The 10 Most Dangerous Jobs In Idaho Aren’t What You’d Think

Certain risky jobs come with perks.

For some, taking on a hazardous job would be daunting. For others, the perks make a dangerous profession worthwhile. We hate to sound stereotypical, but for many folks, money is king. More often than not, dangerous jobs are associated with higher pay to compensate for the increase in risk.

Firemen, electric linemen, crab fishers, cargo pilots, commercial truckers, and loggers—the substantial income potential in these fields is a powerful draw.

Sometimes, the reward is worth the risk.

Beyond the money and benefits, some hazardous jobs have a profound impact on the world.

Firefighters, for example, search and rescue teams, nuclear engineers and technicians, and registered nurses--these workers face immense risks and sometimes even compromise their own safety to make our communities safer, healthier, more connected, etc.

They're saving lives, protecting our loved ones and homes, and preserving the environment we share and depend on. Many of these folks are fulfilled by a sense of purpose. The idea that their efforts and dedication make a difference outshines the compensation.

Risky jobs can be thrilling.

Some people are drawn to the adrenaline rush and excitement of risky jobs. The unpredictability is exhilarating. It keeps them sharp, engaged, and entertained.

From deep-sea divers to tornado chasers, the thrill of the unknown and the challenge of beating the odds is sexy. These are men and women who thrive living on the edge. There's something satisfying about their frequent brushes with danger and death.

Then there are the unexpected hazardous jobs.

Not all hazardous jobs are what you think. Sanitation workers, for example, face serious risks on a regular basis that often go unacknowledged.

Think about it: handling dangerous materials and fluids, operating heavy machinery, and braving severe weather conditions can make many jobs more dangerous than a lot of us might imagine.

It's an important reminder that danger can lurk in the most unexpected workplaces, like several jobs featured in the gallery below.

Scroll for...

• A look at the 10 of Idaho's most dangerous jobs

• 21 of the dirtiest, most thankless jobs in the Gem State

• The 21 highest-paying jobs in Idaho that don't require a college