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Top 12 Highest Paying Trade Jobs in 2025
Thinking about learning a new trade? Discover which trade jobs offer the highest pay, and get tips on how and where to find the right opportunities for you.
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In today’s dynamic job market, many people are seeking career paths that promise both professional and financial stability without the high cost of obtaining a degree, and skilled trades are emerging as a potential solution.
To help you understand what makes trade jobs great alternative career paths, particularly for job seekers without a degree, we’re highlighting some of the highest-paying trade jobs and providing tips on how and where to find the right fit for you.
What Is a Trade Job?
A trade job is a profession that involves using specialized skills, often acquired through apprenticeships, vocational schools, or on-the-job training, to perform manual, practical, and/or technical tasks.
From carpentry work to installing or repairing advanced electrical systems, trade professions can be either full-time or part-time, though part-time work is typically more readily available once you’re more established in your field.
Trade Job Outlook
Now is a great time to consider finding a new job in the trades. Here’s why:
- Since trade jobs don’t require a traditional four-year degree and require hands-on work, they appeal to job seekers who prefer physical work outside of the office and are looking to avoid the costs of higher education.
- According to McKinsey & Company, many current trade jobs are performed by people nearing retirement age, which means replacements are already needed to get started on training and fill expected vacancies in the next decade, especially in green energy, construction, and infrastructure industries witnessing “skyrocketing demand.”
- Globalization and the rise of AI have also added uncertainty to job markets that were once considered safe, such as tech. However, because trade jobs cannot be offshored or automated, they provide increased job security, even in the face of evolving technology.
12 Highest-Paying Trade Jobs
Another promising factor in the outlook for trade jobs? If you’re looking for a stable, high-paying career, you can find a variety of opportunities here.
Using data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH), we’ve ranked the highest-paying trade jobs, starting with the best-paying, to help you learn more about these occupations and their earning potential.
1 Elevator and Escalator Mechanics
- Median pay: $106,580 per year
- Job outlook: 6% growth from 2023 to 2033 (faster than average), with 2,200 job openings projected annually
- Required skills: Understanding of complex electrical, hydraulic, and mechanical systems; ability to troubleshoot issues as they arise
Elevator mechanics are responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of elevators, escalators, moving walkways, and similar machines. Since their work requires adherence to stringent safety regulations and building codes, most states mandate specific licensure for elevator mechanics.
2 Power Plant Operators, Distributors, and Dispatchers
- Median pay: $103,600 per year
- Job outlook: 8% decline from 2023 to 2033, but with 3,800 job openings projected annually
- Required skills: Technical skills in electrical systems; knowledge of circuits, transformers, and power plant equipment; attention to detail and problem-solving
Power plant operators, distributors, and dispatchers manage the systems within a power plant. Their responsibilities include monitoring gauges, adjusting controls to regulate power flow, and initiating or shutting down equipment to ensure the stability of the electrical grid.
3 Power Line Installers and Repairers
- Median pay: $92,560 per year
- Job outlook: 8% growth from 2023 to 2033 (faster than average), with 10,700 job openings projected annually
- Required skills: Understand concepts like voltage, current, and resistance; strength and stamina for physical labor; troubleshooting issues
Power line workers install, maintain, and repair the high-voltage power lines that transmit electricity across vast distances. Their work involves stringing electrical cables, inspecting lines, and operating specialized construction equipment. This job requires extra caution due to the nature of working with high-voltage electricity.
4 Aircraft Mechanics and Technicians
- Median pay: $79,140 per year
- Job outlook: 5% growth from 2023 to 2033 (as fast as average), with 13,400 job openings projected annually
- Required skills: Technical knowledge of aircraft and avionics equipment; attention to detail and problem-solving
Aircraft mechanics and technicians ensure the safe functioning of airplanes, helicopters, and other aircraft. They inspect, test, and repair complex equipment within these machines to detect, diagnose, and fix both minor issues and intricate malfunctions. Aircraft mechanics also need to be certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
5 Electrical Engineering Technicians
- Median pay: $77,180 per year
- Job outlook: 3% growth from 2023 to 2033 (as fast as average), with 9,500 job openings projected annually
- Required skills: Solid foundation in electronics; understanding of AC/DC circuits, various electronic devices, and microcontrollers
Electrical engineering techs serve support engineers, playing a key role in the design, development, testing, and manufacturing of a wide array of electrical and electronic equipment and systems. These professionals work across industries, including manufacturing, telecommunications, and utilities.
