What are the top paid trade jobs in the USA?

I'm exploring trade school options and I'm curious about which trade jobs are the highest paying in the US. I'm thinking about potentially pursuing a career in skilled trades, and I want to know what the salary outlook is.

Hey there! It's great that you're considering a career in skilled trades. The demand for trade professionals continues to rise and there are certain trades that tend to be higher-paying. Here are a few:

1. Elevator Technicians: Known for having some of the highest pays in trade professions, elevator technicians install, repair, and maintain elevators, escalators, moving walks, and similar equipment. It's important to note that this job often requires working in high elevation.

2. Boilermakers: These professionals assemble, install, maintain, and repair boilers and other large vessels that house liquids and gases.

3. Power Line Installers and Repairers: These individuals install or fix electrical power systems and telecommunications cables. The job can be physically demanding, and often requires outdoor work in various weather conditions.

4. Pile-driver Operators: The operators handle the machinery to drive piles deep into the ground at building or bridge construction sites, usually working alongside with other construction equipment operators.

5. Nuclear Medicine Technologists: These healthcare workers operate equipment that creates images of areas of a patient’s body. They prepare radioactive drugs and administer them to patients and then monitor the patient’s response to the drug.

6. Dental Hygienists: They predominantly work in dentists' offices, examining patients for signs of oral diseases, cleaning teeth, and providing other preventive dental care.

Each of these jobs require a specific set of skills and certifications, so you'll want to consider the cost and time investment for the necessary training and education when making your decision.

Please note that salaries can vary a lot depending on the region, experience, employer, and industry, but these jobs have relatively high earning potentials. Always conduct thorough research and consider where your interests and skills align when choosing a career. Best of luck with your decision!