Trade jobs are high in demand with some careers growing in the double digits like jobs in energy, mechanics, and healthcare, for example. What’s great about these jobs is that in exchange for minimum requirements like a high school education, you gain the opportunity to work in a stable, well-paying industry.
Quickstart Guide To Landing A High-Paying Trade Job
- Update your resume. Start by updating your resume. You can work with a resume writing service if you need assistance.
- Start applying for jobs on ZipRecruiter. ZipRecruiter is free for job seekers and you can apply for jobs with one click! ZipRecruiter also allows you to upload your resume to their resume database so that recruiters and employers can find you!
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15 Of The Best Paying Trade Jobs
1. Elevator Mechanic
Median National Salary: $102,420/year
Education Required: High school diploma
Number of Jobs: 24,400
Job Growth 2023 – 2033: 6% (Faster than average)
Job Duties: An elevator mechanic is responsible for installing, repairing, and maintaining elevators, escalators, and other vertical transportation systems. They must be knowledgeable about elevator mechanics, electrical systems, and safety regulations, and use analytical and problem-solving skills to identify and address technical issues related to elevator systems, while ensuring that the equipment meets safety and performance standards.
2. Nuclear Medicine Technologist
Median National Salary: $92,500/year
Education Required: Associate’s degree
Number of Jobs: 17,800
Job Growth 2023 – 2033: -1% (Decline)
Job Duties: A nuclear medicine technologist is responsible for preparing and administering radioactive isotopes in therapeutic, diagnostic, and tracer studies, and capturing images that a physician will use to diagnose an infection or disorder. They must be knowledgeable about radiation safety and patient care, and use communication and technical skills to ensure that patients receive accurate and high-quality care.
3. Radiation Therapist
Median National Salary: $98,300/year
Education Required: Associate’s degree
Number of Jobs: 17,200
Job Growth 2023 – 2033: 3% (As fast as average)
Job Duties: A radiation therapist is responsible for administering radiation treatments to cancer patients as prescribed by an oncologist. They must be knowledgeable about radiation therapy equipment and procedures, and use communication and technical skills to ensure that patients receive accurate and high-quality care, while monitoring their reactions to treatment and providing support and advice to alleviate side effects.
4. Industrial Mechanic
Median National Salary: $61,170/year
Education Required: High school diploma
Number of Jobs: 530,800
Job Growth 2023 – 2033: 15% (Much faster than average)
Job Duties: An industrial mechanic is responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing industrial machinery and equipment such as conveyor systems, turbines, and production machines. They must be knowledgeable about mechanical systems and use diagnostic tools and procedures to identify and address technical issues, while ensuring that the equipment is functioning safely and efficiently.
5. Medical Sonographer
Median National Salary: $80,850/year
Education Required: Associate’s degree
Number of Jobs: 143,400
Job Growth 2023 – 2033: 11% (Much faster than average)
Job Duties: A medical sonographer is responsible for operating ultrasound equipment to create images of internal organs and tissues for diagnostic purposes. They must be knowledgeable about medical terminology, anatomy, and ultrasound technology, and use communication and technical skills to ensure that patients receive accurate and high-quality care, while working closely with physicians to interpret and report findings.
6. Pipefitter
Median National Salary: $61,550/year
Education Required: High school diploma
Number of Jobs: 473,400
Job Growth 2023 – 2033: 6% (Faster than average)
Job Duties: A pipefitter is responsible for installing, repairing, and maintaining piping systems that transport fluids, gases, or chemicals in industrial, commercial, or residential settings. They must be knowledgeable about pipefitting tools, materials, and safety regulations, and use analytical and problem-solving skills to identify and address technical issues related to piping systems, while ensuring that the systems meet performance and safety standards.
7. Real Estate Appraiser
Median National Salary: $61,630/year
Education Required: Bachelor’s degree
Number of Jobs: 83,900
Job Growth 2023 – 2033: 4% (As fast as average)
Job Duties: A real estate appraiser is responsible for conducting formal appraisals of real property or land before it is sold, mortgaged, taxed, insured, or developed. They must be knowledgeable about real estate market trends and regulations, and use analytical and research skills to evaluate properties and establish market values and property ratings, while ensuring that the appraisals meet industry standards and legal requirements.
