Top 30 Fun and High-Paying Trade School Jobs in 2024

Trade schools offer an alternative path to a rewarding career that does not necessarily require a traditional four-year college degree. As a trade school graduate, you might be concerned about finding a well-paying job with room for growth and advancement. You might also be interested in finding enjoyable trade school jobs that fit your personality and interests.

This article lets you learn about job opportunities you might not have considered. You will also get an idea of what kind of salary you can expect in different industries and how much education and training you will need.

Part 1. 30 Fun and High-Paying Trade Jobs

In today's job market, trade jobs are becoming increasingly popular due to their high demand and relatively high salaries. Skilled tradespeople are essential for many industries, including construction, manufacturing, transportation, etc. Compared to traditional office jobs, the best trade school jobs require hands-on skills and specialized knowledge that cannot be replaced by automation or artificial intelligence.

This section will explore 30 fun and high-paying trade school jobs list, average salaries, and required education that offers fulfilling careers and stable employment opportunities. Let’s learn about them:

1. Electrician

• Average Salary: $56,100 per year
• Required Education: Apprenticeship/Vocational Training

The job of electricians is to install, repair, and maintain electrical systems in homes, organizations, and other buildings. They read blueprints and wiring diagrams, test circuits, and use various hand and power tools. To excel in this role, one must possess expertise in electrical systems, exhibit detailed attention, demonstrate critical thinking abilities, and be proficient in problem-solving. This is one of the trade school jobs that pay well.

2. HVAC Technician

• Average Salary: $50,600 per year
• Required Education: Vocational Training/Apprenticeship

HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) technicians have to install, repair, and maintain building cooling and heating systems. They use various tools and equipment, read blueprints and schematics, and test systems for proper functioning. To be qualified for this job, one must have knowledge of heating and cooling systems, possess mechanical aptitude, be skilled in troubleshooting, and have excellent customer service abilities.

3. Plumber

• Average Salary: $55,200 per year
• Required Education: Vocational Training or an Apprenticeship

A plumber’s job is to install and repair pipes, fixtures, and other plumbing systems in homes, organizations, and restaurants. They use various tools, read blueprints, and test systems for leaks and proper functioning. This job requires proficiency in plumbing systems, mechanical aptitude, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills.

4. Carpenter

• Average Salary: $49,520 per year
• Required Education: Trade School Program

This job stands fourth in our trade school jobs list. Carpenters build and install structures such as walls, roofs, decks, furniture, and cabinetry. They have to check blueprints, measure and cut materials, and use various hand and power tools. The skills required for this job include knowledge of building materials and techniques, attention to detail, problem-solving, and physical dexterity.

5. Machinist

• Average Salary: $45,800 per year
• Required Education: Apprenticeship

Machinists have to use tools like lathes, calipers, grinders, and milling machines to produce metal parts for various products. They read blueprints, set up and operate machines and use precision measuring instruments to ensure accuracy. To be successful in this job, one must have a good understanding of machine processes and equipment, demonstrate keen attention to detail, and possess strong problem-solving skills.

6. Automotive Technician

• Average Salary: $44,100 per year
• Required Education: Apprenticeship or a Vocational Training

Automotive technicians diagnose and repair car, truck, and vehicle problems. They use various tools and equipment, including diagnostic scanners, to identify and fix issues with engines, brakes, transmissions, and other systems. This job demands expertise in automotive systems, critical thinking abilities, problem-solving skills, and excellent customer service aptitude.

7. Heavy Equipment Operator

• Average Salary: $49,600 per year
• Required Education: Apprenticeship

The operators use machineries such as bulldozers, excavators, and cranes to move earth, materials, and equipment on construction sites and other projects. They read and interpret blueprints, operate and maintain equipment, and follow safety protocols. To excel in these trade jobs that pay well, one must have expertise in heavy equipment, demonstrate meticulous attention to detail, possess strong problem-solving abilities, and exhibit effective communication skills.

8. Commercial Diver

• Average Salary: $67,320 per year
• Required Education: Vocational Training

Commercial divers work underwater on construction, repair, and maintenance projects for bridges, pipelines, and other structures. They use specialized equipment and follow safety protocols to perform their work. To be qualified for this job, one must have a good understanding of diving equipment and techniques, maintain physical fitness, possess strong problem-solving skills, and exhibit effective communication abilities.

