5 high-risk jobs that actually pay well

While being a soldier in the peacekeeping corps, working on a construction site on a high altitude, and being a coal miner are all quite dangerous professions, they aren’t really regarded as well-paid jobs. The same goes for the majority of jobs that you see on shows like “Ax Men” and “Deadliest Catch” all of which usually pay under the median salary. This means that while you’re literally risking your life and limb, your salary isn’t something to write home about. For all those who are not afraid to take a risk but would rather if they were financially compensated for the risk, here are the top five occupations that actually pay rather well.

Airline pilot

Keep in mind that this is not necessarily a dangerous job in terms of immediate risk for your physical health. After all, plane crashes are, statistically, less likely than automobile accidents. On the other hand, you’re operating heavy machinery high up in the sky and are directly responsible for the lives of dozens of people, some of whom are children and families. Therefore, this is a line of work for those who have steel conviction and self-esteem, as well as the patience and the ability to stay calm even in the most difficult of scenarios.

Private detective

When we’ve mentioned the concept of a risky job, the majority of people immediately thought of working on high altitude or being surrounded by the constant, imminent danger of heavy machinery. The job of a PI (private investigator) can be quite risky as well. Outside of being constantly on the verge of breaking the law, you’ll encounter people when they’re at their lowest and most desperate point. This is what makes them unpredictable and even dangerous. This is why the rate of injury/illness in this industry is higher than what you would expect it to be. 

Construction foreman

Previously, we’ve mentioned the construction industry as an underpaid, dangerous field, however, this mostly goes for construction workers. When it comes to being a foreman, the concept of the cost-to-risk ratio can drastically swing in your favor. The paygrade is a lot better, while the risk of injury is substantially smaller. There are actually very well-paid jobs within the construction industry, whether the work location is in warm or cold countries.

Police officer

Becoming a police officer is a dream job for a lot of kids growing up, nonetheless, by the time they reach a certain age, the majority of them are more than fully aware of the dangers of being a cop. Sure, there are numerous benefits and respect that come from being a police officer, other than an above-average paycheck, however, this is one of the fields where your mental health will suffer as much as your physical well-being. It’s not just the risk of getting hurt in the line of duty, it’s also about hearing a story and witnessing things that you won’t be able to forget for years to come. This is why such a career choice is not for everyone.

Professional athlete

Now, let’s move on to the more glamorous side of this list. Professional athletes are a subject of respect and admiration all over the globe, however, with the rate of injuries of 1,542 per 10,000 workers, this is one of the most dangerous professions there is. First of all, while the paycheck is usually above the median, you might not be able to earn figures that you see in the newspapers. Other than this, you’re constantly under physical stress and you’re pushing your body to its limits twice per day on average. Recreational sport is one of the healthiest things you could engage in, while a professional sport is completely opposite. Long after you retire, you might still feel the effects of this lifestyle.

Conclusion

The last thing you need to take into consideration is the fact that not every risk is worth it and sometimes, being able to spend what you’ve earned is what it’s all about. Also, keep in mind that life is full of possibilities and even if you do want to get rich overnight, there are really so many safer options for you to consider. Nonetheless, if you do want something adrenaline-packed to try out, the above-listed five activities should really be your go-to.