What are some of the best trades to learn that pay well? Some of the best trade jobs that pay well include construction manager, elevator repairer, radiation therapist, and nuclear medicine technologist. Construction managers earn a median annual salary of $97,180 and have a strong job outlook.
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Many people think they need a college degree to find a rewarding and lucrative career. However, the skilled trades offer in-demand and well-paying opportunities that do not require a bachelor's. Trade school also takes significantly less time and money to complete than a traditional four-year program.
Vocational programs prepare students for many high-paying trade careers, including construction management, electrical and electronic engineering, boilermaking, and radiation therapy.
This page includes our list of the highest-paying trade jobs based on salary and career outlook projections from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). We also discuss different trade school careers, suggest ways to find the best-paying trade jobs, and cover the best trades to learn.
The Highest-Paid Trade Jobs
This guide includes a ranked list of the 10 highest-paying trade jobs. Our methodology considers current BLS projections for median annual salaries and job growth for the most popular trade careers.
1. Construction Managers
Required Education: Associate degree (minimum)
Job Outlook (2019-29): +8%
Median Annual Salary: $97,180
One of the highest-paying trade jobs, construction managers supervise public, commercial, residential, and industrial construction projects. Also called project managers and general contractors, they oversee projects from start to end. Their responsibilities include preparing estimates, scheduling subcontractors, responding to problems, and reporting to clients. Construction management requires business, leadership, technical, and communication skills.
Many construction managers are self-employed, with the rest working in the residential building, nonresidential building, and heavy and civil engineering construction industries. Construction management trade school prepares graduates to manage construction workers, prepare budgets, and understand blueprints and other technical documents.
Construction managers need at least an associate degree and on-the-job training. They can boost their earning potential and work on larger projects by completing a bachelor's. Obtaining a professional certification from the American Institute of Contractors or the Construction Management Association of America can also improve job prospects. Some states require construction managers to hold a license.
2. Elevator and Escalator Installers and Repairers
Required Education: High school diploma or equivalent (minimum)
Job Outlook (2019-29): +7%
Median Annual Salary: $88,540
Elevator and escalator installers and repairers fix, maintain, and install escalators and elevators. Job duties include reading blueprints, replacing faulty parts, testing equipment, and conducting safety inspections. These professionals usually specialize in repair, installation, or maintenance work. They need mechanical and troubleshooting skills, physical strength and stamina, and the ability to work at heights.
These careers often start with a four-year apprenticeship with a union, employer, or industry group. Apprentices learn about blueprint reading, electrical theory, elevator and escalator parts, and safety. Most states require elevator and escalator installers and repairers to hold a license. They also need ongoing training to keep abreast of industry technology changes.
Earning a professional certification through the National Association of Elevator Contractors or the National Association of Elevator Safety Authorities International may lead to career advancement.
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3. Radiation Therapists
Required Education: Associate degree
Job Outlook (2019-29): +7%
Median Annual Salary: $86,850
Radiation therapists provide radiation therapy to patients with cancer and other diseases. They explain treatment plans, use machines to treat patients, keep treatment records, and monitor patients for adverse reactions. Radiation therapists work in hospitals, physicians' offices, and outpatient care centers. They need technical and interpersonal skills, physical stamina, and close attention to detail.
In trade school, students learn about pathology, treatment planning, oncology, and radiation physics. Radiation therapy associate programs teach students how to operate medical machinery, including hands-on experience in clinical settings.
Ranking among the highest-paid trade jobs, radiation therapists need a license in most states. To earn a license, they must graduate from an accredited radiation therapy program and pass a national certification exam. Radiation therapists can advance by completing certification and additional education to become medical dosimetrists who calculate radiation doses for cancer patients.
4. Nuclear Medicine Technologists
Required Education: Associate degree
Job Outlook (2019-29): +5%
Median Annual Salary: $79,590
Nuclear medicine technologists work in hospitals, physicians' offices, medical labs, and outpatient care centers. They also support physicians in preparing and administering radiopharmaceutical drugs. Job duties also include explaining procedures to patients, operating imaging equipment, keeping patient records, and maintaining safety standards.
Nuclear medicine technology students gain laboratory, clinical, and academic experience in trade school. They learn about regulatory compliance, radiation protection standards, and the preparation and administration of radioactive drugs. Nuclear medicine technologists follow safety procedures and use personal protective equipment to prevent accidental radiation exposure.