8. Respiratory Therapist
Median National Salary: $77,960/year
Education Required: Associate’s degree
Number of Jobs: 133,900
Job Growth 2023 – 2033: 13% (Much faster than average)
Job Duties: A respiratory therapist is responsible for assessing, treating, and caring for patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders, such as asthma, emphysema, or pneumonia. They must be knowledgeable about respiratory therapy equipment and procedures, and use communication and technical skills to ensure that patients receive accurate and high-quality care, while monitoring their reactions to treatment and providing support and advice to alleviate symptoms.
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9. Electronics Technician
Median National Salary: $67,220/year
Education Required: Bachelor’s degree
Number of Jobs: 119,600
Job Growth 2023 – 2033: 1% (Slower than average)
Job Duties: An electronics technician is responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing electronic systems and devices such as computers, communication equipment, and control systems. They must be knowledgeable about electronics principles and use diagnostic tools and procedures to identify and address technical issues, while ensuring that the equipment is functioning safely and efficiently.
10. Dental Hygienist
Median National Salary: $87,530/year
Education Required: Associate’s degree
Number of Jobs: 214,100
Job Growth 2023 – 2033: 9% (Much faster than average)
Job Duties: A dental hygienist is responsible for cleaning teeth, examining patients for signs of oral diseases such as gingivitis, and providing preventive care, such as fluoride treatments. They must be knowledgeable about dental hygiene procedures and use communication and technical skills to ensure that patients receive accurate and high-quality care, while working closely with dentists to identify and treat oral health issues.
If you want to become a dental hygienist, explore our guide on how to write a dental hygienist resume.
11. Landscape Architect
Median National Salary: $79,320/year
Education Required: Bachelor’s degree
Number of Jobs: 24,700
Job Growth 2023 – 2033: 5% (As fast as average)
Job Duties: A landscape architect is responsible for designing outdoor spaces such as parks, gardens, and commercial or residential properties, while considering factors such as environmental impact, sustainability, and aesthetics. They must be knowledgeable about landscape design principles, horticulture, and engineering, and use communication and technical skills to work with clients and construction professionals to ensure that the final product meets the needs and specifications of the project.
12. Construction Inspector
Median National Salary: $67,700/year
Education Required: High school diploma
Number of Jobs: 142,600
Job Growth 2023 – 2033: 0% (Little or no change)
Job Duties: A construction inspector is responsible for inspecting and monitoring construction sites and projects to ensure that they comply with building codes, safety regulations, and quality standards. They must be knowledgeable about construction processes and materials, and use analytical and problem-solving skills to identify and address technical issues, while ensuring that the construction meets industry standards and legal requirements.
13. IT Support
Median National Salary: $60,810/year
Education Required: Trade school
Number of Jobs: 892,000
Job Growth 2023 – 2033: 6% (Faster than average)
Job Duties: An IT support person is responsible for providing technical assistance and support to users who have hardware or software problems with their computer or other electronic devices. They must be knowledgeable about computer systems, software applications, and troubleshooting procedures, and use communication and technical skills to ensure that users receive accurate and timely assistance, while documenting and tracking issues to ensure that they are resolved efficiently.
14. HVAC Mechanic
Median National Salary: $57,300/year
Education Required: Trade school
Number of Jobs: 441,200
Job Growth 2023 – 2033: 9% (Much faster than average)
Job Duties: An HVAC mechanic is responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, equipment, and components, including refrigeration, low temp, and air conditioning equipment. They must be knowledgeable about HVAC systems and use diagnostic tools and procedures to identify and address technical issues, while ensuring that the systems are functioning safely and efficiently.
