now resorting to mass layoffs.
Now, naturally, these experienced individuals are now in search of other career options and job opportunities. Additionally, they both men and women are even considering entering the blue collar industry to earn their livelihood.
However, which field should you go to? What to do next? If these are some of the things that you have been searching for, then I have you covered! Therefore, keep on reading this blog till the end to learn more…
The Saga of Big Tech Layoffs?
Large number of significant companies like Microsoft, Amazon, and Google have been terminating workers for a variety of reasons in recent years.
As I have already mentioned, due to people working from home and doing online shopping during the pandemic, there was an unexpected demand for digital services. To accommodate this need, tech companies soon hired a large number of workers.
For instance, in order to accommodate additional people, Google extended its video conferencing offerings. Now that things are getting back to normal, there is a stable demand for these services, which means businesses don’t require as many personnel.
The world economy is changing. Money is moving less freely, and investors are being more frugal with their investments. Thus, there is pressure on tech companies to reduce their spending and increase their efficiency.
And what does this mean? Lay offs!
Investors are looking for tech companies to grow quickly. They pressure businesses to reduce expenses when growth slows, which frequently results in layoffs. They want businesses to eliminate anything that isn’t absolutely necessary and concentrate on the most vital projects.
Employers may fire workers because other employers are doing the same thing. Even though it’s not the ideal choice, it’s like a trend that gains traction. This phenomenon is known as “social contagion,” and it may result in needless layoffs.
“The job cuts surpassed 150,000 in 2022 and continue in 2023, with over 13,900 new ones as of March,” according to 365 Data Science.
Tech companies are constantly striving to maintain their competitive edge. They may need to rearrange their teams in order to do this and concentrate on the most important tasks. As a result, employment may be eliminated when the business attempts to simplify its processes.
What are Blue Collared Jobs?
Blue-collar jobs are those that usually require specialized trades or manual labor. These are the types of jobs, such as factory worker, mechanic, or electrician, where employees may wear protective clothes or a uniform.
There has been a discernible trend in favour of these positions recently. Let me tell you why, in case you were wondering: there are a number of reasons!
First and foremost, physical strength is no longer sufficient for blue-collar jobs due to technological advancements. Today’s workforce is more competent and specialized since they must learn to use sophisticated machinery and adjust to new technologies.
Apart from this, the world economy is always evolving. There are more blue-collar occupations like manufacturing and construction in some areas due to the increased demand for commodities and construction.
Additionally, particularly in hard economic times, a lot of individuals believe that jobs in the blue collar sector are safer. These positions offer a certain amount of job stability because they are less susceptible to automation or outsourcing than some office jobs.
Vocational education and training, on the other hand, that prepares individuals for careers in the blue-collar industries is on the rise. People can more easily acquire the skills required for these employment as a result of this.
Lastly, certain blue-collar jobs pay exceptionally well, particularly if they call for a particular skill set. The opportunity for earning a good salary rises with the demand for certain skills.
All these are the reasons why the perception of manual labour is evolving. It is now viewed as a realistic career path with prospects for progress and fulfilment rather than a last resort.
Why are People Shifting to Blue Collar Jobs After Tech Lay Offs?
The shift from white-collar tech jobs to blue-collar work is influenced by several factors. During economic downturns, tech companies often reduce their workforce to cut costs, leading to layoffs.
These layoffs can prompt former tech employees to seek more stable employment opportunities, and blue-collar jobs can offer that stability.
Blue-collar jobs are less susceptible to automation and outsourcing compared to some tech positions. Trades like electricians, plumbers, and mechanics provide essential services that require a physical presence and can’t be easily replaced by technology.
Additionally, there’s a growing appreciation for the skilled labour involved in these trades, which can also offer competitive salaries.
The rise of e-commerce and online services has also increased demand for blue-collar workers in logistics, warehousing, and transportation.
Moreover, with the focus on sustainability and renewable energy, jobs like solar panel installers and wind turbine technicians are becoming more prevalent and lucrative.
