You don’t have to work in a corporate office to increase your salary. Trade jobs are great career options that don’t require a 4-year degree, are in high demand, and many have the potential to earn six figures as your seniority grows.
?
However, breaking into the highest-paying trade jobs may require some schooling or work experience. Several trades have low barriers of entry where you can even get paid to learn with an apprenticeship or other on-the-job training options. Other education requirements may include trade schools, associates degrees, certifications, or licenses.
But what actually qualifies as a trade job?
Key points:
- There are trade jobs that pay over $60,000 and have low barriers of entry.
- The highest-paying trade jobs are aircraft mechanics, sonographers, IT system administrators, and occupational therapy assistants.
- Several of the highest-paying trades don't require a college degree, but may require certifications, licenses, or trade school programs.
- Entry-level trade workers can gain experience through paid apprenticeships or other on-the-job training options.
- Well-paid trades that don't require experience but provide on-the-job training include carpenters, tattoo artists, and electricians.
- Trades that provide paid apprenticeships include plumbers and carpenters.
- Several trade workers, such as electricians and iron workers, are protected by unions which provide higher pay with better benefits than non-union workers.
- Our Salary Database has access to more high-paying trade job titles.
What are trade jobs?
Trade jobs are careers that require specialized training, involve working with one's hands, and typically focus on a specific skill or craft. They exist in various industries, such as construction, manufacturing, transportation, and maintenance. There are also lesser-known careers that qualify as trade jobs, such as medical trades, cosmetic trades, and technical trades.
Several trade jobs are also union jobs. Union jobs are positions in which workers are represented by a labor union, which is an organized group that negotiates wages, pay raises, benefits, and working conditions on behalf of its members. Because of this, they tend to be some of the highest-paying jobs.
?
According to Union Plus, Union workers make 30% more than non-union workers and 92% of union workers have job-related health coverage versus 68% of non-union workers. Many also have guaranteed pensions, which is extremely rare in today’s job market.
17 Highest-Paying Trade Jobs With Low Barriers of Entry
Use this list of 17 top-paying trade jobs in demand for 2024 and their requirements to start thinking about next steps to take in your career.
This list was put together using salary information from Glassdoor where you can also view open roles for each position. Job growth information was pulled from the Occupational Outlook Handbook from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
All jobs below are listed from highest to lowest salaries. Keep in mind that the numbers below may change depending on your location. You may notice that the higher paying trades may include more education requirements such as completing accredited programs and obtaining licenses, but keep in mind that those may change depending on the company and state.
Our Salary Database is another great resource for salary reporting. Thankfully, pay transparency laws and the salary transparency movement has allowed for easy access to that salary information.
?
1. Aircraft Mechanic
Aircraft mechanics are responsible for maintaining, repairing, and inspecting aircraft to ensure they are safe to fly. They work with engines, landing gear, brakes, electrical systems, and other mechanisms for both airplanes and helicopters. They also perform both structural and avionics maintenance while making sure they stay compliant with regulations.
Precision is extremely important in aircraft maintenance, as even the smallest of errors can have serious consequences. Aircraft mechanics must have keen attention to detail to ensure that all repairs and inspections are carried out correctly.
Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent, and certification from a Part 147 FAA-approved aviation maintenance technician school.
Work experience required: None
Median annual salary: $105,596
Total potential pay: $79,000 - $142,000
Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 4%
2. Sonographer
A sonographer is a medical trade worker who uses ultrasound technology to create images of internal organs, tissues, and blood flow patterns within the body. These images, called sonograms or ultrasounds, help physicians diagnose and monitor medical conditions in patients.
Sonographers must have the ability to understand how to use ultrasound technology and equipment, as well as good communication skills to convey information clearly when discussing images with the healthcare team.
Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent, and depending on the company and state, completion of an accredited sonography program or sonography certification. License requirements vary by state.
Work experience required: Some companies may require work experience but clinical hours from certificate programs normally fit requirements.
