Top Trade Jobs in Demand (and What They Pay)

🔧 Introduction: Why Trade Jobs Are in High Demand

In today’s evolving job market, skilled trades are more in demand than ever. While many industries are facing worker shortages, skilled trades like electricians, plumbers, and welders continue to offer job security, great salaries, and opportunities for career advancement.

The best part? Most trade jobs don’t require a four-year degree. Instead, you can learn the skills needed through apprenticeships, technical schools, and certification programs—often in less time than a traditional degree.

Let’s take a look at some of the top trade jobs in demand and what you can expect to earn if you decide to go down this career path.

🏗️ Top 5 In-Demand Trade Jobs and Their Salaries

1. Electricians

Electricians are always in demand. As residential, commercial, and industrial properties continue to grow, the need for qualified electricians to install, repair, and maintain electrical systems increases.

• What They Do: Install and maintain electrical systems, wiring, and lighting in homes, businesses, and industrial facilities. They also troubleshoot electrical problems.
• Salary: The average salary for an electrician in the U.S. is $56,000 per year, but highly skilled electricians can earn up to $90,000+ per year.
• Growth Outlook: Employment of electricians is expected to grow by 8% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations.

2. Plumbers

Plumbing is another essential trade that is always in demand. From new construction to ongoing maintenance, plumbers are needed to install and repair water systems, heating systems, and waste management.

• What They Do: Install and repair pipes that carry water, gas, and waste in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. They also handle emergency plumbing repairs and maintenance.
• Salary: The average salary for a plumber is around $56,000 per year, but with experience and specializations, you can earn up to $80,000–$100,000 per year.
• Growth Outlook: Plumber employment is projected to grow 5% from 2020 to 2030, due to population growth and the need for new construction.

3. Welders

Welders work in a variety of industries, from construction and manufacturing to shipbuilding and automotive. Skilled welders are needed to fuse metal parts together, ensuring the structural integrity of everything from pipelines to vehicles.

• What They Do: Use high heat to melt and fuse metal pieces together. Welders also inspect and maintain welding equipment, as well as read blueprints and schematics.
• Salary: The average welder earns around $44,000 per year, but specialized welders in industries like aerospace can earn upwards of $60,000 per year.
• Growth Outlook: The demand for welders is expected to grow by 3% from 2020 to 2030. As manufacturing continues to expand, welding roles will be in high demand.

4. HVAC Technicians

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) technicians ensure that buildings remain comfortable and energy-efficient. They install, maintain, and repair HVAC systems in homes, office buildings, and factories.

• What They Do: Install and repair heating, cooling, and refrigeration systems. HVAC technicians also provide maintenance services and troubleshoot system issues.
• Salary: The average HVAC technician makes around $50,000 per year, with top earners making up to $75,000–$80,000 per year.
• Growth Outlook: HVAC employment is projected to grow 4% from 2020 to 2030, as the demand for energy-efficient systems continues to increase.

5. Carpenters

Carpenters are essential in the construction of homes, buildings, and other structures. Whether they’re building frameworks or installing cabinetry, carpenters are skilled tradespeople that play a key role in both new construction and renovations.

• What They Do: Build and install the structures and fixtures used in construction, from foundations and framing to stairs, windows, and doors.
• Salary: Carpenters earn an average salary of $49,000 per year, but with experience, carpenters can earn $70,000+.
• Growth Outlook: The demand for carpenters is projected to grow 8% from 2020 to 2030, with residential and commercial construction driving growth.

🏅 How to Get Started in a Trade Career

One of the best aspects of pursuing a trade job is the relatively low barrier to entry. You don’t need a four-year degree to get started—many trade professionals enter the field through:

1. Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships are paid, on-the-job training programs that typically last 2-5 years. Apprentices work under experienced professionals and gain hands-on experience while also taking classes related to their trade.
How to find apprenticeships:

• Look for trade unions or associations in your area that offer apprenticeship programs (e.g., National Electrical Contractors Association for electricians).
• Check job boards like Indeed, LinkedIn, and specialized trade sites for apprenticeship opportunities.

2. Trade Schools and Certifications

Trade schools provide focused, hands-on training in specific fields, and many offer certification programs. These programs can take anywhere from a few months to a couple of years to complete, depending on the trade.
Popular schools and programs:

• HVAC Certification: Schools like the Refrigeration School, Inc. and Universal Technical Institute offer programs.
• Plumbing and Electrical Programs: Many community colleges and technical schools provide focused training.

3. On-the-Job Training

Some trades, especially construction-related roles, offer on-the-job training in addition to formal apprenticeships. You can often start as an entry-level helper and work your way up to a fully qualified journeyman.

📈 The Future of Trade Jobs

As demand for skilled workers grows and industries continue to expand, trade jobs will remain an essential part of the economy. Furthermore, with the rise of technology in the trades, such as smart HVAC systems and advanced welding techniques, the need for skilled workers who can work with new technologies will continue to rise.

Whether you’re just starting out or considering a career switch, now is a great time to pursue a career in the trades. These jobs offer great salaries, job security, and a chance to work in dynamic, hands-on environments.

🎯 Conclusion: Trade Jobs Are More Than Just a Backup Plan

Trade careers are essential to the economy—and they’re more in-demand than ever. From electricians to HVAC technicians, these roles not only offer job security but also an excellent earning potential without the need for a college degree. With growing job opportunities, a future-proof career in the trades could be exactly what you're looking for.

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