9. Aircraft Mechanic

• Average Salary: $65,230 per year
• Required Education: Apprenticeship or Vocational Training

Aircraft mechanics diagnose and repair problems with aircraft engines, avionics, and other systems. They use various tools and equipment to perform their work, including diagnostic and power tools. To be successful in this job, one must have a good understanding of aircraft systems, exhibit critical thinking abilities, possess strong problem-solving skills, and maintain a high level of attention to detail.

10. Forensic Science Technician

• Average Salary: $60,590 per year
• Required Education: Bachelor's Degree in Forensic Science

Forensic science technicians collect and analyze evidence from crime scenes to help solve crimes. They use various tools and equipment, including microscopes and chemical analysis equipment. This job demands proficiency in forensic science techniques, critical thinking abilities, strong problem-solving skills, and great attention to detail. We can also include this in the list of trade school jobs for women.

11. Radiation Therapist

• Average Salary: $86,730 per year
• Required Education: Associate Degree in Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapists use radiation to treat cancer patients by targeting cancer cells and minimizing damage to healthy cells. They operate equipment such as linear accelerators and CT scanners and work closely with oncologists and other healthcare professionals. The skills required for this job include knowledge of radiation therapy techniques, critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication.

12. Esthetician

• Average Salary: $37,730 per year
• Required Education: Vocational Training or an Apprenticeship

Estheticians provide skin care services such as facials, waxing, and makeup application. They use various products and equipment and work closely with clients to achieve their desired results. To be qualified for this job, one must have expertise in skincare techniques and products, exhibit excellent customer service skills, possess strong problem-solving abilities, and demonstrate effective communication aptitude.

13. Landscape Architect

• Average Salary: $73,160 per year
• Required Education: Bachelor's Degree in Landscape Architecture

Landscape architects design outdoor spaces such as parks, gardens, and campuses. They work with clients to create plans that meet their needs and budgets and incorporate elements such as plants, water features, and hardscaping. To flourish in these trade school jobs that pay well, one must possess certain skills, such as expertise in landscape design principles, creativity, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication.

14. Web Developer

• Average Salary: $77,200 per year
• Required Education: Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science

Web developers design and create websites and web applications for businesses and organizations. They use programming languages like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, content management systems, and other tools. To thrive in this job, you must have a range of essential skills, such as proficiency in web development languages and tools, creativity, problem-solving capabilities, and unwavering attention to detail.

15. Welder

• Average Salary: $44,190 per year
• Required Education: Vocational Program

Welding is a technique used to combine metal parts by heating them to their melting point and fusing them. This is a crucial process used in a wide range of projects, including the construction of buildings, bridges, and vehicles. Welders play a vital role in manufacturing and construction, creating strong, long-lasting bonds between metal components.

16. Mason

• Average Salary: $46,500 per year
• Required Education: Apprenticeship or Trade School Program

Masonry is the craft of constructing structures using materials like bricks, stones, and concrete. They are skilled professionals who work on projects such as walls, buildings, and chimneys that require a durable and sturdy foundation. To be successful in this field in our trade school jobs list, masons must possess a comprehensive understanding of masonry techniques, including the ability to lay bricks and stones in various patterns.

17. Diesel Mechanic

• Average Salary: $51,590 per year
• Required Education: Vocational Program or Apprentices

Diesel mechanics play a crucial role in the transportation industry by diagnosing and repairing issues with diesel engines found in trucks, buses, and other vehicles. They are responsible for maintaining and repairing the engine, brakes, transmission, and other systems to ensure the vehicle runs smoothly and efficiently. This requires a knowledge of engine components, electrical systems, and fuel injection systems.

18. Carpenter Foreman

• Average Salary: $66,350 per year
• Required Education: Trade School Program

Carpenter supervisors play a critical role in the construction industry by supervising and coordinating the work of carpenters on construction sites. They oversee projects from start to finish, ensuring work is completed on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. In addition to technical skills, carpenter supervisors must possess leadership and communication skills to fulfill the requirements of these trade school jobs that pay well.

19. Boilermaker

• Average Salary: $66,360 per year
• Required Education: Apprenticeship Program

Boilermakers are skilled tradespeople who specialize in constructing, installing, and maintaining large boilers, tanks, and pressure vessels. These vessels hold liquids and gases in various industries, including power generation, oil and gas, and chemical manufacturing. Furthermore, boilermakers must be able to work independently or as part of a team to ensure that projects are completed on time and to the highest quality standards.

