I'm interested in trade jobs and looking for ones that pay well. What are some high paying trade jobs that I should consider once I finish high school? Any insights on salary ranges would be appreciated!
Absolutely, there are several high-paying trade jobs that you can consider. It's a great option if you're looking for a career path that doesn't require a conventional four-year degree.
1. Elevator Technician: Also known as elevator installers or repairers, they are responsible for the installation, repair, and maintenance of elevators, escalators, and similar equipment. Nationwide, the median pay in 2020 was about $84,990 per year according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The top 10% of workers in this trade earned more than $121,500.
2. Radiation Therapist: In healthcare, radiation therapists are in high demand. They operate machines that deliver concentrated radiation therapy to patients' tumors. As of 2020, the median pay for radiation therapists was $85,560 per year, with the top 10% earning more than $128,630.
3. Nuclear Technician: Another high-paying job in the health sector is a nuclear technician. They assist physicists, engineers, and other professionals in nuclear research and nuclear energy production. The median annual wage for nuclear technicians was $82,080 in 2020, with the top 10% earning more than $108,160.
4. Electrical and Electronics Repairers (Powerhouse, Substation, and Relay): These workers maintain and repair electrical equipment in power generating stations, substations, and in-service relays. In 2020, their median pay was $80,200, with the top 10% earning more than $105,060.
5. Boilermaker: Boilermakers assemble, install, maintain, and repair boilers, closed vats, and other large vessels that hold liquids and gases. The median annual wage for boilermakers was $63,100 in 2020.
6. Plumber: Plumbers install and repair pipes that carry water, waste, and gas in homes, offices, and factories. The median annual wage for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters was $55,160 in 2020, with experienced workers potentially earning over $98,000 a year.
Remember, while these jobs can pay very well, they do require hands-on training either through a vocational program, on-the-job training, or an apprenticeship. So, you'll need to consider the time, costs, and your personal interest in the field before you commit.
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