Although the field requires an associate degree at a minimum, many nuclear medicine technologists earn a bachelor's. Some employers require graduation from a program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Educational Programs in Nuclear Medicine Technology. Most nuclear medicine technologists pursue certification. However, licensing requirements vary by state.
5. Dental Hygienists
Required Education: Associate degree
Job Outlook (2019-29): +6%
Median Annual Salary: $77,090
Working under the supervision of a dentist, dental hygienists provide preventive care and look for dental disease in patients. They use various tools to remove plaque, take x-rays, apply fluoride, and educate patients on oral hygiene. Common employers include private dental offices, community health clinics, and public health facilities.
Dental hygienist trade school usually takes three years and includes classroom, clinical, and laboratory instruction. These programs also require classes in anatomy and physiology, periodontics, radiography, and patient management.
Dental hygienists need a license in every state. Licensure often requires students to obtain an associate degree accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation and pass an exam. While job duties vary, some states allow hygienists to administer anesthetic, remove sutures, and place fillings. They can advance in their careers by earning a bachelor's or transitioning from direct patient care into management roles.
6. Electrical and Electronics Engineering Technicians
Required Education: Associate degree
Job Outlook (2019-29): +2%
Median Annual Salary: $67,550
These professionals help engineers create electronic and electrical equipment like computers, medical monitoring devices, and navigational equipment. Typical duties include building electrical instruments, drawing diagrams, making parts using machine tools, and performing preventative maintenance. Electrical and electronics engineering technicians work in manufacturing, research and development, engineering services, and the federal government.
In trade school, students learn to read blueprints and engineering instructions, write reports, and record data. They take classes in physics, programming languages, circuitry, and chemistry. Some electrical and electronic engineering programs hold accreditation from the Technology Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.
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Electrical and electronic engineering technicians need mechanical, logical thinking, and observational skills. To demonstrate advanced knowledge in the field, technicians may apply for certifications from the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies, the International Society of Automation, and ETA International.
7. Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanics and Technicians
Required Education: Trade school and/or associate degree
Job Outlook (2019-29): +5%
Median Annual Salary: $66,680
Aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians perform maintenance and make repairs on aircraft. Some inspect aircraft according to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) specifications. Aircraft mechanics find electrical and mechanical problems, repair aircraft components, and use diagnostic equipment to test aircraft parts. Avionics technicians test electronic instruments, install instrument panels, repair components, and keep records.
Major employers include aerospace parts manufacturers, support services for air transportation, scheduled air transportation, and the federal government. Employees work in airfields, hangars, and repair stations, usually near major airports.
Most aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians attend an FAA-approved aviation maintenance trade school and earn an associate degree. Aircraft mechanics complete an FAA certification or work under the supervision of a certified mechanic. Mechanics with an inspector authorization face excellent career advancement prospects.
8. Boilermakers
Required Education: High school diploma or equivalent
Job Outlook (2019-29): +1%
Median Annual Salary: $65,360
Boilermakers assemble, repair, and maintain boilers and other large containers used in buildings, ships, and factories. Typical duties include reading blueprints, testing boiler systems for leaks, replacing broken parts, and cleaning vessels.
The labor-intensive work often occurs outside in all weather conditions. Job duties require physical stamina and adherence to safety precautions to avoid injury. Boilermakers work in utility system construction; nonresidential building construction; fabricated metal product manufacturing; and plumbing, heating, and air conditioning.
Boilermakers receive technical training and education through a four-year apprenticeship. They learn to use boilermaker tools, follow safety practices, read and sketch blueprints, and follow installation techniques. Boilermaker apprentices gain skills in welding, knot-tying, rigging, and fabrication. The International Brotherhood of Boilermakers offers a national apprenticeship program. Workers with a background in welding, pipefitting, or sheet metal work may qualify for shortened apprenticeships.
9. Construction and Building Inspectors
Required Education: High school diploma or equivalent (minimum)
Job Outlook (2019-29): +3%
Median Annual Salary: $62,860
Construction and building inspectors ensure that construction projects comply with building ordinances, zoning codes, and other regulations. They spend most of their time at worksites inspecting buildings, bridges, highways, and water systems. They also examine electrical, plumbing, and heating/air conditioning systems. Other tasks include approving building plans, inspecting plumbing and electrical systems for problems, and issuing notices for non-compliant buildings.
Construction and building inspectors specialize in home inspection, electrical inspection, building inspection, and plans examination. They work for local or state government, engineering services, construction companies, or are self-employed.
