I'm looking into trade jobs and want to know which ones offer competitive salaries. Does anyone have a list of trade jobs along with what kind of pay you can expect in each? That would really help as I consider my future.
Sure, I'd be happy to share some information on various trade jobs and their potential salaries. Remember these numbers can fluctuate based on years of experience, the region in which you're working, and the demand for a specific trade.
1. Electrician: They install and repair electrical systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for electricians was about $56,900 in 2020, and the top 10% earned more than $96,580.
2. Plumber: Plumbers install and repair pipes that supply water and gas to, as well as carry waste away from, homes and businesses. In 2020, the median annual wage for plumbers was roughly $56,330, and the top 10% earned more than $98,990.
3. HVACR Technician: These technicians install, maintain, and repair heating, ventilation, cooling, and refrigeration systems. The median annual wage for HVACR technicians was about $50,590 in 2020, and the top 10% earned more than $80,820.
4. Elevator Installer/Repairer: They install, repair, and maintain elevators, escalators, moving walkways, and other lifts. As per the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2020, the median pay was about $86,200, with the top 10% earning more than $125,520.
5. Boilermaker: Boilermakers assemble, install, maintain, and repair boilers, closed vats, and other large vessels or containers that hold liquids and gases. The median annual wage for boilermakers was $65,360 in 2020, and the highest 10% earned more than $88,150.
6. Aircraft Mechanic: Aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians repair and perform scheduled maintenance on aircraft. Their median annual wage was about $65,440 in 2020, with the highest 10% earning more than $101,070.
7. Wind Turbine Technician: These technicians, also known as windtechs, install, maintain, and repair wind turbines. The Bureau of Labor Statistics states the median pay for 2020 was around $56,230, with the top 10% earning more than $83,560.
All these trades are in demand and can lead to promising careers with, in many cases, very competitive salaries. Plus, most jobs in the skilled trades offer a clear path to progression, meaning that with experience and further training, you could see your earnings increase over time.
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