For those laid off from tech, retraining for blue-collar work can be a pathway to a new career. Vocational schools and community colleges offer programs to quickly learn the necessary skills, making the transition feasible.
The combination of job security, competitive pay, and the satisfaction of hands-on work makes blue-collar jobs an attractive option for many, especially people after getting laid off from big tech companies.
Are Blue Collared Jobs a Good Career Path?
According to most experts, professions in blue-collar employment can be quite fulfilling, especially in the current period. Demand and salaries for these jobs have been rising, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
The BLS reports that the average hourly salary for blue-collar employment has increased. In 2022, the average hourly wage for jobs in the construction and extraction industries, for example, was $21.38 for intermediate-level workers and $38.45 for experienced workers. This illustrates how experience can lead to a significant boost in a worker’s income.
The manufacturing, mining, construction, and logging industries are examples of blue-collar businesses that are vital to the economy. The BLS monitors employment growth in these industries, suggesting a consistent need for blue-collar workers.
The number of new jobs anticipated over the next ten years is also disclosed by the BLS. These forecasts frequently include blue-collar jobs, indicating that they will remain a source of employment prospects.
Because of technological improvements, blue-collar professions increasingly require a combination of technical abilities and physical labour. This combination may open up more profitable and specialized employment options.
Blue-collar employment comes in a variety of forms, ranging from more conventional occupations like electricians and plumbers to more contemporary roles utilizing cutting-edge gear. Because of this diversity, there are numerous career options in the blue-collar industry.
Additionally, the average wages of blue collar jobs have increased since 1990. “Not only does it reflect potential improvements in the quality of life and purchasing power among the blue-collar demographic, but it also indicates possible shifts in the societal value placed on skilled manual labour over the past few decades,” according to Gitnux.
How Many Jobs are Available in Blue Collared Industry?
Now that you are aware of what blue collared jobs are and why has there been a rise in the number of these jobs, it is time for you to know how many jobs are available in this field.
When it comes to the United States, we can see that the number of vacancies in this field has increased rapidly over the past few years.
For instance, the manufacturing industry, which is a key blue collar sector, employed near about 12.1 million people in the year 2020. This sector is popular for producing goods. Since the beginning of this industry, the manufacturing sector has been providing employment to a sizable workforce.
Between 2016 and 2019, the number of manufacturing jobs in the US increased by 454,000. Manufacturing jobs make up a large portion of the blue-collar employment sector. Therefore, this growth implies that manpower is required in this industry.
Additionally, in 2019, almost 16% of all blue-collar workers in the US were employed in the construction industry. This is yet another widely popular blue collar sector.
Now, according to several reports, there is a scarcity of the blue collar workers in the industry. This deficit is expected to persist until at least 2030.
Because of this shortage, there are more job openings in these areas than there are workers, which is helpful for people looking for work in these sectors.
A research suggests that there may be 2.4 million unfilled manufacturing jobs in the US between 2018 and 2028. This suggests that the blue-collar sector has a large number of available jobs.
Best Blue Collar Jobs to Take After Getting Laid Off from Big Tech Companies
If you are planning to get a complete career switch, and do something else that also comes with stability and its own share of benefits, it is time for you to think about getting into blue collared jobs!
Wondering which ones to choose? I have you sorted!
Here is a complete list of some of the best blue collar jobs that you can try if your big tech company had laid you off!
1. Electrician
Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical power systems in homes and businesses.
Average Salary: $56,900
Skill Set: Electrical knowledge, problem-solving, safety awareness.
2. Plumber
Plumbers work on piping systems for water, gas, and waste, ensuring they are functional and leak-free.
Average Salary: $55,160
Skill Set: Manual dexterity, understanding of plumbing systems, and customer service.
3. Welder
Welders join metal parts using various welding techniques, often for construction or manufacturing.
Average Salary: $44,190
Skill Set: Precision, steady hands, knowledge of welding methods.
4. Carpenter
Carpenters build and repair building frameworks and structures, such as stairways and doorframes.
Average Salary: $49,520
Skill Set: Math skills, physical strength, attention to detail.
