There are many construction job opportunities, ranging from general labor to highly specialized management skills. If you want to make a career in construction, and want to learn about the best construction jobs, then you are in the right place.
The U.S Bureau of Labor and Statistics projects a 4% growth of construction jobs in the next 10 years. Most of these jobs are associated with good wages and a tenable lifestyle. However, construction workers’ salaries vary based on the field, as well as factors like skill level and experience.
In this article, we will tell you about the best-paying construction jobs, and their median pay, as per the U.S Bureau of Labor and Statistics. IF you’re looking for another guide to some high-paying jobs in the construction field, check Bridgit.
Plumbers Pipefitters and Steamfitters
Plumbing jobs are among the best construction jobs. Every household requires a plumber for installing and repairing their piping fixtures. A qualified plumber in the U.S. earns a median salary of $56,330.
Most states demand a plumbing license and insurance certificate. It is recommended to undertake some apprenticeship or vocational training to get hands-on training as a plumber.
Boilermakers
Boilermakers install and repair boilers, tanks, and other large vessels containing liquids or gases, inspect and test machines to ensure they are working properly, clean the equipment, and repair parts.
This job can involve intense physical effort, and workers can be exposed to toxic fumes. This job is one of the best-paid construction jobs, with a median salary of $65,360.
Usually, boilermakers start their career as elevator technicians with a four-year apprenticeship followed by on-the-job training. Some states require boilermakers to pass an exam and acquire a license.
Elevator installer and repairers
With a median salary of $88,540, elevator installers and repairers are the best-paying jobs in construction. According to the U.S Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the job opportunities in this field are expected to grow by 7% by 2029.
Elevator installers have to work in enclosed areas, such as crawl spaces, machine rooms, and elevator shafts. If you are uncomfortable in a confined space, this may not be an ideal job for you.
There are plenty of opportunities for an elevator installer and repairer in urban metro areas with many multi-story buildings. Some states require a license to operate as an elevator installer and repairer.
Construction and building inspectors
With an average salary of $63,000, construction and building inspectors are some of the highest-paid contractors in the construction industry. These inspectors oversee construction projects to ensure that buildings, streets, bridges, sewers, and other structures are constructed as per the city code.
They make sure that the construction complies with zoning rules and contract requirements. It usually requires several years of relevant work experience. This is a job that relies heavily on seniority and can be a challenging field to break into, without first spending time doing work in another construction field.
Many state and local governments require building inspectors to obtain a permit or other certification.
Electricians
At some point, you may have needed an electrician to install a new overhead light or replace old wiring in your home. We all have an idea of what electricians do. They install and maintain the electrical systems and communications, lighting, and control systems in residential and commercial buildings. This job can fetch you an average salary of $56,900, and the growth opportunities are promising, check vocationaltraininghq.com for the most high paying jobs in the trade industry.
Ironworkers
Ironworkers work with steel and iron during the construction of buildings, roads, bridges, and other civil structures. They also renovate existing structures and aid in demolishing old ones. With the rising construction of high-rise buildings and regular maintenance of old buildings, roads, and bridges, the opportunities in this job are expected to grow by 5% by 2029. As an ironworker, you can earn an average salary of $53,210.
Carpenters
An integral part of all the construction projects, carpenters work with lumber, drywall, fiberglass and other materials to make housing frames, scaffolding, and basically any type of shape or component in the construction field. With an earning potential of $49,520, carpenter jobs are high in demand. Many states require carpenter insurance due to the risk of injury and property damage.
Sheet metal workers
Sheet metal workers manufacture or install products made from thin sheet metal, including steel, aluminum, and alloy metals. They select the right type of sheets for each job.
Almost every building requires sheet metal workers for HVAC ductwork, gutters and other outside rain solutions, and more. With a median salary of $51,370, the job opportunity in this field is expected to grow by 1% by 2029.
Construction equipment operators
Construction equipment operators drive and control large equipment required to construct buildings, roads, and structures. With a median salary of $49,100, the job growth in this area is expected to increase by 4%
Glaziers
Glaziers install glass on commercial and residential projects, including interior glass such as shower dividers, the exterior windows of skyscrapers, and other large structures. The average earnings for a grazier are $44,630 per year, and the job growth is expected at around 4%.
Solar photovoltaic installers
These technicians install solar panels on your rooftops. They earn a median pay of $44,890. Thanks to a mind shift towards renewable energy, this job is expected to grow by 51% in the coming years. Solar photovoltaic installers attend technical school and on-the-job training for a year.
Insulation Technician
It is one of the easy entry jobs that pay an average salary of $44,180. As an insulation technician, you will install materials that help keep buildings at the appropriate temperature.
Since the job involves handling hazardous material, Workers need to complete Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) training and on-the-job training. However, mechanical insulators need to complete a four or five-year apprenticeship.
Painters, Construction, and Maintenance
Painters apply paints to all types of materials, including structures, indoor surfaces, machinery and more. They don’t require any formal education and have an earning potential of an average salary of $42,130, placing them among the best construction jobs.
