Trade jobs offer excellent salaries while requiring specific skills and training rather than academic credentials. Many people don’t realize just how financially rewarding careers in the skilled trades can be.
The highest paying trade jobs can provide annual salaries ranging from $70,000 to over $100,000 with the right experience and certifications.
Trade careers often start with on-the-job training or apprenticeships lasting 2-4 years, where you earn while you learn. This approach allows workers to avoid student loan debt while developing valuable skills that remain in high demand across the country.
The demand for qualified trade workers continues to grow as many experienced professionals reach retirement age. This creates a “skills gap” that needs filling.
Trade jobs typically offer excellent job security. Unlike some positions that can be outsourced, most trade work must be performed locally by trained professionals.
Top-Paying Trade Careers
1. Elevator Mechanics
Elevator mechanics top the list of high-paying trade jobs with median annual wages reaching $97,860. These professionals install, maintain, and repair elevators, escalators, moving walkways, and other people-moving equipment.
To become an elevator mechanic, you typically need to complete a 4-5 year apprenticeship program. Many start by taking mechanical courses at technical schools before applying for apprenticeships sponsored by unions or employers.
Daily responsibilities include:
- Testing safety devices and control systems
- Troubleshooting electrical and mechanical problems
- Reading blueprints and following building codes
- Replacing worn components like cables, doors, and motors
Career advancement might lead to roles as supervisors, inspectors, or project managers. Some elevator mechanics specialize in modernization projects or high-rise installations.
The salary range varies from $64,000 for beginners to over $130,000 for experienced mechanics in major metropolitan areas.
Job security remains strong as buildings continue to require this specialized expertise.
2. Electricians
Electricians earn impressive wages with median annual salaries around $60,040, though experienced professionals in specialized fields can make over $100,000 annually.
The path to becoming an electrician typically begins with a 4-5 year apprenticeship combining classroom instruction with paid on-the-job training. Some states require licensing exams after apprenticeship completion.
Common electrician specializations include:
- Residential electricians (home wiring and repairs)
- Commercial electricians (office buildings and retail spaces)
- Industrial electricians (factories and processing plants)
- Low-voltage specialists (data networks and security systems)
A typical workday might involve reading blueprints, installing electrical systems, troubleshooting problems, and ensuring compliance with safety codes. The work varies greatly depending on specialization.
Career growth opportunities include becoming a master electrician, electrical contractor, or electrical inspector. Many electricians eventually start their own businesses.
The nationwide salary range spans from $37,000 for apprentices to $97,000+ for master electricians in high-demand regions.
3. Plumbers, Pipefitters and Steamfitters
Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters earn substantial incomes with median annual wages of approximately $59,880, with top earners making over $98,000.
Entering this field usually requires completing a 4-5 year apprenticeship program. Technical schools offer pre-apprenticeship training that can give candidates an edge when applying for competitive apprenticeship spots.
Each specialization has different focuses:
- Plumbers typically work in residential and commercial settings installing and repairing water, gas, and waste systems. Their daily tasks might include unclogging drains, fixing leaks, and installing fixtures like toilets and sinks.
- Pipefitters concentrate on high-pressure pipe systems in industrial settings, often working with manufacturing or power generation facilities. They spend their days measuring, cutting, and connecting pipes according to detailed specifications.
- Steamfitters work specifically with high-pressure systems that distribute steam. Their work is common in heating systems and industrial applications.
Career advancement can lead to roles as project managers, estimators, or independent contractors. Experienced professionals often specialize in areas like medical gas systems or water treatment.
Nationwide salaries range from $36,000 for apprentices to $98,000+ for master plumbers in expensive urban areas.
4. Aircraft Mechanics
Aircraft mechanics and service technicians earn solid wages with median annual salaries of approximately $65,550, though specialized roles at major airlines can exceed $100,000.
Becoming an aircraft mechanic typically requires completing an FAA-approved aviation maintenance technician school program lasting 18-24 months. Afterward, mechanics need to pass FAA exams for certification.
Daily responsibilities vary based on specialization:
- Airframe mechanics work on the physical structure of aircraft
- Powerplant mechanics focus on engines and related systems
- Avionics technicians handle electronic navigation and communication systems
A typical workday might involve inspecting aircraft, diagnosing mechanical issues, replacing defective parts, and documenting all maintenance actions. Aircraft mechanics must follow strict safety protocols and manufacturer specifications.
Career growth opportunities include becoming lead mechanics, inspectors, or shop supervisors. Some aircraft mechanics advance to roles in engineering or management.
The salary range nationwide spans from $42,000 for entry-level positions to $110,000+ for specialized mechanics at major airlines or in corporate aviation.
5. Painters and Decorators
Professional painters and decorators earn respectable wages with median annual pay around $45,590, though specialized industrial painters can make significantly more.
Unlike other trades on this list, painters often enter the field through on-the-job training rather than formal apprenticeships. However, union apprenticeship programs lasting 3-4 years do exist and can lead to higher wages.
Different specializations include:
- Residential painters (homes and apartments)
- Commercial painters (offices and retail spaces)
- Industrial painters (bridges, tanks, and industrial equipment)
- Decorative painters (faux finishes, murals, and restoration work)
A typical workday involves preparing surfaces, mixing paints, applying coatings, and cleaning up work areas. Industrial painters may work with specialized equipment like sprayers and from heights using scaffolding.
Career progression might lead to roles as crew leaders, estimators, or independent contractors. Specialized decorative painters can command premium rates for custom work.