5. HVAC Technician
HVAC technicians install and repair heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems.
Average Salary: $50,590
Skill Set: Mechanical skills, troubleshooting, customer service.
6. Construction Worker
Construction workers perform various tasks at construction sites, from operating machinery to laying bricks.
Average Salary: $37,890
Skill Set: Physical stamina, teamwork, basic construction knowledge.
7. Automotive Mechanic
Mechanics inspect, maintain, and repair cars and trucks.
Average Salary: $44,050
Skill Set: Problem-solving, automotive knowledge, customer service.
8. Machinist
Machinists operate machine tools to produce precision metal parts.
Average Salary: $45,840
Skill Set: Technical skills, attention to detail, stamina.
9. Painter
Painters apply paint, stain, and coatings to walls, buildings, bridges, and other structures.
Average Salary: $41,540
Skill Set: Aesthetic sense, precision, physical endurance.
10. Truck Driver
Truck drivers transport goods over short or long distances.
Average Salary: $47,130
Skill Set: Driving skills, time management, stress tolerance.
11. Landscaper
Landscapers create and maintain outdoor spaces, planting flowers, and trimming hedges.
Average Salary: $32,220
Skill Set: Creativity, physical fitness, plant knowledge.
12. Boilermaker
Boilermakers assemble, install, and repair boilers and other large containers holding liquids and gases.
Average Salary: $63,100
Skill Set: Welding, blueprint reading, physical strength.
13. Sheet Metal Worker
These workers fabricate or install products made from thin metal sheets.
Average Salary: $51,370
Skill Set: Dexterity, spatial skills, reading blueprints.
14. Ironworker
Ironworkers install iron elements for buildings and bridges.
Average Salary: $53,650
Skill Set: Balance, strength, fearlessness at heights.
15. Bricklayer
Bricklayers lay bricks, concrete blocks, and other types of building blocks in mortar.
Average Salary: $53,100
Skill Set: Hand-eye coordination, physical strength, precision.
16. Pipefitter
Pipefitters install and repair high-pressure piping systems.
Average Salary: $58,150
Skill Set: Math skills, problem-solving, physical strength.
17. Crane Operator
Crane operators use cranes to lift, move, or place equipment and materials.
Average Salary: $60,530
Skill Set: Attention to detail, hand-eye coordination, patience.
18. Roofer
Roofers repair and install roofs using various materials.
Average Salary: $42,100
Skill Set: Balance, no fear of heights, physical strength.
19. Tile and Marble Setter
These workers lay and finish tile and marble floors and walls.
Average Salary: $43,050
Skill Set: Detail-oriented, artistic skills, physical stamina.
20. Elevator Installer and Repairer
They install, fix, and maintain elevators, escalators, and other lifts.
Average Salary: $84,990
Skill Set: Mechanical skills, troubleshooting, precision.
21. Wind Turbine Technician
Technicians install, maintain, and repair wind turbines.
Average Salary: $56,230
Skill Set: Technical skills, no fear of heights, problem-solving.
22. Solar Photovoltaic Installer
Installers set up and maintain solar panels.
Average Salary: $44,890
Skill Set: Electrical skills, strength, balance.
23. Insulation Worker
Insulation workers install and replace materials used to insulate buildings.
Average Salary: $45,320
Skill Set: Dexterity, reading blueprints, measuring skills.
24. Heavy Equipment Operator
Operators control heavy machinery used in construction.
Average Salary: $49,100
Skill Set: Coordination, machine operation, attention to safety.
25. Railroad Worker
Railroad workers maintain and operate train systems.
Average Salary: $64,210
Skill Set: Mechanical skills, strength, alertness.
26. Telecommunications Line Installer
These workers install and repair telecommunications cables, including fibre optics.
Average Salary: $58,280
Skill Set: Technical knowledge, climbing skills, problem-solving.
Best Career Options to Take After Getting Laid Off from Big Tech Companies
Coming back to what I had mentioned earlier in this blog. It has been seen that most of the people who have been laid off by the big tech companies are experienced, professionals.
