2011 was not a strong year for jobs anyway, but if you were employed in one of these professions, it may have been an even tougher year. Here’s a list of some of the worst jobs in 2011, rated by the quality of the work environment, average annual income, stress associated with job, physical demands, and the overall career outlook. 

Construction Worker

The average income of a construction worker is $30,000 per year. Yikes that’s closing  in  on the poverty line. And, these are the men and women responsible for building our nation’s infrastructure. There’s a huge physical demand and the work takes its tole, causing injuries and work related stresses. However, this is one career with a promising future.

Meter Reader

Meter readers make on average of $34,000 a year. They are constantly on their feet, making this a physically demanding job that is not worth the energy or money. Also, the job outlook is dismal as new technology moves in to perform once done by man. 

Painter

There are so many health risks associated with this career, with an average income of $34,000 its not worth it. It must be the inhalation of toxic fumes that keep these people working everyday in the elements, painting our houses for sometimes less than minimum wage. 

Emergency Medical Technicians

This career demands a high set of technical training and skills which usually translates in a high income. However, on average, EMTs are paid around $30,000 a year yet required to work in one of the highest stress environments in America. They work long hours and the job is often physically taxing.

Lumberjacks

Yes this is still a career, and a dismal one at that. Loggers are required to work in the elements despite the seasons. They earn on average $32,000 a year and there is a high risk factor with the work they perform. Also, the career outlook may begin to decrease soon, once again due to   new advances in technology that make human abilities obsolete.