Students in construction and building inspection trade programs learn to interpret building codes and conduct inspections. Most states require building and construction inspectors to hold licensure or certifications and take continuing education courses. Obtaining additional education and experience in the field may offer the best chances for advancement.
10. Electricians
Required Education: High school diploma or equivalent (minimum)
Job Outlook (2019-29): +8%
Median Annual Salary: $56,900
Electricians fix, maintain, and install electrical power, lighting, communication, and control systems in buildings. Trainees typically complete a four- or five-year apprenticeship. Some attend a technical program covering basic electrical information, circuitry, and safety, followed by a shorter apprenticeship.
Electrician apprenticeships include paid on-the-job training and technical instruction. Electricians who complete a trade program may qualify for a shorter apprenticeship. They gain skills in fire alarm systems, soldering, electrical code requirements, and blueprint reading. Unions and contractor associations offer electrician apprenticeships. Electricians who complete apprenticeships can qualify as journey workers and work without supervision.
Requirements vary, but most states require electricians to pass a test and earn a license. Electricians advance from journey workers to master electricians after completing a certain number of field hours.
Best Trade Schools and Degrees
#1 The 10 Highest-Paying Trade Jobs West Kentucky Community and Technical College Paducah, KY
Paducah, KY 2 years
Online + Campus Located in Paducah, WKCTC offers online vocational trade degrees, diplomas, and certificates in several in-demand fields. The school offers several associate degrees in fields like computer and information technology, logistics and operations management, and medical information technology. The school also offers a unique degree or certificate in marine technology, preparing students for life on the water. Students seeking other certificate programs for fast employment can choose from the same fields as those above but graduate from the program in just a few months. Most students complete the school's 39- to 43-credit diploma programs in about one year. Notable choices include medical information technology, computer-aided drafting and design, and business administration systems. Students applying to associate programs ideally possess a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Diploma and certificate choices require students to submit a completed application for the college. WKCTC is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Average Tuition In-state $4,176 Out-of-state $14,616 Retention Rate 69% Admission Rate Not provided Students Enrolled 6,327 Institution Type Public Percent Online Enrollment 39% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online. Accreditation Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges More Details #2 The 10 Highest-Paying Trade Jobs Clovis Community College Clovis, NM
Clovis, NM 2 years
Online + Campus Located in Clovis, New Mexico, CCC offers several online vocational trade degrees and certificates. Students can complete course requirements 100% online with no residency requirements. Online degree and certification options include several in business administration, paralegal studies, behavioral science, and computer information systems. Associate degree programs require about 60 credits each to complete. Students can complete the certificate of completion programs in about a few months to a year of study. Notable choices include a certificate of achievement in income tax preparation, certificate of achievement in fundamentals of game design, and certificate of completion in legal assistant studies. The school prefers students to possess a high school diploma to apply for associate degree programs. For certificate of achievement choices, students must submit a completed application and take placement tests. The school offers counseling and advising services for online students and does not require standardized tests to begin the admission process. CCC is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Average Tuition In-state $1,296 Out-of-state $2,664 Retention Rate 66% Admission Rate Not provided Students Enrolled 2,902 Institution Type Public Percent Online Enrollment 52% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online. Accreditation Yes Higher Learning Commission More Details #3 The 10 Highest-Paying Trade Jobs Central Community College Grand Island, NE
Grand Island, NE 2 years
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Online + Campus Serving students in Grand Island, Nebraska, CCC offers several online certificate, diploma, and associate degree programs. Students outside of Nebraska must reside in an authorization reciprocity state to attend. Students can complete associate degrees in a variety of fields such as business administration, health information technology, and early childhood education. In addition, the school offers information technology certificates like Cisco networking and business-related certificates like logistics or entrepreneurship. The school also offers year-long diploma programs for students exploring career choices in similar fields. Students do not need a high school diploma or GED to apply, but the school prefers students to submit them for placement purposes. Standardized tests or placement exams can help students that need to complete general education courses. CCC is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Average Tuition In-state $2,700 Out-of-state $4,050 Retention Rate 66% Admission Rate Not provided Students Enrolled 6,368 Institution Type Public Percent Online Enrollment 47% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online. Accreditation Yes Higher Learning Commission More Details #4 The 10 Highest-Paying Trade Jobs Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College Shell Lake, WI
