The 10 Best Union Jobs in 2026

Unions have played a crucial role in shaping workplace culture and labor laws, advocating for safer and better-paying jobs for their members. In 2026, unions continue to represent workers in negotiations with employers, striving for improved job security, better working conditions, and enhanced benefits.

With unions being a significant force in the labor market, there are numerous union jobs available, even if not everyone in those positions is a union member. While it may be challenging to definitively identify the best union jobs, we have compiled a list of 10 careers that offer union membership opportunities.

Key Takeaways:

• Benefits of joining a union include:

  • Higher wages and comprehensive benefits

  • Safer working conditions

  • Increased job security

  • Access to more training opportunities

• Union jobs are commonly found in sectors such as local government, protective services, and education.

• Three of the top union jobs are teachers, firefighters, and police officers.

10 of the Best Union Jobs

If you are considering a career with union representation, you have a variety of options. Union jobs tend to be skilled positions, and with increasing efforts to unionize in several service industries, the opportunities for union employment are likely to broaden in the coming years.

1. Teacher

   Average Annual Salary: $52,000

   Joining a teaching union offers significant job security through tenure. Currently, there is an ongoing shortage of teachers, which may facilitate easier employment in this field.

   Teachers guide students and impart essential knowledge for success in society. While the job requires extensive hours for teaching, lesson planning, and collaboration with parents and administrators, it is incredibly rewarding.

   Requirements needed: A bachelor’s degree, completion of a state-approved teacher education program, a successful background check, and passing a general teacher certification or licensure exam.

   Find Teacher jobs near me

2. Firefighter

   Average Annual Salary: $45,000

   As a high-risk profession, firefighting has a strong union presence. While many firefighters are volunteers, a substantial number serve as full-time employees. Firefighters respond to fires and emergencies, often providing rescue services and community education on fire safety.

   Requirements needed: A high school diploma or GED, successful completion of a firefighting examination (including fitness and medical evaluations), and often an emergency medical technician (EMT) license.

   Find Firefighter jobs near me

3. Police Officer

   Average Annual Salary: $52,000

   Police unions remain robust, making this career one of the most secure within union jobs. Officers engage in community patrols and respond to emergencies, but they also handle a significant amount of paperwork and adhere to strict regulations.

   Requirements needed: Completion of police academy training, which includes physical fitness, negotiation skills, safety techniques, and a strong understanding of the law.

   Find Police Officer jobs near me

4. Carpenter

   Average Annual Salary: $47,000

   If you prefer hands-on work, a career as a carpenter may be a perfect match. Carpenters perform a variety of tasks, from framing houses to crafting cabinetry, often working for construction companies or independently.

   Requirements needed: A high school diploma or GED, and completion of a trade school carpentry program or apprenticeship.

   Find Carpenter jobs near me

5. Auto Mechanic

   Average Annual Salary: $40,000

   Automotive mechanics, also referred to as service technicians, hold vital roles in maintaining and repairing vehicles. They can work for dealerships or independent garages.

   Requirements needed: A high school diploma or GED and completion of a technical or trade school automotive program, along with an apprenticeship.

   Find Auto Mechanic jobs near me

6. Electrician

   Average Annual Salary: $55,000

   Electricians are essential to the construction and maintenance of electrical systems in homes and businesses. Many specialize in either residential or commercial work.

   Requirements needed: Completion of a technical or trade school program, followed by an apprenticeship under the supervision of a licensed electrician.

   Find Electrician jobs near me

7. Airline Pilot

   Average Annual Salary: $100,000

   Airline pilots are among the highest-paid union jobs, requiring extensive training and certification. Pilots are responsible for the safety of their aircraft, crew, and passengers.

   Requirements needed: A bachelor’s degree in aviation or a related field, obtaining a private pilot’s license, and completing additional certifications to qualify as an airline pilot.

   Find Airline Pilot jobs near me

8. Steelworker

   Average Annual Salary: $41,000

   Steelworkers are highly skilled tradespeople who work with steel to create structural components for buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure.

   Requirements needed: A high school diploma or GED, and completion of an apprenticeship program.

   Find Ironworker jobs near me

9. Machinist

   Average Annual Salary: $48,000

   Machinists work in various industries, operating machinery and tools to create precision components. They can join labor unions, such as the International Association of Machinists.

   Requirements needed: There are no formal education requirements, but 6 to 12 months of job training is typically necessary.

