Are you thinking of a career change and considering high-paying skilled worker jobs?
Every year, there are over 9 million job openings in the trade industry. And you will be hard-pressed to know just how much you can earn for your labor.
With so much variety in job options in the trade industry, it can be hard to know where to look. But we have researched, so you don’t have to.
Are you interested in finding out what the highest-paying trade jobs are? Then read on.
HVAC Technicians
HVAC technicians are in high demand due to the ever-growing need for energy efficiency. They are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
HVAC technicians, on average, make $25.72 per hour, or $53,480 per year. The top 10 percent of HVAC technicians make more than $36.54 per hour or $76,010 per year.
The bottom 10 percent of HVAC technicians make less than $16.90 per hour or $35,180 per year. The best way to become an HVAC technician is to complete an accredited training program and get experience in the field.
Electricians
Electricians are responsible for the installation and repair of electrical systems in both residential and commercial buildings.
They must have a detailed understanding of how electrical systems work to safely and effectively carry out their jobs. Electricians typically receive on-the-job training from experienced masters or journeyman electricians.
Some also receive formal training through apprenticeship programs or technical schools. Electricians typically earn an hourly wage but may receive overtime pay or special compensation for working in hazardous conditions or on-call hours.
With an electrician’s median salary being $51,880 per year and the top 10% of earners making over $85,000 annually, it’s no wonder why this career is so popular. Electricians are in high demand due to the need for new construction and remodeling projects.
As our society continues to grow and evolve, so will the need to recruit tradesmen, such as these electricians.
Plumbers
Plumbing is one of the most popular trade careers that is available. This is because plumbing is a necessary skill in many different areas.
Plumbing is a trade that requires the ability to install and repair pipes and fixtures. Plumbers can find work in various industries, including construction, residential, and commercial.
There are many things that a plumber must learn to be successful in this field. They must know how to read and understand blueprints, install and repair piping, and troubleshoot various plumbing problems.
With the right training and experience, a plumber can easily become a master plumber and earn a significantly higher wage. Many plumbers are self-employed and can make a very good living by doing so.
Plumbers are typically paid by the hour and may also be paid a salary. The median annual salary for a plumber is $51,000.
Carpenters
Carpenters are a skilled worker who build and repair structures made of wood, including houses, cabinets, and other wooden objects.
Carpenters are among the most in-demand trades, and their skills are highly sought-after by residential and commercial construction firms. As a result, carpenters can command a higher salary than in many other trades.
With the right experience and training, carpenters can earn a very good living. They can even move into management and supervisory positions. Though, many carpenters also learn their trade through apprenticeship programs.
The average carpenter earns $21.64 per hour or $45,160 per year. The top 10% of carpenters earn more than $29.62 per hour or $61,580 per year.
Carpenters are essential to the workforce, and their skills are always in demand. Carpentry is a great option if you’re looking for a high-paying trade job.
Linemans
Being a lineman is a physically demanding job that requires a lot of training and experience. Lineman work on power lines, telephone lines, and other electrical equipment.
A lineman is employed by electric companies, telephone companies, and other businesses. Most linemen work full-time. Some linemen work on call and are on call 24 hours a day.
With an annual median salary of $81,330, a lineman is certainly not a job to be taken lightly. Plus, with a job outlook of 9% growth from 2019 to 2029, there’s no doubt that this career is on the rise.
The top 10 percent of linemen earn more than $135,430 per year. Lineman work long hours, often in inclement weather.
Construction Managers
Construction managers are responsible for overseeing and coordinating construction projects. They plan, direct, and coordinate construction workers’ activities.
Construction managers typically have a bachelor’s degree in construction science, civil engineering, or a related field. Many construction managers also have experience working in the construction industry as construction workers, superintendents, or project engineers.
They earn a median salary of $96,400. In contrast, those with a master’s degree and ten or more years of experience earn a median salary of $131,600. In addition, some construction managers may earn bonuses or commissions based on the successful completion of projects.
Aircraft Mechanics
An aircraft mechanic is responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of aircraft. This can involve anything from scheduled repairs to emergency repairs.
Aircraft mechanics usually have extensive knowledge of aviation and can troubleshoot issues quickly. They are required to have a valid pilot’s license and pass a written exam. Many employers also require aircraft mechanics to have two years of experience.
Aircraft mechanics typically earn a salary of $30,000 to $50,000 per year, with the top 10 percent earning an average of $70,000 per year.
Dental Hygienists
Dental hygienists use their skills and training to clean teeth and provide other preventive dental care to patients. They typically work in dental offices and clinics under the supervision of a licensed dentist. In some states, they may also administer local anesthesia and perform other dental procedures.
The American Dental Association (ADA) reports that the average salary for dental hygienists in the United States is $74,070 annually. The ADA also reports that the median salary for dental hygienists is $72,330 per year.
The highest 10 percent earned more than $100,000, and the lowest 10 percent earned less than $51,180.
Dental hygienists typically need an associate’s degree in dental hygiene. They must also pass a written and practical exam to earn their license.
Other Trade Jobs You Should Consider
The growing demand for qualified tradespeople means plenty of well-paying jobs available in the trades.
There are many other high-paying trade school jobs available for those willing to put in the work. These jobs include boilermakers, landscape designers, therapists, and millwrights.
Consider one of the many high-paying trade jobs if you’re thinking of a career change. With the right training and experience, you could earn a great living in a field you’re passionate about.
If you need more guidance on your career as a trade professional, check out the rest of our blog.
