Top 15 Highest Paying Trade Jobs (With Salaries)

You don’t need a college degree to secure a lucrative trade job, contrary to popular belief. Trade careers offer an excellent pathway for those who prefer hands-on work and possess specialized skills. If you’re considering a career in the trades, we’ve compiled a list of the highest paying trade jobs available today, along with insights on how trade jobs differ from traditional degree-required positions.

Key Takeaways:

• Some of the highest-paying trades include plumbers, commercial airline pilots, and construction managers.

• From 2020 to 2030, the commercial pilot career is projected to grow by 13%, resulting in approximately 14,700 job openings in the U.S.

• During the same period, the radiation therapist profession is expected to expand by 11%, creating around 23,100 job opportunities across the country.

• Trade jobs typically do not require a college degree; instead, they rely on vocational training or hands-on experience.

Top 15 Highest Paying Trade Jobs

1. Fire Chief

   Average Annual Salary: $53,000
   Job Outlook: Fire chief positions are projected to grow by 8%, resulting in approximately 1,300 job opportunities across the U.S. between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS.

   Becoming a Fire Chief typically requires significant experience, often beginning as an emergency medical technician or a Fire Captain. Many departments require at least ten years of experience in firefighting before considering a candidate for the role.

   According to our data, Alaska, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts offer some of the highest salaries for Fire Chiefs.

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2. Commercial Diver

   Average Annual Salary: $49,000
   Job Outlook: Commercial diver jobs are projected to grow 13%, producing around 46,300 job opportunities across the U.S. between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS.

   Commercial Divers inspect and retrieve items from underwater environments. A high school diploma or GED is required, along with passing a diving physical exam. Interestingly, a scuba diving license is not mandatory to enter this field, but as you gain experience, earnings can reach up to $136,000.

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3. Plumber

   Average Annual Salary: $56,000
   Job Outlook: Plumber positions are expected to grow 5%, resulting in approximately 23,400 job opportunities across the U.S. between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS.

   Plumbers handle the installation, maintenance, and repair of gas and water systems. To enter this field, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by certification from a vocational or trade institution. Most plumbers start as apprentices under licensed professionals to gain necessary experience.

   Find Plumber jobs near me

4. Construction Manager

   Average Annual Salary: $81,000
   Job Outlook: Construction manager roles are projected to grow 11%, with around 51,400 job opportunities across the U.S. between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS.

   Construction Managers oversee contractors and laborers at job sites, ensuring that projects meet deadlines and budgets. While many construction managers work in offices, a significant portion is also present on-site, where safety is a priority.

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5. Network Architect

   Average Annual Salary: $97,000
   Job Outlook: Network Architect jobs are projected to grow 5%, resulting in about 18,200 job opportunities across the U.S. between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS.

   Network Architects design and maintain networking systems for organizations, focusing on future-proofing infrastructure. While many companies prefer candidates with degrees, relevant certifications and experience can sometimes suffice.

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6. First-Line Supervisor

   Average Annual Salary: $46,000
   Job Outlook: First-Line Supervisor jobs are projected to grow 7%, producing around 51,700 job opportunities across the U.S. between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS.

   To become a First-Line Supervisor, prior experience in a relevant field is often necessary. Many positions require at least ten years of experience, often starting as a technician or in a lower supervisory role.

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7. Light Technician and Media and Communication Equipment Workers

   Average Annual Salary: $34,000
   Job Outlook: Light Technician jobs are projected to grow 8%, with around 11,500 job opportunities across the U.S. between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS.

   Light Technicians manage lighting setups for various media productions. A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required, along with vocational training and certification as a Certified Apprentice Lighting Technician.

   Find Light Technician jobs near me

8. Commercial Pilot

   Average Annual Salary: $71,000
   Job Outlook: Commercial pilot jobs are projected to grow 13%, resulting in around 14,700 job opportunities across the U.S. between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS.

   Commercial Pilots operate cargo planes and serve as flight instructors, differing from Airline Pilots. Requirements include being at least 18 years old, fluent in English, logging 250 hours towards a commercial license, and passing medical and written FAA exams.

