10 Trade Jobs Employers Can’t Fill Fast Enough That Pay Over $70,000

Four-year degrees aren't the only path to six-figure potential. Trade jobs are surging in demand across the U.S., offering paychecks that rival those of conventional white-collar careers. Employers are scrambling to fill positions in fields such as electrical work, construction management, and aviation because there are too few trained workers entering these industries.

Many of these careers only require a trade school education, an associate degree, certification, or hands-on training — yet the median salaries easily exceed $70,000.

If you're looking to boost your bank account with a stable, high-paying career that values skill over a diploma, here are 10 trade jobs worth your attention.

Editor's note: Salary information has been sourced from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Median annual salary: $72,120

Construction managers and building inspectors are professionals who ensure residential and commercial buildings meet requisite codes, zoning regulations, and contract specifications.

Although a bachelor's degree may be necessary, many individuals enter this industry with a high school diploma and relevant work experience. They also receive on-the-job training, which is typically provided by most employers. Many states might require some form of licensing or certification.

Median annual salary: $80,450

Respiratory therapists care for patients with breathing troubles and issues that may stem from chronic health conditions, such as asthma. This role is in demand, with a 12% growth rate projected through 2034.

While an associate degree will get you into some organizations, many employers prefer you to have a bachelor's degree in respiratory therapy.

You must be licensed in all states except Alaska, and other requirements vary by state.

Median annual salary: $75,190

These skilled professionals run, monitor, and maintain engines, boilers, and other kinds of mechanical equipment that provide heating, ventilation, or refrigeration for industrial plants and commercial buildings.

A high school diploma or equivalent is the basic requirement to enter this field, and you'll be trained either on the job or through apprenticeship programs.

You may need to demonstrate competency through licenses or organization-specific exams to be authorized to operate equipment without supervision.

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Median annual salary: $79,140

Aircraft mechanics and technicians ensure aircraft are safe and airworthy by inspecting, diagnosing, and repairing all aspects of aircraft, in addition to routine maintenance tasks like cleaning and de-icing.

A high school diploma and specialized Federal Aviation Administration-approved training (like an A&P certificate course), along with relevant experience, are expected.

The demand for this role is projected to grow 5% through 2034, faster than the average 3% growth rate for all U.S. occupations.

Median annual salary: $106,980

Construction managers ideate, plan, coordinate budgets, and supervise construction projects from start to finish.

They typically require a bachelor's degree, supplemented by on-the-job training and on-site management technique learning. Many companies may prefer to hire individuals who possess both a bachelor's degree and the requisite experience.

According to the BLS, around 46,800 openings are projected every year through 2034, making this a solid role to get into.

Median annual salary: $79,660

Landscape architects exist at the intersection of creative aesthetics and science, envisioning functional, visually appealing, and environmentally sustainable outdoor spaces such as parks, office complexes, gated communities, and more.

They must be licensed in all states of the U.S. and hold a bachelor's degree in landscape architecture.

Median annual salary: $71,270

These are skilled trades professionals who identify, troubleshoot, and repair various kinds of electrical and electronic systems or equipment, from industrial machinery to transportation systems.

A high school diploma or equivalent is required to enter the field. However, an additional degree, apprenticeship training, or applicable industry experience will help you specialize and advance your career.

Median annual salary: $77,180

While this sounds similar to the previous role, it is different. These professionals help and assist engineers in designing and developing electric or electronic devices. This trade focuses on the practical, real-world application of electrical and electronic concepts.

You'll typically require an associate degree in related fields and then have experience through on-the-job training or supporting apprenticeship programs to get certified.

Median annual salary: $70,760

Electromechanical and mechatronic technicians deal with automated and computer-controlled machinery and systems. They combine knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and electronic principles to install, operate, maintain, and repair various machinery, including robotic equipment and unmanned vehicles used across various industries.

You will require an associate degree or a post-secondary certificate to get hired into this role, in addition to relevant industry experience.

Median annual salary: $89,340

Medical sonographers are allied health professionals who are skilled in operating ultrasound equipment in hospitals, clinics, physicians' offices, or diagnostic centers to create images of the inside of patients' bodies, enabling doctors to identify any underlying issues.

Most workers in this field need to be licensed or certified, while having an associate degree or a post-secondary certificate can help you gain entry, which will be worth it, as roles are projected to grow 13% through 2034.

Most of these roles are projected to grow at an above-average rate over the next decade compared to all other U.S. occupations, according to 2024 data from the BLS. Many trade jobs require only a high school diploma, an associate degree, or on-the-job training as entry requirements, while a few require a bachelor's degree.

If you are at a career crossroads, thinking of changing fields or pivoting into something that will help you build wealth, these high-paying trade jobs will help you do exactly that.