I'm curious about which trade jobs offer the highest salaries. If I'm going to invest in training or an apprenticeship, I'd like to know which trade might provide a good return on investment in terms of pay.
There are several trade jobs that are known for offering high salaries, and they can vary greatly depending on your interests and abilities. Here are a few examples:
1. Elevator technicians: Elevator technicians maintain and repair elevators, escalators, and similar equipment. This job usually requires completing an apprenticeship program and can lead to a median annual wage of about $84,990 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
2. Air traffic controllers: Although it requires only an associate’s degree, this high-stress job is one of the highest paid in the trade industry. The pay is quite high, with median earnings around $130,420 per annum.
3. Nuclear power reactor operators: They manage the core systems of a nuclear power plant, requiring extensive training and high-level skills. The median annual wage is about $100,530.
4. Commercial pilots: Those who pilot charter flights, rescue operations, firefighting operations, and aerial application services, like crop dusting,. A commercial pilot's license and high school diploma are typically required. The median annual wage is about $93,300.
5. Powerhouse, substation, and relay electrical and electronics repairers: These professionals work with the more robust equipment used to power our communities, and their median annual wage comes in at about $82,780.
Remember, while these jobs come with substantial paychecks, they often require a significant investment in education or training, and they can be highly specialized and demanding. Therefore, it's crucial to consider not only the potential income but also the job's requirements and your personal interests when making a decision on which trade to pursue.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.