Median annual salary: $98,732
Total potential pay: $77,000 - $128,000
Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 10%
3. IT System Administrator
?
System administrators are technical trade workers that are responsible for managing and maintaining a company’s computer systems, networks, and infrastructure.
This trade requires a high level of technical proficiency and some programming skills to be able to work with different types of hardware and software. They should also possess problem-solving skills for troubleshooting and reverse engineering problems. These can be learned through specific programs, online courses, or on the job.
Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent. Some companies will hire without a degree if there is some work experience such as working in a help desk IT support role or past freelance experience. Other companies may require an associate's degree, completion of a technical trade program, or specific certifications for specialists.
Work experience required: It depends on the company and role. Typically no prior experience is required when education qualifications are fulfilled.
Median annual salary: $90,396
Total potential pay: $71,000 - $116,000
Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 2%
4. Occupational Therapy Assistant
?
Occupational therapy assistants (OTAs) work under the supervision of licensed occupational therapists to provide rehabilitative services to individuals with physical, developmental, or emotional challenges. Their role is to help patients live independently through developing goals and improving their ability to perform daily tasks and activities.
Due to their close interaction with people, they must possess genuine empathy and compassion along with strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent, and completion of an accredited occupational therapy assistant program, certification, and license. Follow the steps lined out by the American Occupational Therapy Association.
Work experience required: There are some fieldwork requirements, but those are already required when applying for a license.
Median annual salary: $86,455
Total potential pay: $67,000 - $111,000
Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 23%
5. Radiology Technician
Working as a radiology technician is another medical trade in which they perform diagnostic imaging procedures to help physicians treat their patients. They operate imaging equipment such as X-ray machines, computed tomography (CT) scanners, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machines, and fluoroscopy equipment to produce images of the inside of the body.
They must possess radiation safety knowledge and math skills to calculate the right amount of radiation emitted in imaging procedures. Technical skills are also required to operate imaging equipment and technology.
Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent, and completion of an accredited program. The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) accredits programs in radiography. It depends on the state if licenses or certifications are required.
Work experience required: None
Median annual salary: $85,861
Total potential pay: $70,000 - $105,000
Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 6%
6. Web/Graphic Designer
?
Web and graphic designers are creative professionals responsible for designing visual elements for websites, digital media, print materials, and other marketing collateral. They usually work within design teams that work with different departments such as product, marketing, and technical teams for projects.
Web and graphic designers must have both creative and technical skills to be able to use different software for crafting designs. As they become more experienced in their career, they can move on to other higher-paying roles like UX design.
Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent. Some companies may require completion of a technical trade school program. But you may not need specific education credentials if you can demonstrate prior related work experience or project work.
Work experience required: None but some companies may require internships or apprenticeships (which you can learn on the job). Portfolios of past work based on personal projects, school projects, or freelance projects can also be shown in the place of work experience.
Median annual salary: $82,695
Total potential pay: $65,000 - $105,000
Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 16%
7. Union Plumber Pipefitter
?
Union plumbers and pipefitters install and repair piping systems for homes, businesses, factories, and other places. They work with various materials, including copper, PVC, steel, and cast iron, to create piping systems for water supply, drainage, heating, and cooling.
Skills required are mechanical skills for using different types of tools and maneuvering them precisely. Troubleshooting skills are also required to be able to quickly find and repair problems.
Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent, and an apprenticeship where they get paid while training on the job. License requirements depend on your state.
Work experience required: None
Median annual salary: $82,313
Total potential pay: $66,000 - $102,000
Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 2%
8. Automotive Mechanic
?
Automotive mechanics specialize in diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining vehicles, including cars, trucks, and motorcycles. They work in various settings, including dealerships and repair shops, and the work experience and education requirements may vary from shop-to-shop.
Mechanics need to have a strong understanding of vehicle systems and components and stay updated on the latest automotive technology. They should know how to use a variety of tools and equipment to perform repairs and maintenance. Even though they may learn some of this from hands-on training during certification programs, they can continue to build their expertise through on-the-job training.
Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent. Although some mechanics may not be certified, most shops require certification from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence.
Work experience required: None
Median annual salary: $$81,409
Total potential pay: $65,000 - $103,000
Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 2%
9. Massage Therapist
Massage therapists are healthcare professionals who use touch and manipulation techniques to provide therapeutic relief to clients. They work in a variety of settings, including spas, wellness centers, and medical offices.
Important skills to have include the ability to evaluate the needs of their clients and recommend treatments. They must also be physically capable to apply pressure and manipulate muscles while administering massage therapy.
Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent and massage therapy education programs. Currently, 45 states require massage therapists to be licensed.
Work experience required: None but some companies may require internships or apprenticeships (which you can learn on the job). Some companies like to see portfolios of past work based on personal projects, school projects, or freelance projects.
Median annual salary: $75,542
Total potential pay: $57,000 - $100,000
Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 18%
10. Tattoo Artist
?
A tattoo artist creates permanent designs on the skin using tattooing techniques and equipment. They work in tattoo studios or shops, where they provide tattoo services to clients seeking personalized body art.
Tattoo artists usually possess artistic talent, creativity and innovation, and technical tattooing skills. They must also pay close attention to detail when applying tattoos since they are permanent.
Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent, and on-the-job training through apprenticeships that lead to certification or a license.
Work experience required: None
Median annual salary: $60,663
Total potential pay: $49,000 - $76,000
Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 4%
11. Union Electrician
?
Union electricians are skilled tradespeople who specialize in the installation, maintenance, and repair of electrical systems. A few of their key duties include inspections, troubleshooting, making upgrades, reading blueprints, and following safety protocols.
Good skills to have as an electrician include color vision to identify wires by color, critical thinking skills, and physical strength.
Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent, and an apprenticeship where they get paid while training on the job.
Work experience required: None
Median annual salary: $70,000
Total potential pay: $53,000 - $91,000
Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 6%
12. Nail Technician
?
Nail technicians specialize in providing nail care services to clients. Their primary focus is enhancing the appearance and health of clients' nails, hands, and feet. Their responsibilities include manicures, pedicures, nail art and design, and health and sanitation, among many others.
Nail techs should have a high attention to detail, creative abilities, and customer service skills. Nail technicians who run their own salons must understand business principles to manage a salon and make it profitable.
Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent. State licensing requirements vary.
Work experience required: None
Median annual salary: $68,398
Total potential pay: $51,000 - $94,000
Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 9%
13. Hair Colorist
?
Hair colorists specialize in applying hair color treatments to enhance the look of their client’s hair. They use various coloring techniques and products to achieve desired hair color results. Responsibilities include consulting clients, hair color techniques, lightening hair, color correction, and general hair care and maintenance.
Hair colorists should have a strong understanding of color theory to create hair color combinations that complement clients' features.
Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent, completion of a state-approved cosmetology program, and state license. License requirements vary by state.
Work experience required: None
Median annual salary: $66,137
Total potential pay: $50,000 - $89,000
Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 9%
14. Esthetician
Estheticians are licensed professionals who specialize in providing skin care services to clients. They usually work in spas, salons, skincare clinics, or medical spas. Their responsibilities may include skincare analysis, facial treatments, and consultation, among many others.
Skills used include skincare knowledge, hygiene and sanitation practices, and good communication skills to provide customer service.
Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent, completion of a cosmetology or esthetician program, and state license. Licensing requirements vary by state.
Work experience required: None
Median annual salary: $64,139
Total potential pay: $46,000 - $80,000
Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 9%
15. Union Carpenter
?
Carpenters work with wood and other materials to construct various structures and fixtures. Their work encompasses a wide range of tasks in the construction industry, from framing buildings to crafting custom furniture.
Skills that are helpful as a carpenter include reading blueprints, carpentry techniques, and a high attention to detail. They should also be familiar with using hand tools and power tools.
Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent, and training is usually done on the job through paid apprenticeships.
