Thinking about turning your DIY skills into a paycheck?
We’ve compiled a list of the best jobs for DIY enthusiasts. If you’re the kind of person who loves rolling up your sleeves and creating something from scratch, this list is your treasure map to a fulfilling career.
What Makes a Good Job for DIY Enthusiasts?
We looked for jobs that:
- Allow for hands-on involvement in projects
- Offer a blend of creative and technical tasks
- Provide opportunities for skill development in multiple areas
- Encourage problem-solving and innovative thinking
- Have a balance between solitary and collaborative work
Best Jobs for DIY Enthusiasts
You don’t always need a formal degree to make a good living if you’re a DIY enthusiast. Many of the jobs on this list pay well and value your skills and certifications more than a framed diploma.
Alright, let’s jump right into our list of top job picks for DIY enthusiasts.
1. Special Effects Artist
Average salary: $65,087
A Special Effects Artist creates visual effects and illusions for movies, TV shows, or stage productions. Also known as a VFX Artist.
Job duties:
- Designing digital effects
- Creating miniatures for scenes
- Working with makeup artists
- Programming computer-generated imagery (CGI)
- Coordinating with directors on visual concepts
- Implementing practical effects on set
- Finalizing visual elements in post-production
Job requirements:
- Portfolio showcasing visual effects work
- Proficiency in VFX software like After Effects, Nuke
- Basic understanding of cameras and lenses
- Strong attention to detail
- Good teamwork skills
- Able to work under tight deadlines
2. Museum Exhibit Designer
Average salary: $58,653
Museum Exhibit Designer plans and sets up exhibitions in museums or galleries.
Job duties:
- Designing exhibit layout
- Selecting display items
- Collaborating with curators
- Assembling installations
- Overseeing lighting and display setups
- Managing contractors for large installations
Job requirements:
- Experience in CAD software
- Strong visual and spatial awareness
- Good communication skills
- Able to work on multiple projects
- Comfortable working with hand tools for setup
3. Toy Designer
Average salary: $58,168
A Toy Designer creates toys that are both fun and educational. Sometimes referred to as a Play Designer in specialized fields.
Job duties:
- Sketching toy concepts
- Selecting materials
- Creating prototypes
- Conducting playtests
- Coordinating with manufacturers
- Adjusting designs based on feedback
- Overseeing production stages
Job requirements:
- Portfolio of relevant design work
- Proficiency in 3D modeling software
- Basic understanding of child psychology
- Adept at sketching and prototyping
- Good communication skills
- Able to work under deadlines
4. Set Designer
Average salary: $55,097
A Set Designer plans, designs, and oversees the construction of sets for TV, films, and theater.
Job duties:
- Reading scripts for design cues
- Drafting set layouts
- Selecting materials for construction
- Overseeing set building
- Coordinating with lighting and sound teams
- Managing budget for set design
- Dismantling sets post-production
Job requirements:
- Experience with CAD or other design software
- Basic carpentry skills
- Attention to detail
- Ability to work with different departments
- Good multitasking abilities
5. Wind Turbine Technician
Average salary: $54,862
A Wind Turbine Technician maintains and repairs wind turbines to optimize performance. Sometimes known as Wind Techs.
Job duties:
- Inspecting turbines
- Troubleshooting issues
- Replacing parts
- Running diagnostics
- Calibrating systems
- Conducting safety checks
- Reporting on maintenance
Job requirements:
- Certificate from technical school in wind energy or related field
- Basic electrical and mechanical skills
- Comfortable with heights
- Ability to read schematics
- Good problem-solving skills
- Basic computer skills
6. Millwright
Average salary: $56,040
A Millwright installs, maintains, and repairs industrial machinery. Also referred to as Industrial Mechanics in some sectors.