They have years of experience and that is the reason it is only natural that these lay offs feel like getting thrown under the bus out of nowhere.
However, if you are planning to stay in the tech industry, it is possible for you to get a new job and make a career shift. Here are the top 25 carer options to try out after getting laid off from big tech companies:
1. Data Scientist
Average Salary: $120,000/year.
As a data scientist, you will be responsible for analyzing complex data to help companies make better decisions. You would need to interpret huge amounts of data from several sources, using data mining, algorithmic, machine learning and artificial intelligence, as well as statistical tools, and make it accessible to businesses.
Skill Set: Proficiency in programming languages like Python or R, statistical analysis, and machine learning.
2. Cybersecurity Analyst
Average Salary: $99,000/year.
The primary task of a Cybersecurity Analyst is to protect company networks and systems from cyber threats. They are responsible for monitoring security incidents and responding to them as and when required. If you are planning to take up this career, you need to analyze security alerts and scrutinize potential threats. Additionally, you will have to take action in order to mitigate the risks.
Skill Set: Knowledge of security protocols, risk analysis, and familiarity with hacking techniques.
3. Software Developer
Average Salary: $107,000/year.
If you are planning to become a software developer, you have chosen a great career path. They are programmers who use their skills for creating new software. Additionally, they are responsible for improving software applications which already exist. You will need to design and code for building operating systems and/or mobile apps. In short, software developers create software to solve problems or fulfil user needs.
Skill Set: Strong coding skills in languages like Java, C++, or Python, and an understanding of software development methodologies.
4. UI/UX Designer
Average Salary: $85,000/year.
Just in case you did not know, UI stands for User Interface and UX stands for User Experience. These designers are responsible for improving user experience and interface design for better usability. If you are planning to be one, you will need to gather the user requirements, evaluate and analyze them, and collaborate with the product managers and the engineers who are equally responsible for launching the product.
Skill Set: Design tools like Sketch or Adobe XD, user research, and prototyping.
5. Web Developer
Average Salary: $75,000/year.
The task of a web developer is to build and maintain websites. They are responsible for ensuring that the website they are creating is visually appealing and that the interface is easy to navigate. Additionally, the web developers are also responsible for ensuring that the website’s performance goes smoothly and it works at full capacity.
Skill Set: HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and knowledge of web frameworks.
6. Software QA Tester
Average Salary: $70,000/year.
While the software developers create and design the software applications, the task of the software QA tester is to check the quality of the software through manual and automated testing. They are responsible forchecking the software before it is launched and report the defects that need to be rectified.
Skill Set: Testing tools, attention to detail, and analytical skills.
7. IT Director
Average Salary: $140,000/year.
Just as the name suggests, IT directors oversee technology strategies and operations within a company. They are responsible and in charge of the technology in the organization. Additionally, if you are planning to be an IT director, you need to research as well as purchase all the hardware and software for any updates when required.
Skill Set: Leadership, strategic planning, and a broad understanding of IT infrastructure.
8. Database Architect
Average Salary: $115,000/year.
Database architects design and manage complex databases for companies to store and organize data. As a database architect, you will be responsible for working with firms which provide design services for computers.
Skill Set: SQL, database management systems, and data modelling.
9. Cloud Engineer
Average Salary: $120,000/year.
Cloud engineers are professionals in the IT industry who are are responsible for anything and everything that is related to cloud computing. They manage cloud-based systems and services. Additionally, you will be responsible for ensuring that you follow systematic approaches to solve the issues that your organization faces.
Skill Set: Cloud platforms like AWS or Azure, networking, and security.
10. AI Specialist
Average Salary: $130,000/year.
An AI specialist is a professional who is responsible for developing intelligent systems and applications for their organization. Their primary role is to ensure that they design and create the automated software that mimic human intelligence which will help their organization.
Skill Set: Machine learning, neural networks, and programming skills.
11. Product Manager
Average Salary: $109,000/year.
The role of a product manager is to guide the development and strategy of a product. They are responsible for identifying the needs of a customer and the objectives of businesses about the product. In short, if you are planning to be a product manager, you will need to ensure that you are in total control of everything that a particular product needs to be, from scratch!