Work experience required: None
Median annual salary: $64,000
Total potential pay: $52,000 - $80,000
Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 1%
16. Commercial HVAC Technician
Commercial HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) technicians specialize in the installation, maintenance, repair, and servicing of HVAC systems in commercial and industrial buildings.
Their skills usually include technical HVAC knowledge, and mechanical and electrical skills. Commercial HVAC technicians should also have strong diagnostic skills to identify and resolve HVAC system issues.
Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent, and on-the-job training through apprenticeships and other training programs.
Work experience required: None
Median annual salary: $63,376
Total potential pay: $51,000 - $79,000
Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 6%
17. Union Iron Worker
?
Ironworkers fabricate and install structural iron and steel components used in construction projects. They work primarily with iron, steel, and other metal materials to build frameworks, structures, bridges, and other infrastructure.
Skills needed include metalworking skills, the ability to read blueprints, and physical strength to handle heavy steel. They’ll also need to be able to work at great heights and walk on narrow beams.
Entry-level education required: High school diploma, and on-the-job training through apprenticeships.
Work experience required: None
Median annual salary: $62,456
Total potential pay: $50,000 - $79,000
Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 2%
Frequently Asked Questions About Trade Jobs
How do I know what trade job is right for me?
Choosing the right trade job for you involves considering various factors, including your interests, skills, personality traits, career goals, and lifestyle preferences. For example, if you’re curious about the human body and are normally interested in medical subjects, you should explore medical trades.
Can you make 6 figures in a trade?
Many trade workers don’t start out making 6 figures right away but can grow their salaries to six figures as their seniority grows. Union workers may hit 6 figures quicker than non-union workers due to high overtime pay by the hour.
?
Discussing salary with coworkers can also help get a good idea of how much you can expect to make as you build your experience.
What is the highest-paying trade job?
The highest-paying trade workers include sonographers and dental hygienists. However, dental hygienists have more education requirements and longer programs.
Which is the quickest trade to learn?
The "quickest" trade to learn can vary depending on factors such as your existing skills, interests, and the specific trade's requirements. Trades that tend to have shorter programs are welding and construction, although they aren’t the highest-paying trades.
Do trade jobs require a college degree?
Trade jobs don't require a bachelor's degree, but some may require an associate's degree, licensing, or certifications. Several trades only require a high school diploma and workers get paid to learn on the job.
How to Get Into a Skilled Trade
There are tons of high-paying trade jobs that require minimal schooling and paid training so you get hands-on experience as you learn your job. This is the complete opposite of paying thousands on a bachelor's degree that doesn’t provide any sort of experience.
If you have a trade in mind, the Occupational Outlook Handbook from the U.S. The Bureau of Labor Statistics is a great resource for looking up each trade, the requirements for it, and information on how to actually land the job.
For trades that require program completion with a certification, the handbook has links for which ones are accredited and are better to take. This way you’re not confused about how to proceed forward. You can also search job sites for any trade position to see what current trade jobs are requiring.
Our YouTube channel is another great resource for learning more about different professions and how much they make.
Don’t forget to browse our Salary Database and join the movement!
That wraps it up for this week. Until then, stay awesome, stay strong, and keep advocating for yourself no matter what! I’m Daniella, a writer, engineer, and creator of I Like to Dabble and Remote Work Bestie - my blog and podcast for leveling up your money, career, and side hustles. I’m extremely passionate about workers' rights and financial freedom, so it’s a pleasure to be able to bring you this type of content through the Salary Transparent Street blog (thank you for the opportunity, Hannah!) You can also follow me on Instagram, TikTok, Linkedin, and Twitter. Chat soon!
Do you know if you're being underpaid? Take our free quiz to find out!
Need help determining your market rate? Download our free Market Research Guide to learn what you should be making.
Explore over 5,000+ individually reported salaries nationwide across all industries in our Salary Database!
Follow us on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and LinkedIn for daily pay transparency interviews and career news you can use!
Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for news updates, professional deep dives, learning opportunities, and more!
Send us an email ➡️ hello@salarytransparentstreet.com