The nationwide salary range varies from $30,000 for entry-level positions to $80,000+ for specialized industrial painters working in hazardous environments or at heights.
Emerging Technological Fields
6. Renewable Energy Technicians
Renewable Energy Technicians install and maintain solar panels, wind turbines, and other clean energy systems.
Starting in this field typically requires a certificate program lasting 6-12 months.
Daily work includes equipment installation, testing systems, and troubleshooting problems.
Technicians earn $49,000-$75,000 annually, with solar specialists on the higher end.
7. Drone Operators
Drone Operators use unmanned aerial vehicles for inspections, photography, or deliveries. To enter this field, you need an FAA Part 107 license and possibly specialized training for certain industries.
A typical day might involve flight planning, equipment checks, and data collection.
Salaries range from $45,000 for beginners to $85,000 for experienced operators in specialized fields.
8. 3D Printing Specialists
3D Printing Specialists create products using additive manufacturing technology.
Most start with a technical certificate or associate degree. Their workday includes preparing digital files, maintaining equipment, and finishing printed items.
Entry-level positions pay around $42,000 while senior specialists can earn up to $90,000.
9. Automation Technicians
Automation Technicians install and maintain automated systems in factories.
This role usually requires an associate degree in robotics or a related field.
Daily tasks involve programming, troubleshooting, and updating systems.
Salaries typically range from $55,000 to $95,000 depending on experience and industry.
10. Cybersecurity Technicians
Cybersecurity Technicians protect computer networks and systems. They monitor networks, respond to alerts, and update security protocols daily.
You can start with certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CISSP.
Pay ranges from $60,000 to over $100,000 for those with advanced skills.
In-Demand Trade Jobs
11. Construction
Construction and extraction jobs form the backbone of infrastructure development.
To enter this field, you typically need a high school diploma followed by an apprenticeship or vocational training.
- Carpenters build structures from wood and other materials. Their responsibilities include measuring, cutting, and assembling materials according to plans. Experienced carpenters can advance to become project managers or start their own businesses.
- Construction Managers oversee building projects from start to finish. They coordinate workers, manage budgets, and ensure projects meet deadlines.
Salary ranges span from $45,000 for entry-level positions to over $100,000 for experienced professionals like construction managers.
12. Installation, Maintenance and Repair
These trades focus on keeping equipment and systems running smoothly.
Most positions require technical school certificates or apprenticeships.
- HVAC Technicians install and repair heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Their daily work includes performing maintenance checks, replacing parts, and ensuring systems operate efficiently. HVAC techs often work in different locations each day.
- Elevator Installers and Repairers work on lifting systems in buildings. Their workday might involve testing electrical components, adjusting mechanical parts, and ensuring safety systems function correctly. This specialty requires rigorous safety training.
- Automotive Service Technicians diagnose and repair vehicle issues. Daily tasks include performing routine maintenance, troubleshooting mechanical problems, and communicating with customers about repairs.
Salaries range from $40,000 to $90,000, with elevator technicians among the highest paid in this category.
Career advancement often comes through specialization or moving into management roles.
13. Manufacturing and Industrial
Manufacturing jobs create the products we use daily. Entry pathways typically include technical training or apprenticeships.
- Machinists operate precision equipment to create metal parts. Their day includes setting up machines, monitoring production runs, and inspecting finished components for quality. Advanced computer skills help with programming automated equipment.
- Welders join metal components using specialized equipment. Daily tasks involve reading blueprints, preparing materials, and applying various welding techniques to create strong joints. Specialized certifications increase earning potential.
- Industrial Machinery Mechanics maintain and repair factory equipment. Their workday involves conducting preventive maintenance, diagnosing breakdowns, and making repairs to minimize production downtime.
Career growth opportunities include becoming a team leader, quality control specialist, or moving into manufacturing management.
Salaries typically range from $38,000 for entry-level positions to $75,000+ for specialized roles and experienced workers.
14. Energy and Utilities
The energy sector offers stable employment with strong benefits. Most positions require technical training and certification.
- Wind Turbine Technicians maintain wind power generation equipment. Their daily responsibilities include climbing turbines, inspecting mechanical components, and performing repairs at heights. This growing renewable energy field offers excellent job security.
- Power Line Installers work on electricity distribution systems. A typical day involves climbing poles, installing or replacing lines, and responding to outages. Safety training is extensive due to hazards associated with high voltage.
- Solar Installers set up photovoltaic systems on buildings. Daily tasks include mounting panels, connecting electrical components, and testing systems. Technical school training focused on renewable energy systems provides the necessary skills.
Career advancement often involves specialization in system design or moving into management.
Salaries range from $45,000 to $95,000, with power line workers typically earning the highest wages in this category.
15. Transportation and Aviation
- Commercial Pilots fly aircraft for various purposes beyond passenger airlines. Their day includes performing pre-flight checks, navigating aircraft, and ensuring passenger safety. Training involves flight school and accumulating flight hours for certification.
- Aircraft Mechanics maintain and repair planes. Daily responsibilities include inspecting components, replacing parts, and documenting all maintenance work. FAA certification is required through technical school programs.
- Railroad Workers operate and maintain trains and tracks. Their workday might involve controlling train movements, inspecting equipment, or repairing rail infrastructure.
- Truck Drivers transport goods across the country. Daily activities include vehicle inspections, loading supervision, and maintaining driving logs. Commercial driver’s license (CDL) training is the primary entry requirement.
Career progression might involve moving to specialized routes, equipment, or management roles.
Salaries range from $45,000 for entry-level positions to $110,000+ for experienced commercial pilots.