6 Boilermakers
- Median pay: $73,340 per year
- Job outlook: 1% decline from 2023 to 2033, but with 1,000 job openings projected annually
- Required skills: Technical proficiency in welding and machinery; diagram reading and troubleshooting; physical stamina
Boilermakers assemble, install, maintain, and repair large boilers, closed vats, and other vessels designed to safely contain liquids and gases under extreme pressure. This trade often involves working in confined spaces or at significant heights, requiring mechanical knowledge and physical strength.
7 Construction and Building Inspectors
- Median pay: $72,120 per year
- Job outlook: 0% growth from 2023 to 2033 (little or no change), but with 15,000 job openings projected annually
- Required skills: Knowledge of construction and building regulations; attention to detail
Construction and building inspectors ensure the safety and integrity of structures by verifying that projects strictly adhere to building codes, local ordinances, and zoning regulations. Certification is often required and varies by state and municipality. Inspectors review architectural plans and conduct on-site inspections for physical integrity, plumbing, electrical wiring, HVACR installation, and other components.
8 Telecommunications Technicians
- Median pay: $64,310 per year
- Job outlook: 3% decline from 2023 to 2033, but with 24,600 job openings projected annually
- Required skills: Technical knowledge of network systems and relevant tools; problem-solving
Telecommunications technicians are the frontline professionals who ensure our homes and businesses stay connected to the digital world. They install, maintain, and repair intricate telecommunications infrastructure that delivers internet, television, and phone services by connecting wires, troubleshooting signal issues, and ensuring all systems function seamlessly.
9 Industrial Machinery Mechanics and Maintenance Workers
- Median pay: $63,510 per year
- Job outlook: 15% growth from 2023 to 2033 (much faster than average), with 53,000 job openings projected annually
- Required skills: Technical knowledge of machinery and tools; troubleshooting and problem-solving
Industrial mechanics and maintenance workers ensure the smooth operation of factories and industrial facilities by installing, repairing, and maintaining an array of complex industrial machinery and equipment, from small alignments to large-scale overhauls. They commonly work with hand tools, welding and cutting equipment, and precision-measuring devices.
10 Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
- Median pay: $62,970 per year
- Job outlook: 6% growth from 2023 to 2033 (faster than average), with 43,300 job openings projected annually
- Required skills: Industrial knowledge of flow systems; aptitude with relevant tools; problem-solving
Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters install, repair, and maintain piping systems that transport fluids. Found in all kinds of commercial and residential environments, their duties involve connecting and testing various types of pipes to ensure they’re leak-free and comply with safety standards.
11 Wind Turbine Technicians
- Median pay: $62,580 per year
- Job outlook: 60% growth from 2023 to 2033 (much faster than average), with 2,100 job openings projected annually
- Required skills: Understanding of mechanical and electrical systems; physical stamina
As the clean energy sector rapidly expands, wind turbine technicians stand at the forefront, specializing in the inspection, maintenance, and repair of towering wind turbines. They often work at significant heights and in remote locations, requiring a blend of technical expertise and strong adherence to safety protocols in challenging work environments.
12 Machinists and Tool and Die Makers
- Median pay: $57,700 per year
- Job outlook: 0% growth from 2023 to 2033 (little or no change), but with 35,400 job openings projected annually
- Required skills: Technical aptitude and familiarity with computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) software; extreme attention to detail
Machinists and tool and die makers craft and operate specialized equipment that produces precision metal parts, instruments, and tools essential for mass manufacturing. Their work demands an extraordinary level of accuracy, often requiring measurements within ten-thousandths of an inch. They utilize a variety of machine tools, alongside CAD/CAM technology, to bring intricate designs to life.