20. Occupational Therapy Assistant

• Average Salary: $62,940 per year
• Required Education: Associate Degree in Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy assistants play a crucial role in healthcare by working closely with patients who struggle with injuries, illnesses, or disabilities that hinder their ability to perform daily tasks. They work in tandem with licensed occupational therapists to devise and execute treatment plans that assist patients in reclaiming their independence and enhancing their overall standard of living.

21. Medical Sonographer

• Average Salary: $75,920 per year
• Required Education: Associate Degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography

Ultrasound technicians, also known as medical sonographers, employ ultrasound technology to generate images of internal organs and tissues. These also trade school jobs for women. Physicians rely on these images to diagnose and track various medical conditions such as pregnancy, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. The demand for proficient sonographers is rising, rendering this healthcare profession a highly promising field for individuals seeking a career in this domain.

22. Graphic Designer

• Average Salary: $56,510 per year
• Required Education: Bachelor's Degree in Graphic Design or a Related Field

Graphic designers are creative professionals who create visual concepts using computer software or by hand. They use a variety of design elements, such as color, typography, and imagery, to communicate ideas and messages that inspire, inform, or captivate consumers. Graphic designers may work on various projects, such as logos, advertisements, packaging, websites, etc.

23. Industrial Designer

• Average Salary: $68,890 per year
• Required Education: Bachelor's Degree in Industrial Design

Industrial designers are creative professionals who specialize in developing and improving products used in everyday life, such as furniture, appliances, toys, and more. They use their creativity and technical skills to develop design concepts and create sketches, prototypes, or computer models to test and refine their designs. They are involved in every stage of the product design process, from research and development to the final product.

24. Surveyor

• Average Salary: $65,120 per year
• Required Education: Bachelor's Degree in Surveying or a Related Field

Surveyors measure and map land boundaries and features for various purposes, such as construction, engineering, or land-use planning. They use various tools, including GPS, lasers, and drones, to gather data and create accurate maps and legal descriptions. Surveyors in the trade school jobs list play a critical role in many industries, such as construction, civil engineering, and real estate.

25. Solar Installer

• Average Salary: $67,213 per year
• Required Education: High School Diploma or Equivalent

A solar PV panel installer is an expert who possesses specialized skills to install solar photovoltaic panels on the roofs of buildings to generate electricity by utilizing the energy of the sun. Their job involves assembling, maintaining, and planning the installation process according to each customer's unique preferences. Solar installers work outdoors in various weather conditions to ensure efficient installation and performance of solar panels.

26. Real Estate Appraiser

• Average Salary: $64,246 per year
• Required Education: High School Diploma or Equivalent

Real estate appraisers are professionals who evaluate the worth of both the land and the structures located on that land. To accomplish this task, they visit the property site, carefully analyze its characteristics, and compare similar properties. Real estate appraisers specialize in residential or commercial real estate and typically spend significant time in the field, traveling to different properties to conduct their evaluations.

27. Licensed Practical Nurse

• Average Salary: $59,794 per year
• Required Education: Postsecondary Nondegree Award

LPNs work closely with doctors and registered nurses, taking detailed notes to update patient charts and informing their supervising medical staff. This category also fits the trade school jobs for women. LPNs can work in various settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, and residential homes. Due to the nature of their work, LPNs may be required to work longer than the typical eight-hour workday, and they must also be physically fit to provide patients with hands-on care.

28. Nuclear Medicine Technician

• Average Salary: $69,000 per year
• Required Education: High School Diploma or Equivalent

Nuclear medicine technicians are healthcare professionals who work in hospitals, medical laboratories, and care centers to prepare and administer radiopharmaceutical drugs to patients for imaging or treatment purposes. They also provide support to patients by explaining procedures and operating imaging equipment. These technicians are responsible for ensuring the safe and effective use of radiopharmaceuticals and maintaining accurate patient records.

29. IT Support Specialist

• Average salary: $42,500 per year
• Required Education: Vocational School

If you possess a strong interest in technology and have a knack for troubleshooting and resolving problems, pursuing an IT support specialist career may align with your passions and strengths. These professionals can work in various settings, including stores, online, or over the phone, and are responsible for providing technical assistance to customers or clients. This may involve troubleshooting issues, performing routine maintenance tasks, answering questions, and providing network support.

30. Elevator Mechanic

• Average Salary: $99,500 per year
• Required Education: High School Diploma or Equivalent

It is one of the trade school jobs that pay well. Elevator mechanics are crucial in repairing, maintaining, and installing elevators. They require physical stamina, strength, and the ability to work at heights. These specialized professionals are responsible for diagnosing and fixing elevator malfunctions, replacing faulty parts, and conducting routine inspections and tests to ensure the elevators function properly and safely.

