Demand for housing and new infrastructure is growing at an incredibly fast pace. Because of this, construction workers are in high demand, and this field is projected to add thousands of new jobs in the next 10 years.
For this article, we have gathered some of the highest paying jobs in construction. Some of these jobs require a trade school or college education, while some only require a high school diploma or GED equivalent.
Construction Manager
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, construction managers plan, direct, and coordinate all aspects of a construction project. They are in charge of sticking to specific time frames, staying in budgets, ensuring the work adheres to local building codes and regulations, and making sure everything goes as planned.
Construction manager positions often require bachelor’s degrees in construction science, construction management, or engineering.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that construction managers earned an average of $116,960 in 2023. The BLS also predicts that by 2032, demand for construction managers will increase by 5 percent, which is slightly faster than the national average.
Plumber
Plumbers install and repair pipes and plumbing in various settings. They decipher blueprints and choose materials suited for the job. They create indoor plumbing, sprinkler systems, and more. Plumbers are responsible for adhering to local codes and regulations for plumbing works, and they must be familiar with these regulations.
To become a plumber, you need a high school diploma or a GED equivalent. Many plumbers attend a technical school before starting an apprenticeship.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that plumbers earned an average of $67,840 in 2023. The BLS also predicted that by 2032, demand for plumbers will increase 2 percent, which is slightly slower than the national average.
Electrician
Electricians install and repair electrical wiring in buildings. They are responsible for making sure the electricity is safely wired and works correctly. Electricians must be familiar with local codes and regulations for electrical work, and they must adhere to them.
Electricians must have a high school diploma or GED equivalent. They must complete an apprenticeship to learn on-the-job training. Many electricians attend a technical school before starting their apprenticeship.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that electricians earned an average of $67,810 in 2023. The BLS also predicts that by 2032, demand for electricians will increase 6 percent.
Boilermaker
Boilermakers install, maintain, repair, and assemble large vats that hold hot water or gasses. These boilers are used in many buildings and factories. These boilers are welded together by hand or with the aid of a robot. They must make sure the boilers are perfectly assembled to stand up to high pressures and temperatures.
Just like plumbers and electricians, boilermakers must have a high school diploma or GED equivalent.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that boilermakers earned an average of $73,840 in 2023. The BLS also predicts that by 2032, demand for boilermakers will decline slightly.
Construction and Building Inspectors
Building inspectors inspect buildings, roads, bridges, and other structures to ensure they meet certain codes. When building, the construction must take zoning laws, building codes and ordinances, and the building plans into consideration. During and and after construction, they take detailed notes and measurements to ensure everything is code compliant. If the inspector finds something wrong with the project, they can order construction to stop.
To become a construction/building inspector, you must have a high school diploma or GED equivalent. You must also have several years of experience in construction.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that construction/building inspectors earned an average of $72,880 in 2023. The BLS also predicts that by 2032, demand for construction/building inspectors will decline slightly.
Elevator Installers and Repairer
Elevators repairs and installers maintain and install elevators, moving walks, escalators, and other types of lifts. They often work at heights in elevator shafts and in small spaces. They dismantle parts of elevators and other lifts to keep them moving. They must have a good understanding of electronics, hydraulics, and electricity.
Elevator installers and repairers must have a high school diploma or equivalent before starting an apprenticeship.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that elevator installer and repairers earned an average of $100,060 in 2023. The BLS also predicts that by 2032, demand for elevator installers and repairers will show no significant increase or decrease.
Regardless of what you decide, any job in construction or the skilled trades is a good career choice. Find trade schools near you to jump-start your career today.
The information in this article was updated to reflect the 2024 information released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (bls.gov). (May 3rd, 2024)