Tips for Choosing a Trade Job
As you can see, a career in the skilled trades can offer stability, competitive pay, and the satisfaction of hands-on work. But with so many options, you will need to take a thoughtful approach when choosing the right trade job for you.
Find Your Fit
The most successful, satisfied professionals are often those whose work aligns with their interests and goals. Since there are many high-paying trade jobs, each encompassing a variety of tasks, it’s important to figure out what fits you.
Ask yourself how you’d like to spend your time, and consider your skills. Some trades are more technical, while others are more labor-intensive. What soft skills, such as attention to detail and problem-solving, do you already possess that can “transfer” to trade jobs? What hard skills, such as plumbing and welding, do you need to learn to land a job?
You’ll also want to determine your preferred schedule. Are you open to working at all hours of the day, or do you want a traditional 9-to-5 job? Figuring out what you want ahead of time will bring your search into focus.
Research the Market
In addition to learning more about jobs that align with your interests and researching their earning potential and job outlook, keep in mind that average pay and demand can vary by location.
Conduct local market research to determine the availability, financial viability, and future stability of job opportunities in your area. If possible, talk to people in the trades to get a firsthand perspective of their jobs. Their insights may shape your understanding far more than you realize.
Learn About Training Requirements
Although it’s possible to land the highest-paying trade jobs without a degree, you still need to understand what kind of training is required.
Many high-paying trade jobs start with structured apprenticeships. These programs can be competitive and time-intensive because they offer the unique advantage of paid, on-the-job training combined with technical instruction, allowing you to earn while you learn.
If an apprenticeship isn’t available, you can also pursue training through vocational schools or postsecondary nondegree awards, such as career certifications, which can help you get your foot in the door.
Embrace Technological Advancements
Technology is rapidly transforming the trades, making jobs safer and more efficient while creating new opportunities.
To stay ahead of the curve and become more hireable, complement your trade-specific expertise (like machine operation and knowledge of safety procedures) with basic programming, data analysis, and digital literacy skills relevant to the role you’re after. If you’re unsure what skills to target, review job descriptions to identify the most commonly mentioned skills required.
You can also consider trades that are integrating new technologies, such as automation, robotics, building information modeling (BIM), the Internet of Things (IoT), and virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR). Trade jobs in these fields often command higher pay and offer long-term career viability.
Assess Physical Demands and Safety
Many trades involve physical labor, from working at great heights or in confined spaces to working with hazardous materials, and require adherence to strict safety protocols to protect both your welfare and that of others.
Be realistic about the physical demands and potential hazards of a trade, and assess the risk you’re willing to take. The “Work Environment” section of the OOH outlines details on typical working conditions and injury risks for select trade jobs to help you evaluate the risk vs reward.
Where to Find Skilled Trade Jobs
Once you’ve identified a trade that aligns with your interests and skills, the next step is to explore where opportunities exist.
You can leverage a variety of resources in your search for skilled trade jobs, such as:
- Apprenticeship.gov: The federal hub for registered apprenticeships allows you to search directly for opportunities by occupation or location.
- Trade associations and unions: Many trade associations provide “Career HQ” sections or job boards on their websites. Similarly, trade unions often sponsor apprenticeship programs and maintain job referral systems for members.
- Vocational schools: Technical colleges and vocational schools have strong ties to local industries, with career services departments offering job placement assistance to graduates seeking the highest-paying trade school jobs.
- Work programs: Work programs like Job Corps provide free, hands-on training and career support for young adults. Participating in these programs can provide networking opportunities that can potentially lead to employment.
- Online job boards: Sites like Sonara.ai can help you tailor your job search and gain access to opportunities across industries, allowing you to more easily target trade jobs that are right for you.
An Alternative Career Path
Getting a job in the trades can be a great choice for professionals who don’t feel drawn to more traditional careers, such as in tech, sales, or customer service. Plus, skilled trades offer a more accessible alternative to career paths that are becoming automated, offshored, or require an expensive degree to get started.
If you like working with your hands or with technical systems, or you’re simply looking for new job options, consider high-paying trade jobs that are available today. Assess your skills and needs, explore apprenticeship programs and job boards, and try using AI to streamline your search!
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