Shell Lake, WI 2 years
Online + Campus Located in Shell Lake, WITC offers 37 online associate degrees, certificates, and technical diplomas, offering students a jumpstart in in-demand fields. Students can choose one of 11 associate degrees, including accounting, early childhood education, health information technology, and medical and administrative professional. The school also offers certificates in customer service, management, group childcare essentials, and tax preparer assistant. Learners can also participate in technical diplomas with concentrations such as drafting technician, medical billing specialist, office technology assistant, or office support technician. Students wanting to work in childcare settings can choose a one-year technical diploma in childcare services, completing the first year of the associate degree for fast employment. The school offers credit for prior learning and a generous transfer credit policy. Applicants do not need a high school diploma, but possessing one makes the placement process easier. WITC is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Average Tuition In-state $4,368 Out-of-state $6,552 Retention Rate 62% Admission Rate Not provided Students Enrolled 2,966 Institution Type Public Percent Online Enrollment 65% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online. Accreditation Yes Higher Learning Commission More Details #5 The 10 Highest-Paying Trade Jobs Wiregrass Georgia Technical College Valdosta, GA
Valdosta, GA 2 years
Online + Campus Located in Valdosta, Wiregrass offers online degrees, diplomas, and technical certificates, allowing students to complete courses without coming to campus. Students can begin with certificates in fields like child development specialist, technical specialist, and fire officer. Students can complete most certificates in a matter of months. Some departments also offer diploma choices — including fire science technology and accounting — allowing students to specialize further with a one-year program. Full associate degrees include fire science technology, accounting, business management, and criminal justice technology. The programs follow the same structure as on-campus classes, but most happen asynchronously. Students do not need a high school diploma or GED to apply but need to send transcripts of any completed school work. Wiregrass is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Average Tuition In-state $2,400 Out-of-state $4,800 Retention Rate 54% Admission Rate Not provided Students Enrolled 4,669 Institution Type Public Percent Online Enrollment 28% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online. Accreditation Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges More Details
Vocational Trade Programs by State
What Is a Trade Job?
Trade school careers require advanced skills and training that students obtain by completing a postsecondary technical education program. Trade schools do not award bachelor's degrees like typical four-year colleges. Many high-paying trade careers require on-the-job training or an apprenticeship, such as electricians and boilermakers.
Career and technical education programs take less time and require a smaller financial investment than a four-year degree program. For example, students typically earn an associate degree in dental hygiene or nuclear medicine technology in two years.
Certificate programs take even less time than associate programs. Apprenticeships are paid and can lead to employment opportunities. Popular trade careers include radiation therapist, real estate broker, carpenter, and plumber.
Look into trade school opportunities:
Trade Job and Career Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I pursue a trade school career?
Trade school careers can offer high pay and stable employment. Vocational programs require less time and money than a traditional four-year degree. Students can pursue high-paying trade jobs like dental hygienists, engineering technicians, and elevator repairers.
What are some of the best trades to learn that pay well?
Some of the best trade jobs that pay well include construction manager, elevator repairer, radiation therapist, and nuclear medicine technologist. Construction managers earn a median annual salary of $97,180 and have a strong job outlook.
What skilled trades are in demand?
In-demand skilled trades include construction managers, elevator and escalator installers and repairers, radiation therapists, and electricians. The BLS projects faster-than-average growth for these careers from 2019 to 2029.
What jobs pay over $100,000 without a degree?
Construction managers earn a median annual salary of $97,180. They typically need at least an associate degree and experience in the field. Other high-paying trade careers are elevator and escalator installers and repairers and radiation therapists, earning over $80,000 in median annual salaries.
The Trade School Career Hunt
To find the highest-paying trade jobs, look at job fairs, networking events, government agency listings, and professional organizations.
Some of the best-paying trade jobs require apprenticeships, which can lead to employment offers while students develop professional experience and earn money. Be sure to contact previous employers, trade school instructors, and mentors about any open positions.
Popular online job boards for skilled trades include Traded Up, Tradeworthy Jobs, iHireConstruction, and Trade Hounds.
Awaken your dormant DNA ability to attract wealth effortlessly
The simple yet scientifically proven Wealth DNA method laid out in the report allows you to effortlessly start attracting the wealth and abundance you deserve.
Awaken your dormant DNA ability to attract wealth effortlessly
The simple yet scientifically proven Wealth DNA method laid out in the report allows you to effortlessly start attracting the wealth and abundance you deserve.
Affluent Savvy
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