The 7 Most Stressful Jobs (With Salaries) [2026]

Stress is an inevitable part of nearly every job, but certain positions are significantly more taxing than others. Understanding the stress levels associated with a potential job should be a priority before submitting an application.

If you’re ready to take on a challenging role and thrive under pressure, you’ve come to the right place. Below, we’ve outlined seven of the most stressful jobs in 2026, along with insights into why they can be demanding. Additionally, we will share tips for managing stress in these high-pressure roles.

Key Takeaways:

• The three most stressful jobs are head chef, paramedic, and emergency room nurse.

• Long hours and challenging work environments are significant contributors to job stress.

• To effectively manage stress, staying organized and making time for personal activities is crucial.

The 7 Most Stressful Jobs

While every profession can induce stress, some jobs are inherently more stressful than others. In 2026, the seven most stressful jobs are outlined below.

1. Head Chef

   Average Annual Salary: $48,000

   Why It’s Stressful: Long hours, immense responsibility, a fast-paced environment, and low job security.

   The role of a head chef is far from relaxed, especially in bustling restaurants filled with celebratory patrons. This position requires managing a diverse team, ensuring food safety, and delivering an exceptional dining experience—all while navigating the pressures of the kitchen.

   Job responsibilities of a head chef include:

   • Designing and maintaining a menu that aligns with the restaurant’s vision
   • Overseeing food preparation and adhering to safety regulations
   • Finishing dishes prepared by kitchen staff
   • Managing kitchen inventory and equipment
   • Hiring and supervising kitchen personnel
   • Addressing kitchen issues as they arise
   • Communicating effectively with a wide range of staff

   Find Head Chef jobs near me

2. Paramedic

   Average Annual Salary: $47,000

   Why It’s Stressful: Life-or-death situations and long hours.

   Paramedics play a critical role in emergency medical services, often making life-saving decisions under extreme pressure. The emotional and physical toll of transporting patients while providing care can be substantial.

   Job responsibilities of a paramedic include:

   • Responding to emergency calls promptly
   • Coordinating with a team to manage medical emergencies
   • Administering care at the scene and during transport
   • Using medical equipment to stabilize patients
   • Documenting medical incidents accurately

   Find Paramedic jobs near me

3. Emergency Room Nurse

   Average Annual Salary: $85,000

   Why It’s Stressful: High-pressure environment, demanding workload, and 12+ hour shifts.

   Emergency room nurses are essential in acute care settings, faced with unpredictable challenges and high-stakes situations. Their ability to think quickly and respond to a variety of medical emergencies is critical.

   Job responsibilities of an emergency room nurse include:

   • Assessing patients quickly and accurately
   • Providing treatment for various urgent medical conditions
   • Performing diagnostic tests and procedures
   • Assisting in minor surgeries
   • Maintaining composure in chaotic situations

   Find Emergency Room Nurse jobs near me

4. Correction Officer

   Average Annual Salary: $45,000

   Why It’s Stressful: Potentially dangerous environment and significant responsibility.

   Correction officers work in highly charged environments, managing inmates and maintaining safety in correctional facilities. The role demands constant vigilance and preparedness to handle crises.

   Job responsibilities of a correction officer include:

   • Enforcing prison regulations and protocols
   • Conducting searches for contraband
   • Overseeing inmate activities
   • Managing visitor interactions
   • Documenting inmate behavior

   Find Correction Officer jobs near me

5. Bartender

   Average Annual Salary: $30,000

   Why It’s Stressful: Fast-paced environment, demanding customers, and inconsistent job security.

   Bartenders face the challenge of serving a bustling clientele, often in noisy and chaotic settings. The ability to multitask and manage difficult patrons is vital to success.

   Job responsibilities of a bartender include:

   • Taking accurate drink orders
   • Preparing a variety of beverages efficiently
   • Advising patrons on drink selections
   • Ensuring compliance with legal drinking age
   • Restocking supplies as needed

   Find Bartender jobs near me

6. Event Planner

   Average Annual Salary: $55,000

   Why It’s Stressful: High expectations from clients, heavy workloads, and unpredictable schedules.

   Event planners are tasked with executing flawless events, which can lead to high stress levels, especially when dealing with demanding clients.

   Job responsibilities of an event planner include:

   • Consulting with clients to outline event goals
   • Managing budgets and resources
   • Coordinating logistics, including venues and vendors
   • Overseeing events to ensure success
   • Resolving issues as they arise during events

   Find Event Planner jobs near me

7. Logging Worker

   Average Annual Salary: $32,000

   Why It’s Stressful: Physically demanding and dangerous work conditions.

   Logging workers face numerous risks while performing their jobs, including heavy machinery operation and the potential for serious injuries.

   Job responsibilities of a logging worker include:

   • Safely preparing trees for cutting
   • Operating machinery for logging
   • Transporting logs efficiently
   • Conducting equipment safety checks

   Find Logging Worker jobs near me

Qualities That Make a Job Stressful

Various factors contribute to job-related stress. Here are some common aspects that can cause stress in the workplace:

1. Long Hours or Shifts: Regardless of dedication to a job, long hours can lead to burnout and increased stress levels.

2. Challenging Environments: High-pressure settings, such as emergency rooms or correctional facilities, can cause significant stress for employees.

3. Heavy Workload: Roles that demand significant time and effort beyond regular hours can lead to a constant state of stress.

4. Low Job Security: The uncertainty of job stability can lead to heightened anxiety and stress levels for employees.

Tips for Dealing with a Stressful Job

Even if you aren’t in one of the most stressful roles, work-related stress is still common. Here are five tips to help manage stress:

1. Stay Organized: Keeping your tasks and responsibilities organized can help alleviate the pressures of a demanding job.

2. Prioritize Work-Life Balance: Make time for personal activities that help you unwind outside of work to manage stress effectively.

3. Choose Tolerable Stressors: Identify the type of stress you can manage. Some thrive in fast-paced environments, while others prefer more structured roles.

4. Maintain Perspective: Separate work stress from personal life to preserve mental well-being.

Most Stressful Jobs FAQ

1. What jobs are the hardest on the body?

   The hardest jobs on the body include:

   • Farmer
   • Stonemason
   • Boxer
   • Chef
   • Dancer
   • Logger

   These professions are physically demanding and often require intense labor and endurance.

2. What is the most underpaid profession?

   The most underpaid profession is Army Private First Class, with an average salary ranging from $20,000 to $25,000. Even after decades of service, their maximum pay remains low compared to the responsibilities they shoulder.

3. What jobs work the most hours?

   Jobs with the longest hours include hospital staff, long-haul truck drivers, and executives. These roles typically involve workweeks exceeding 40 hours, often impacting personal life.

4. What jobs keep you away from home?

   Jobs that often require being away from home include cruise ship workers, travel nurses, pilots, and military personnel. These roles can provide fulfillment and financial stability despite the distance from home.

Author

Sky Ariella

Sky Ariella is a professional freelance writer, originally from New York. She has been featured on websites and online magazines covering topics in career, travel, and lifestyle. She received her BA in psychology from Hunter College.