Job duties:
- Reading blueprints
- Assembling machinery
- Installing equipment
- Conducting inspections
- Adjusting parts
- Performing preventive maintenance
- Dismantling machinery for repairs
Job requirements:
- High school diploma and apprenticeship
- Familiarity with industrial equipment
- Welding skills
- Basic math skills
- Handy with tools
- Detail-oriented
- Ability to work in a team setting
7. Prop Master
Average salary: $100,578
A Prop Master is responsible for obtaining and managing all the props used in a production. Also called a Property Master or Props Supervisor.
Job duties:
- Reading scripts
- Sourcing props
- Creating custom items
- Organizing storage
- Managing budgets
- Coordinating with directors
- Tracking inventory
Job requirements:
- Previous experience in stage or film production
- Good organizational skills
- Creative problem-solving skills
- Basic woodworking or crafting skills
- Ability to work under tight deadlines
8. Boat Builder
Average salary: $60,171
A Boat Builder constructs and repairs boats, sometimes going by the title of Marine Carpenter or Shipwright.
Job duties:
- Reading blueprints
- Cutting materials
- Assembling hulls
- Installing hardware
- Painting surfaces
- Inspecting work
- Making repairs
Job requirements:
- Vocational training in boat building or carpentry
- Previous experience in woodworking
- Familiarity with boat design
- Basic math skills
- Ability to use power tools
- Strong hand-eye coordination
- Time management skills
9. Furniture Restorer
Average salary: $44,965
A Furniture Restorer revives old or damaged furniture, also known as a Furniture Refinisher or Restoration Specialist.
Job duties:
- Assessing damage
- Removing finishes
- Repairing parts
- Sanding surfaces
- Applying stains
- Polishing final piece
- Documenting work
Job requirements:
- Vocational training in furniture restoration or related field
- Previous woodworking or carpentry experience
- Skill in using hand tools
- Basic chemistry knowledge for mixing solvents
- Attention to detail
- Patience for intricate tasks
- Good judgment for historical accuracy
10. Carpenter
Average salary: $47,840
A Carpenter builds and repairs wooden structures, often called a Journeyman Carpenter or Framing Carpenter when specialized.
Job duties:
- Reading blueprints
- Measuring wood
- Cutting pieces
- Assembling structures
- Fixing defects
- Installing hardware
- Painting or staining
Job requirements:
- Prior carpentry experience
- Blueprint reading ability
- Measuring and math skills
- Skill in using power tools
- Physical stamina
- Good balance and coordination
11. Locksmith
Average salary: $51,999
A Locksmith installs and repairs locks, and can be known as a Master Locksmith or Security Professional.
Job duties:
- Cutting keys
- Installing locks
- Repairing locks
- Opening locks
- Updating security systems
- Consulting clients
- Handling emergencies
Job requirements:
- State licensure or certification
- Prior locksmith or mechanical experience
- Familiarity with lock types
- Skill with hand tools
- Quick problem-solving ability
- Attention to detail
- Strong customer service skills
12. Solar Installer
Average salary: $78,666
A Solar Installer sets up and maintains solar panels, sometimes known as a Solar Panel Installer or Solar Technician.
Job duties:
- Assessing sites
- Reading schematics
- Installing panels
- Wiring systems
- Configuring inverters
- Conducting tests
- Handling maintenance
Job requirements:
- Electrical license or certification
- Previous experience with solar systems
- Basic construction skills
- Basic electrical skills
- Comfortable working at heights
- Good problem-solving abilities
- Safety-conscious approach
13. Stagehand
Average salary: $39,082
A Stagehand sets up and breaks down stage equipment, also referred to as a Stage Technician or Stage Crew Member.
Job duties:
- Loading gear
- Assembling sets
- Rigging lights
- Running cables
- Managing props
- Assisting performers
- Tearing down sets
Job requirements:
- Prior stage or event experience
- Knowledge of basic tools
- Physical strength
- Teamwork skills
- Quick reflexes
- Adaptable to a fast-paced environment
See, There Are Careers for DIY Enthusiasts!
From Toy Designer to Stagehand, this list brings you a wide range of intriguing careers that let you put your DIY skills to work.
Feeling inspired? Let us know which job you’re itching to try in the comments below.