   Find Machinist jobs near me

10. Welder

    Average Annual Salary: $38,000

    Welders fuse metal parts across various projects, from construction to manufacturing. Specialized training can lead to high-demand positions in areas like underwater welding.

    Requirements needed: Completion of a welding program at a technical school or community college, along with on-the-job training or apprenticeship.

    Find Welder jobs near me

What is a Union?

A labor or trade union is an organization of workers united to negotiate fair pay, benefits, and working conditions. Many unions also advocate for safety standards and labor rights.

Unions can be national or international, often having local branches to provide support and resources to members. Some jobs are covered by unions even if the worker is not a member, ensuring industry standards are maintained.

This article focuses on individuals who are members of unions. All statistics referenced are based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics as of 2023.

Benefits of Joining a Union

Joining a union comes with various benefits, although there can also be drawbacks. Unions exist to represent their members and advocate for fair treatment in the workplace.

1. Higher wages and better benefits. Union members typically earn higher wages compared to non-members due to collective bargaining efforts.

2. Safer working conditions and hours. Unions advocate for improved safety standards and reasonable work hours, enhancing overall job quality.

3. Increased job security. Union representation can provide stronger protections against unjust termination, resulting in greater job stability.

4. Access to training opportunities. Unions often provide resources and facilities for members to acquire new skills or improve existing ones.

5. A collective voice. Unions amplify individual concerns, making it more challenging for employers to overlook worker grievances.

Who Typically Belongs to a Union?

As of 2023, approximately 14.3 million union members exist in the U.S., representing about 10% of all wage and salary workers. Membership spans various demographics, with significant representation among men, workers aged 45 to 64, and Black employees.

While union membership exists nationwide, states like Hawaii and New York have higher rates, whereas North and South Carolina have lower membership levels.

Top 10 Industries for Highest Union Membership Rates

For those seeking union jobs, here are the industries with the highest percentages of unionized workers:

1. Local Government. 39.4% of local government workers are union members, covering various administrative and support roles.

2. Protective Services. This category includes police officers and firefighters, with 33.8% union membership.

3. Education, Training, and Library Occupations. About 33.1% of professionals in this field are union members.

4. State Government. 29.4% of state government employees belong to a union, a lower rate than local government.

5. Federal Government. At 25.6%, federal employees have a notable union presence.

6. Utilities. 23.4% of utility workers are union members, ensuring fair labor practices in essential services.

7. Construction and Extraction. 17.4% of employees in this sector are unionized, emphasizing the importance of labor rights in construction.

8. Transportation and Warehousing. 16.1% of workers in this industry belong to a union.

9. Community and Social Services. 15.6% of social service professionals are union members.

10. Installation, Maintenance, and Repair. 14.2% of workers in this category are unionized, securing their rights and benefits.

Other industries with significant union representation include healthcare, media, and manufacturing.

Ways to Find a Union Job

Finding a union job is similar to searching for any other position. Here are some effective strategies:

1. Search job boards for union positions. Use filters or keywords to specify your interest in union jobs on popular job search platforms.

2. Contact local or industry unions. Unions often have information on job openings and can connect you with potential employers.

3. Join an apprenticeship program. Apprenticeships provide valuable training and may lead to union positions.

4. Utilize the Union Jobs Clearinghouse website. This national resource offers job listings and information about apprenticeship opportunities.

Union Jobs FAQ

1. What are the benefits of having a union job?

The primary advantage of a union job is the advocacy provided by the union, negotiating for better pay, benefits, and job security. Unions represent workers collectively, giving them a stronger voice in negotiations.

2. Where can you get a job with a union?

Union jobs are prevalent in skilled trades, public services, healthcare, and education. Look for industries with established unions for better opportunities.

3. How do I join a union?

To join a union, you typically must secure employment in a unionized position and agree to pay union dues. Participation in strikes may also be required.

Final Thoughts

Unions have evolved significantly since their inception, continuing to advocate for workers’ rights and fair labor practices. They remain essential in protecting workers from unfair treatment, unsafe conditions, and inadequate compensation.

As the labor market continues to change, unions will play a vital role in shaping the future of work and ensuring fair treatment for all workers.

Author

Abby McCain

Abby is a writer who is passionate about the power of story. Whether it’s communicating complicated topics in a clear way or helping readers connect with another person or place from the comfort of their couch. Abby attended Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she earned a degree in writing with concentrations in journalism and business.