I'm considering going into a trade after high school instead of college, and I'm curious about which trade jobs offer the best pay in the US. Any recommendations on which ones to look into?
If you're interested in going into a trade and are prioritizing pay, there are several lucrative careers you could consider:
1. Elevator Installers and Repairers: Among trade jobs, elevator installation and repair is typically one of the highest paying. Workers in this field are responsible for installing, repairing, and maintaining elevators, escalators, moving walkways, and similar equipment.
2. Nuclear Medicine Technologists: This job involves preparing and administering radioactive drugs for imaging or therapeutic treatment.
3. Radiation Therapists: In this role, you would administer radiation treatments to patients with cancer and other diseases.
4. Electrical and Electronics Repairers (Powerhouse, Substation, and Relay): Here, you would work on the electrical components that provide power for buildings or for other structures like dams or data centers.
5. Electrical and Electronics Installers (Transportation Equipment): This role involves installing or maintaining electrical equipment in vehicles.
6. Boilermakers: They make, install, and maintain boilers, closed vats, and other large containers that hold gases and liquids.
7. Air Traffic Controllers: If you're interested in aviation, this could be an option. Although there may be additional requirements beyond a typical trade school degree, becoming an air traffic controller can be highly rewarding.
8. Commercial Divers: While not a traditional suggestion, divers who work on underwater construction and repairs can earn surprisingly high wages.
Remember, the right choice for a trade job will also depend on factors other than pay, such as what you're interested in, what jobs are in demand in your area, and what work you find fulfilling. Be sure to research any fields you're considering so you can make an informed decision.
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