Also Read: How to Be A Better Student in College? 15 Tips

Part 2. How to Create an Eye-Catching Trade School Jobs Resume?

Creating an eye-catching trade school jobs resume is crucial because it is the first impression potential employers will have of you. Your resume should showcase your skills, experience, and education clearly and concisely. Using UPDF, a PDF editor, to create your trade school job resume has several advantages.

First, PDFs are a universally accepted format, meaning your resume will be accessible to potential employers regardless of the software they use. Second, UPDF allows you to create professional-looking documents with various formatting options, such as custom fonts, colors, and layouts. This helps your resume stand out from others that use basic formatting. Let’s find out more about it below:

Step 1. Choose A PDF Resume Template

Choosing a desired resume template is important when creating an eye-catching trade job resume because it provides structure and consistency to the document. Using a well-designed resume template can effectively showcase your skills, experience, and qualifications in a visually appealing and organized manner, making it easier for potential employers to assess your strengths.

You can search around and find the desired resume templates.

However, most resume templates are in PDF formats. For this case, you need to use a PDF editor to customize them after downloading the one you need.

Step 2. Design Your Resume With UPDF

UPDF is a powerful and user-friendly PDF editor tool that can edit and annotate resumes. With UPDF, you can add text, images, and shapes to your resume and highlight, underline, and strike through text. You can add comments and annotations to your resume for additional context and feedback. One of the key advantages of using UPDF to design your best trade school jobs resume is its ease of use.

This PDF editor is thoughtfully designed to be intuitive and straightforward, boasting a user-friendly interface that simplifies navigation and enables you to easily customize your resume. Furthermore, it offers extensive customization options, including various formatting tools, enabling you to create a professional-looking resume that stands out from the rest.

Steps to Customize Your Resume Using UPDF

Now that you have a basic understanding of UPDF, it's time to learn how to customize your resume using this powerful tool. Here's how to do it:

1: Browse the Desired File for Editing

Navigate the UPDF tool on your device and double-click to launch it. At the center of the screen, press the “Open File” option to browse and open the desired resume file.

2: Edit the Text

Head to the left sidebar and press the "Edit PDF." It will enable the various options at the topside bar, such as "Text," "Image," and "Link." To add the text to the resume, click the "Text" option and click where you want to add the text. You can also modify the text already present in your resume document by double-clicking on it.

3: Annotate Your Resume If Needed

You can also select the "Comment" tool from the left sidebar to put comments and notes, signatures, or shapes to customize your resume by selecting the tools from the top.

Step 3. Share or Print Your Resume with UPDF to Apply for Trade School Jobs

When applying for trade school jobs, having a well-crafted resume can significantly affect your chances of getting hired. One way to accomplish this is by using a PDF editor tool to share or print your resume. We will explore how to share or print your resume using UPDF.

Follow the easy steps mentioned below to learn and utilize to print and share your document in various formats such as via link, QR code, or email:

1: Navigate the Sharing Option After Making Changes

After you have made changes to your resume using UPDF, locate the right sidebar and press the “Share this file with others” option to expand it.

2: Set the Options as Per Need

In the extended window, under the “Share a Link” section, you can disable the copy or print options and set the "Expiration Time" as needed. After this, click the “Create” button to generate a link. You can copy the link and share it with the desired person.

3: Generate a QR Code

After creating the link, hit the “Barcode” icon next to the link. Click the “Download” button and share it with anyone you want. It will enable them to view the resume directly with a QR code.

4: Sent Your Resume Through an Email

To share the resume through an email, click the "Share with Others" tab, fill in the receipts detail, enter your message, and click the "Send" button to send the resume as mail.

5: Print it and Carry it with You

For printing the resume, head to the "File" tab at the top left corner and select it to open the drop-down menu. Next, proceed with the “Print” option to print your resume file successfully.

Conclusion

Obtaining a skilled trades education can enable you to acquire a high-paying job without the weight of a four-year college degree. Whether you enjoy working with your hands, being outdoors, or solving complex technical problems, there are trade school jobs for you. Crafting a compelling resume that effectively showcases your skills and experience is crucial to increase the chances of securing a well-paying trade job.

Fortunately, the UPDF is an excellent resource that can aid in customizing your resume to align with the requirements of the position you seek. With its exceptional features, this PDF editor enables you to effortlessly edit and personalize your resume, emphasizing your strengths and qualifications to distinguish yourself from other applicants.