15. Telecommunications Technicians
Median National Salary: $62,350/year
Education Required: Trade school
Number of Jobs: 276,500
Job Growth 2023 – 2033: -3% (Decline)
Job Duties: A telecommunications technician is responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing telecommunications systems and equipment such as phone lines, internet connections, and other communication devices. They must be knowledgeable about telecommunications technology and use diagnostic tools and procedures to identify and address technical issues, while ensuring that the systems are functioning safely and efficiently.
What Is The Trade Industry?
Trade jobs are careers within reach for many workers willing to get trained to do the job. If you have a high school diploma and you’re willing to learn, then you can work in the trade industry in a variety of different positions.
The training required to work in these careers typically comes from a trade school. Unlike a four-year degree program you’d get from a college or university, trade school programs are set up much differently.
First, the curriculum is centered around the trade you’re learning, like respiratory therapy, dental hygiene, mechanics, medical technology, etc.
Next, the time it takes to complete the training program and start working in your career is a lot shorter compared to going to a four-year college. A lot of elective courses that round out your degree plan in a four-year degree plan aren’t part of the process, which is a feature some people really like. It’s what helps cut down the time it takes to complete the program.
Many trade school programs take up to two years or less to complete. Then, you’ll be ready to move onto your trade career.
Trade careers come with a lot of perks you might not know about, like:
- A lucrative salary and total compensation package
- Strong work-life balance
- Fast-paced, engaging work
- Career advancement opportunities
Discover Your Dream Job Find jobs near you and apply with 1 click! New jobs posted daily.
Requirements And Skills To Find A Good-Paying Job In The Trade Industry
Trade careers can have requirements and skills needed for the job, depending on the career field you’re in. Regardless of the trade career you choose, possessing these skills can help you go far in any trade:
- Communication skills: Possessing strong communication skills is about practicing active listening, being able to provide feedback and communicate well with peers, supervisors and other stakeholders in the organization.
- Work ethic: A strong work ethic means you’re a hard worker. This is a great skill in any industry, especially trades. You take pride in your work which includes performing your job duties well, being punctual, deadline-driven, and striving to be an excellent asset to your team.
- Time management and organizational skills: Being well-organized and managing your time are important soft skills to have while working in this career field. It means you can balance your workload and complete your work tasks effectively and efficiently.
- Critical thinking and problem-solving skills: This is about having the skills to identify and solve problems on the go, which is a desirable skill for the trade job industry where you may be required to diagnose problems and apply solutions on your own.
How Do You Get A Good-Paying Trade Job?
Getting a good-paying trade career can be a result of:
- Having the knowledge, skills and experience to work in the trade industry
- Preparing a professional resume to accompany your job applications
- Conducting a thorough job search
When it’s time to start applying for jobs, you’ll want to check out the best resume writing services that you can use to create a winning resume for you. A professional resume tailored to the jobs you apply for can set you apart from the competition and be the key to landing the job!
Where To Find High-Paying Trade Jobs
Online Job Posting Sites
Online job posting sites are a great place to find high-paying trade jobs. ZipRecruiter is one of our top picks.
ZipRecruiter is an online career search website where you can easily search for trade jobs and other careers from around the web. It’s a one stop shop for your career searching, giving you access to tools and resources like jobseeker reviews, salary insights, and more.
Check out our ZipRecruiter review to learn more.
Discover Your Dream Job Find jobs near you and apply with 1 click! New jobs posted daily.
Niche Sites
Niche sites in the trade industry are also great places to find high-paying trade jobs. Here are a few that we would recommend:
Career Fairs
Career fairs are a good place to find a high-paying trade job because they provide job seekers with the opportunity to meet with potential employers face-to-face. Job seekers can learn more about the company and the job requirements, and employers can get a sense of the job seeker's skills and qualifications.
Additionally, career fairs often have a range of employers from different industries, providing job seekers with a variety of high-paying trade job options to choose from.
The Bottom Line
The trade industry is a multi-trillion dollar industry, expected to continue growth and be around for a long time. If you’ve graduated high school and unsure which direction to take your career or you’re ready for a career change, working in a trade field can be a lasting, fruitful and rewarding job path to take.
When you’re ready to begin your career search, visit ZipRecruiter to get started!
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