I'm considering a career in the trades and want to know about high-skilled jobs in this field. What kinds of roles require more expertise and offer higher pay?
Numerous high-skilled jobs in the trade industry are both rewarding and lucrative. Here are some examples:
1. Electrician: Providing services ranging from simple breaker box installation or fixing home outlet systems to ensconcing entire buildings with a functional electrical system. Becoming an electrician requires specialized training, often through a training program apprenticeship, and state licensing.
2. HVAC Technician: They install, repair, and maintain heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. Given the complexity of HVAC systems, this career often requires completing specialized vocational or technical training programs.
3. Plumber: Specialized in the installation and repair of systems used for potable water, sewage, and drainage. Though entry-level roles might require only a high school diploma or equivalent, advancing to a journeyman or master plumber usually requires more in-depth education and experience, including an apprenticeship.
4. Wind Turbine Technician: Working on the rigs of wind farms, inspecting, maintaining, and repairing wind turbines. This field requires training in a specialized program and usually entails a decent amount of physical activity.
5. Elevator Installer/Repairer: They work on elevators, escalators, moving sidewalks, and other similar equipment. These roles typically require completion of a specialized apprenticeship program and state licensing.
6. Construction Manager: This role requires more leadership skills as it involves managing construction projects from the ground up, including overseeing multiple teams of tradesmen, budgeting, and coordinating tasks. Prior construction experience and a degree in construction management can be advantageous, although not always required.
7. Petroleum Technician: They work with the equipment used in the identification, extraction, and production of oil and gas. Because of the high-level expertise required, these positions usually require formal education, such as an associate degree in a relevant field.
Each of these careers offers competitive compensation, but the level of pay often correlates with the level of experience and certification or licensure that you have. Keep in mind that while trade jobs often pay well, they also can involve physical labor and at times challenging conditions. As such, they're most suitable for those who enjoy working with their hands and problem-solving in real time.
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