Skill Set: Market analysis, project management, and communication.
12. Technical Writer
Average Salary: $72,000/year.
The task of a technical writer is to create documentation for technical products. Consider that a product is in the making. The task of you as a technical writer would be to ensure that you document each and every step that was taken to create the product. You are required to create a technical user manual using the right tools to be able to collaborate with the designers and other professionals.
Skill Set: Writing skills, technical knowledge, and ability to explain complex concepts simply.
13. Business Analyst
Average Salary: $82,000/year.
If you are planning to become a business analyst, you will be responsible for analyzing the data related to the specific business. Your goal would be to ensure that you are able to help the organization achieve its goals with the help of the data that you have.
Skill Set: Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and knowledge of business software.
14. Network Engineer
Average Salary: $85,000/year.
The next one on the list of career options that you can take if you get laid off from big tech companies is to be a network engineer. They are professionals who design and maintain computer networks. They are also responsible for implementing as well as troubleshooting the computer network of an organization.
Skill Set: Networking protocols, hardware, and troubleshooting skills.
15. Systems Analyst
Average Salary: $88,000/year.
Last but not least, systems analysts play a role in assessing and improving computer systems for businesses. They are closely related to modifying and integrating new features to improve business efficiency.
Skill Set: Systems design, problem-solving, and technical communication.
Other Career Options After Getting Laid Off!
Did you think that the list was over? Hell no!
Here are some often other career options that you can tube about if you are planning to stay in the tech industry while getting laid off from the big tech companies:
16. DevOps Engineer
DevOps engineers work on system deployment and network operations.
Average Salary: $115,000/year.
Skill Set: Automation tools, coding, and system administration.
17. Digital Marketing Specialist
They create and manage online marketing campaigns.
Average Salary: $67,000/year.
Skill Set: SEO, content marketing, and analytics tools.
18. Sales Engineer
Sales engineers combine technical knowledge with sales skills to sell complex products.
Average Salary: $103,000/year.
Skill Set: Technical expertise, sales experience, and communication skills.
19. Data Analyst
Data analysts interpret data to help businesses make informed decisions.
Average Salary: $68,000/year.
Skill Set: Data visualization, statistical software, and database querying.
20. HR Specialist
HR specialists manage employee relations and company policies.
Average Salary: $61,000/year.
Skill Set: Knowledge of HR practices, communication, and organizational skills.
21. Customer Success Manager
They ensure customers are satisfied and engaged with the product.
Average Salary: $90,000/year.
Skill Set: Customer service, project management, and interpersonal skills.
22. Technical Support Specialist
Technical support specialists help users with technical issues.
Average Salary: $50,000/year.
Skill Set: Troubleshooting, knowledge of hardware/software, and customer service.
23. Research Scientist
Research scientists conduct experiments to develop new products or knowledge.
Average Salary: $99,000/year.
Skill Set: Scientific research, data analysis, and critical thinking.
24. Consultant
Consultants provide expert advice to improve business performance.
Average Salary: $85,000/year.
Skill Set: Industry knowledge, problem-solving, and communication.
25. Entrepreneur
Entrepreneurs start their own businesses or ventures.
Average Salary: Variable.
Skill Set: Creativity, risk-taking, and business acumen.
Wrapping It Up!
Considering the fact that there has been a rise in layoffs by big tech companies like Microsoft and Google, employees who have years of experience have been losing their jobs. Hence, there is absolutely no doubt that people are in utter shock.
However, if you are someone who is planning to switch your career or even start your career in blue collar industry, it is possible.
As an experienced professional, you will be able to easily get hatred by other tech companies in the same niche. On the other hand, if you are planning to start your career in blue collar industry, you will be.
In case you were searching about the career options that you can take after getting laid off by big tech companies, I hope that this blog has been of help to you, If there are any other questions that you might have related to the same, please feel free to let me know.
All that you need to do is scroll down till you reach the bottom of the page. Then leave your comments and suggestions in the box below. And I will be there to help you out with the same
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