Best Paying Trade Jobs in 2022
It’s no secret that the world of work is changing. With technology rapidly evolving, many traditional white-collar jobs are being replaced by automated processes.
However, there is one sector that continues to grow at a rapid pace: trade jobs. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, trade jobs are expected to grow by 6% between now and the end of 2022. This is great news for those looking for high-paying careers with plenty of growth opportunities!
So, what are the ten highest-paying trade jobs in 2022? The ten highest paying trade jobs in 2022 include:
- Sheet Metal Workers: $62,440/year
- Aircraft mechanics and service technicians: $60,000/year
- Electrical linemen and power line installers: $59,000/year
- Elevator installers and repairers: $58,000/year
- Heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers: $57,000/year
- Industrial machinery mechanics: $56,000/year
- Machinists: $55,000/year
- Millwrights: $54,000/year
- Operating engineers and construction equipment operators: $53,000/year
- Electricians: $53,910/year
In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the top 10 highest-paying trade jobs in America.
What is a Trade Job?
A trade job is defined as a skilled manual or technical occupation that usually requires special training. Examples of trade jobs include electrician, carpenter, welder, plumber, and mechanic.
Why Are Trade Jobs So Popular?
There are many reasons why trade jobs are so popular. First and foremost, trade jobs offer high pay and great benefits. In addition, trade jobs are in high demand, meaning that there are plenty of growth opportunities.
Finally, trade jobs require little to no formal education, making them a great option for those who want to start their career quickly.
The Top Ten Highest Paying Trade Jobs in 2022
Let’s take a closer look at ten of the highest-paying trade jobs in America.
1. Sheet Metal Workers
The highest paying trade job in America is sheet metal worker. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median wage for a sheet metal worker is $62,440/year.
Sheet metal workers are responsible for the fabrication and installation of metal products. They work in a variety of industries, including construction, manufacturing, and transportation.
To become a sheet metal worker, you will need to complete an apprenticeship program.
2. Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians
Next on the list is aircraft mechanics and service technicians. The median wage for this profession is $60,000/year.
Aircraft mechanics and service technicians are responsible for the maintenance and repair of aircraft, making sure each flight is safe. They work in a variety of industries, including airlines, aviation services, and manufacturing.
To become an aircraft mechanic or service technician, you will need to complete an apprenticeship program.
3. Electrical Linemen and Power Line Installers
The third highest paying trade job is electrical linemen and power line installers. The median wage for this profession is $59,000/year.
Electrical lineman and power line installers are responsible for the installation and maintenance of electrical power lines. They work in a variety of industries, including construction, manufacturing, and transportation.
To become an electrical lineman or power line installer, you will need to complete an apprenticeship program.
4. Elevator Installers and Repairers
Fourth on the list is elevator installers and repairers. The median wage for this profession is $58,000/year.
Elevator installers and repairers are responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of elevators. To become an elevator installer or repairer, you will need to complete an apprenticeship program.
5. Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers
Fifth on the list is heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers. The median wage for this profession is $57,000/year.
Heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers are responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems.
To become a heating and air conditioning, or refrigeration mechanic or installer, you will need to complete an apprenticeship program.
6. Industrial Machinery Mechanics
Sixth on the list is industrial machinery mechanics. The median wage for this profession is $56,000/year.
Industrial machinery mechanics are responsible for the maintenance and repair of industrial machinery. They work in a variety of industries, including construction, manufacturing, and transportation.
To become an industrial machinery mechanic, you will need to complete an apprenticeship program.
7. Machinists
Seventh on the list is machinists. The median wage for this profession is $55,000/year.
Machinists are responsible for the manufacturing of metal parts. To become a machinist, you will need to complete an apprenticeship program.
8. Millwrights
Eighth on the list is millwrights. The median wage for this profession is $54,000/year.
Millrights are responsible for the installation and maintenance of machinery. They work in a variety of industries, including construction, manufacturing, and transportation.
To become a millwright, you will need to complete an apprenticeship program.
9. Operating Engineers and Construction Equipment Operators
Ninth on the list are operating engineers and construction equipment operators. The median wage for this profession is $53,000/year.
Operating engineers and construction equipment operators are responsible for the operation of construction equipment. To become an operating engineer or construction equipment operator, you will need to complete an apprenticeship program.
10. Electricians
Tenth on the list is electricians. The median wage for this profession is $53,910/year.
Electricians are responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of electrical systems. To become an electrician, you will need to complete an apprenticeship program.
There are, of course, just several of the top-paying trade jobs. Countless other trade jobs are also in high demand and come with a great salary.
If you are looking for a high-paying career that doesn’t require a four-year degree, then consider one of the many trade jobs out there.
What Trade Jobs Have in Common
All of the jobs on this list have one commonality: they all require an apprenticeship program to be completed. An apprenticeship program is a great way to learn the trade, get experience, and make contacts in the industry.
Many of these jobs also come with great benefits, including healthcare and pension plans. If you are looking for a high-paying career that comes with great benefits, then consider one of the many trade jobs out there.
Education Requirements for Trade Jobs
All of the jobs on this list require a high school diploma or equivalent. However, to become a heating, air conditioning, refrigeration mechanic and installer, an industrial machinery mechanic, machinist, millwright, operating engineer or construction equipment operator, or electrician you will need to complete an apprenticeship program.
If you are interested in one of these trades jobs, then start researching apprenticeship programs in your area. You may be surprised at how many there are!
Benefits of Working a Trade Job
The benefits of working in a trade job are numerous and include good pay, hours, training, and experience necessary, as well as benefits such as healthcare and retirement.
Demand is Great
Trade jobs are in high demand, so you don’t have to worry about finding a job after completing your training. You will also have the opportunity to learn a trade that you can use for the rest of your life.
There is a Trade Job for Everyone
No matter what your interests or skills are, there is a trade job out there for you. If you are looking for a high-paying career with great benefits, then consider one of the many trade jobs available.
Good Pay and Benefits
Trade jobs come with good pay and benefits, which is another reason why they are in high demand. If you are looking for a career that comes with great pay and benefits including healthcare, then consider one of the many trade jobs out there.
Many trade jobs come with a great salary. Some of the top-paying trade jobs include electricians, heating and air conditioning mechanics and installers, industrial machinery mechanics, machinists, millwrights, operating engineers construction equipment operators, and welders.
These fields require hard work, often in less than ideal conditions, but the pay and benefits are well worth it. There is something for everyone when it comes to trade jobs. No matter what your interests or skills are, there is a trade job out there for you.
Other Popular Trade Jobs in 2022
In addition to the top-paying trade jobs mentioned previously, there are numerous other trade jobs available. Some of the other popular trade jobs in 2022 include:
- Plumber
- Mechanic
- Carpenter
- HVAC Technician
- Welder
- Construction Worker
Regardless of your skills or interests, there is a trade job out there for you.
In Conclusion
Trade jobs are in high demand and come with good pay and benefits. If you are looking for a career that comes with great pay and benefits, then consider one of the many trade jobs out there. There is something for everyone when it comes to trade jobs, so find one that interests you and get started!
Related Questions
Are there any trade jobs for people without a college degree?
Yes, there are many trade jobs available for people without a college degree. All of the jobs on this list require an apprenticeship program to be completed.
Is it hard to get a trade job after completing an apprenticeship?
No, it is not hard to get a trade job after completing an apprenticeship. There are many jobs available in this field, and the demand for trade workers is high. Additionally, many workers get job offers at the company with which they completed their apprenticeship. This is an excellent way to get your foot in the door to start your career.
