Active Jobs That Pay Well & Get You Away from a Desk
Sitting at a desk for eight hours a day is not for everyone. If you crave movement, excitement, and a career that keeps you active while still offering excellent pay, then you’re in the right place. Many jobs not only help you stay fit but also provide lucrative earning opportunities. Below, we explore some of the best active jobs that pay well and get you away from a desk.
1. Personal Trainer
A personal trainer is one of the most rewarding careers for those who enjoy fitness and helping others reach their health goals. Personal trainers work in gyms, private studios, or even outdoors, conducting one-on-one sessions or group classes.
Why It Pays Well
- Trainers can earn an average of £25,000 to £60,000 per year, depending on experience and clientele.
- High-end or celebrity trainers can command much higher rates.
- Opportunities for additional income through online coaching, meal planning, and specialized fitness programs.
If you're looking for part-time PT jobs in Exeter, this resource provides excellent opportunities to start your career in fitness.
2. Firefighter
Firefighters are among the most respected professionals, and their job is both physically demanding and well-compensated. It requires strength, endurance, and courage.
Why It Pays Well
- UK firefighters start with a salary of £24,000 to £32,000, which can increase to over £40,000 with experience.
- Pension plans, overtime pay, and hazard bonuses add to the earnings.
- Opportunities for career advancement into fire investigation, emergency planning, or training roles.
3. Commercial Diver
If you love water and adventure, a career as a commercial diver may be perfect for you. Divers work in underwater construction, ship maintenance, oil rig repairs, and even underwater welding.
Why It Pays Well
- Salaries range from £30,000 to £80,000 per year, depending on specialization and experience.
- Deep-sea and saturation divers can earn over £1,000 per day.
- Travel opportunities and contracts with top engineering firms.
4. Police Officer
A police officer has a fast-paced, active job that involves patrolling, responding to emergencies, and enforcing laws.
Why It Pays Well
- Starting salaries range from £27,000 to £40,000, with increases based on rank and experience.
- Overtime pay, bonuses, and retirement benefits make this a stable and rewarding career.
- Special units like K9, SWAT, or forensic investigation offer additional earning potential.
5. Construction Worker
The construction industry offers multiple active roles, from bricklaying to carpentry and site management.
Why It Pays Well
- Salaries vary but can range from £30,000 to £60,000 per year, with higher pay for skilled roles.
- Self-employed contractors can set their own rates.
- High demand in residential and commercial building projects ensures job security.
6. Paramedic
A paramedic plays a crucial role in emergency medical response. This job involves lifting patients, running to accident scenes, and working under pressure.
Why It Pays Well
- Salaries range from £25,000 to £45,000 depending on experience.
- High demand for paramedics ensures stable employment.
- Additional training in critical care or aviation medicine can lead to even higher earnings.
7. Electrician
An electrician is a high-paying skilled trade that requires physical activity, from installing wiring to repairing electrical systems.
Why It Pays Well
- Salaries range from £35,000 to £70,000 per year.
- Self-employed electricians can charge premium rates.
- Growth opportunities in smart home technology and renewable energy.
8. Tree Surgeon (Arborist)
A tree surgeon, also known as an arborist, works outdoors climbing trees, cutting branches, and maintaining landscapes.
Why It Pays Well
- Salaries start at £25,000 and can go up to £50,000 for experienced arborists.
- Freelance arborists can charge high rates for specialized tree care.
- High demand due to urban tree maintenance and environmental projects.
9. Outdoor Adventure Guide
If you love hiking, climbing, kayaking, or adventure sports, becoming an outdoor adventure guide can be an exciting and lucrative career.
Why It Pays Well
- Earnings range from £20,000 to £50,000 per year, depending on the activity and location.
- Opportunities for international travel and leading exclusive tours.
- Niche specializations (e.g., mountaineering, scuba diving, extreme sports) offer premium pay.
10. Professional Athlete or Sports Coach
A career in sports, whether as a player or a coach, is physically demanding but highly rewarding.
Why It Pays Well
- Professional athletes can earn £50,000 to millions per year.
- Coaches at elite levels can earn £40,000 to £100,000 per year.
- Sponsorships, endorsements, and media opportunities add to the income.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a high-paying active job that keeps you away from a desk, the options above provide excellent opportunities for career growth and financial stability. Whether you prefer fitness, emergency services, skilled trades, or outdoor adventures, these careers can keep you physically engaged while ensuring a rewarding income.