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9. Air Traffic Controller

   Average Annual Salary: $64,000
   Job Outlook: Air Traffic Controller jobs are projected to grow 4%, creating around 900 job opportunities across the U.S. between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS.

   Air Traffic Controllers manage aircraft movements on the ground and in the air, ensuring safe takeoffs and landings. A bachelor’s degree from an accredited program and FAA certification are required for this role.

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10. Elevator Mechanic

    Average Annual Salary: $57,000
    Job Outlook: Elevator mechanic jobs are projected to grow 10%, resulting in approximately 2,800 job opportunities across the U.S. between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS.

    Elevator Mechanics install and repair elevators, escalators, and moving walkways. A high school diploma or GED and completion of an apprenticeship program are typically required.

    Find Elevator Mechanic jobs near me

11. Radiation Therapist

    Average Annual Salary: $81,000
    Job Outlook: Radiation therapist jobs are projected to grow 9%, producing around 1,600 job opportunities across the U.S. between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS.

    Radiation Therapists work with oncologists to treat cancer patients, ensuring proper exposure to radiation. Completing a training program typically takes two to four years, and obtaining certification can lead to higher earnings.

    Find Radiation Therapist jobs near me

12. Dental Hygienist

    Average Annual Salary: $81,000
    Job Outlook: Dental hygienist jobs are projected to grow 9%, creating around 16,300 job opportunities across the U.S. between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS.

    Dental Hygienists clean teeth and assist dentists during exams. To become one, you typically need an associate degree in dental hygiene and a dental board license, which usually requires three years of training.

    Find Dental Hygienist jobs near me

13. Landscape Architect

    Average Annual Salary: $58,000
    Job Outlook: Job growth for landscape architects is expected to be minimal between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS.

    Landscape Architects design outdoor spaces, combining gardening and design principles. Many will complete an apprenticeship before becoming fully certified.

    Find Landscape Architect jobs near me

14. Corporate Executive Chef

    Average Annual Salary: $54,000
    Job Outlook: Corporate executive chef jobs are projected to grow 11%, resulting in around 15,400 job opportunities across the U.S. between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS.

    Corporate Executive Chefs oversee kitchen operations and menu creation. A high school diploma or GED is necessary, along with vocational training or an associate degree in culinary arts.

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15. Respiratory Therapist

    Average Annual Salary: $54,000
    Job Outlook: Respiratory therapy jobs are projected to grow 23%, producing around 31,100 job opportunities across the U.S. between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS.

    Respiratory Therapists assist patients with breathing difficulties and conduct assessments for respiratory disorders. An associate degree and certification from the National Board for Respiratory Care are required.

    Find Respiratory Therapist jobs near me

What is a Trade Job and How is it Different from a Job That Requires a Degree?

A trade job requires specialized training beyond high school but not necessarily a four-year college degree. Vocational training enables individuals to enter the workforce more quickly than traditional degree programs, which often involve two years of general education courses before focusing on a major.

The financial aspect is also different; while a four-year degree can cost upwards of $100,000, vocational programs typically range from $3,000 to $15,000. Many trade jobs emphasize hands-on experience, which can involve physical labor and the use of power tools and machinery, often accompanied by certain risks.

Highest Paying Trade Jobs FAQ

1. Can You Earn 100K in a Trade Job?

   Yes, it is possible to earn over $100,000 a year in certain trade jobs. Roles such as construction managers, electricians, and welders can reach this salary, but this typically requires extensive experience rather than being achievable at entry-level positions.

2. What Trade Job is the Most in Demand?

   Plumbing jobs are currently in high demand. A plumber’s role includes the installation, maintenance, and repair of piping systems. It typically takes two to four years of training to enter this field.

3. What is a Hard Trade to Learn?

   Electrical work is considered a challenging trade to master. Becoming an electrician can be physically demanding, requiring knowledge of electrical systems and safety protocols, in addition to math skills.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, pursuing a trade job can be a rewarding and financially viable career pathway. A four-year degree is not a prerequisite for achieving a high-paying job; with dedication and hard work, you can excel in a trade and enjoy a fulfilling career.

Author

Chris Kolmar

Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.