10 Worst-Paying Jobs in America

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A civilian kitchen worker washes plates at the Riptide Dining Facility at Hurlburt Field, Florida.
Mario Borgonos, a civilian kitchen worker with the 1st Special Operations Force Support Squadron, washes plates at the Riptide Dining Facility at Hurlburt Field, Florida, May 23, 2018. (Airman 1st Class Ronald Feliciano Rivera/U.S. Air Force photo)

Serving in the military provides a great number of lessons, and many of them can help service members during their transition, especially a difficult one.

Although the civilian world appears boundless and unrestricted compared to the rigid structure of the military, maintaining an objective-focused approach to transitioning will help keep you on track during a period of turbulence.

If you find yourself experiencing financial difficulty, you may need to find the first job that's available. Unfortunately, there are all too many jobs that don't provide a good standard of living.

Forbes collected a list of the 10 worst-paying jobs in America, and most of them are in the food service industry. If you find yourself in any of these positions during your transition, it's important to understand exactly what you'll be earning and what you can do to move on.

Remember that the first step to financial success is balancing your expenses with your income. Figure out what you can afford on the salary you're likely to earn; a job interview is not the appropriate time to figure out how much you'll be making.

1. Fast-Food Cook

Average Annual Salary: $18,870

2. Food Preparation and Serving Worker

Average Annual Salary: $18,880

3. Shampooer

Average Annual Salary: $18,910

4. Dishwasher

Average Annual Salary: $19,180

5. Cafeteria and Coffee Shop Counter Attendant

Average Annual Salary: $19,650

6. Restaurant, Lounge and Coffee Shop Host

Average Annual Salary: $19,670

7. Dining Room Attendant and Cafeteria Helper

Average Annual Salary: $19,940

8. Farmworker and Laborer

Average Annual Salary: $20,080

9. Amusement and Recreation Attendant

Average Annual Salary: $20,310

10. Usher, Lobby Attendant, Ticket Taker

Average Annual Salary: $20,370

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