Blue-collar professions form the backbone of various industries and play a crucial role in the economy. These professions allow you to build a successful career with high income and growth prospects without requiring a higher education. The healthcare, energy, construction, and manufacturing sectors require highly skilled professionals whose expertise can only be gained through practice and continuous skill improvement.
The concept of «Trade jobs» covers a variety of professions that are indispensable in infrastructure: electricians, plumbers, installers, welders, and other specialists. These professions offer the opportunity for rapid career growth without requiring years of education. The high demand for such specialists, combined with stable earnings, is attracting an increasing number of young people seeking promising and secure employment opportunities.
Current List of Trade Jobs
Blue-collar professions are divided into several types, depending on the work performed, the industry, and the skills required of the specialist.
All trade jobs that are popular and their descrpition:
- Construction- Specialists are engaged in the construction, repair, and maintenance of residential and commercial buildings.
- Mechanical- Workers maintain, repair, and adjust various types of machinery and equipment.
- Medical- Specialists diagnose and maintain equipment and provide first aid to patients.
- Other- Workers perform various tasks, including manufacturing, car maintenance, and others.
Construction Professions
Construction professions form the basis of infrastructure and residential construction in the United States. Electricians, carpenters, and welders are in demand at all stages of construction, and technological developments and the emergence of «smart homes» are increasing the demand for specialists with varying levels of qualifications.
Electrician
Electricians are specialists who ensure the operation of various electrical systems, including internal power, emergency power, and lighting systems. Their work includes laying wiring, installing electrical appliances, and troubleshooting electrical issues. To do this job, you need to be able to read diagrams and project documentation and have knowledge of electrical engineering.
Classification
By industry
- Residential
- Commercial
- Industrial
- Installers and line workers
By type of work
- Automotive
- Marine
- Outdoor Lineman
- Indoor Wireline Personnel
- Wind Turbine Electrician
- System Designers
Skill level
- Apprentice
- Journeyman
- Master
Plumber
Plumbers ensure the proper functioning of water supply, sewage, and heating systems, including the installation and repair of pipes, radiators, and water heaters. Specialists must understand how water supply and drainage systems function, be familiar with the principles of heating systems, and be aware of the rules governing their installation, maintenance, and repair. The work of plumbers is regulated at the state and city levels and requires a license.
Welder
Welders perform work on joining metals by welding and are leading specialists in the fields of construction, shipbuilding, and the automotive industry. The profession involves working with high temperatures and knowledge of various welding methods (arc, gas, argon arc, metal cord, and others).
Tiler
Tile setters are among the key specialists in interior finishing. They work with ceramic, glass, porcelain stoneware, and other materials, and the work itself requires not only technical but also creative skills. Specialized tile setters focus on different areas of installation, such as stone or mosaic.
Painter
Painters are engaged in finishing and painting rooms, creating decorative elements, and improving the appearance of objects. This is creative work that requires skills in artistic decoration and imitation of structures. Painters must be knowledgeable about coating technologies, know which materials are suitable for different types of surfaces, and how to prepare them for painting or finishing.
Mechanical Professions
Career growth opportunities and constant demand are provided for mechanical professionals, including locksmiths, auto mechanics, engineers, and other specialists who can not only repair but also maintain equipment of varying levels of complexity.
Mechanic
Mechanics are specialists who know how to interact with various types of equipment and mechanisms, adjusting, maintaining, and repairing them. The main types of mechanics in different industries are:
- Automotive and equipment;
- Diesel engines;
- Industrial equipment;
- Aviation equipment and electronics;
- Small engines;
- Agricultural equipment maintenance and repair.
The profession requires in-depth practical knowledge and skills, as well as the ability to read drawings and diagrams since specialists service everything from cars to complex industrial installations.
Fitter
Fitters are specialists in the field of metalworking and joining structures with maximum precision. They work in the fields of mechanical engineering, construction, and the manufacture of mechanical parts. The profession requires maximum accuracy, precision, knowledge of various metalworking methods and their physical and chemical properties, as well as the ability to read drawings.
Maintenance Engineer
A maintenance engineer ensures that infrastructure and equipment operate smoothly in the manufacturing, energy, and transportation sectors. Maintenance engineers are classified based on the type of equipment they work with:
- Mechanical equipment;
- Electrical equipment;
- Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems;
- Manufacturing and others.
Specialists diagnose, repair, configure, and maintain everything from production lines to building ventilation systems.
Medical Professions
Medical workers play a crucial role in the healthcare system. Technicians, paramedics, laboratory assistants, and other specialists not only provide patient care but also perform diagnostics, support treatment, and calibrate equipment.
Medical Technician
Medical technicians ensure that medical equipment works properly. They set up, maintain, and monitor the accuracy of X-ray machines, ECGs, blood analysis systems, and other equipment. Specialists are required to possess not only technical and medical knowledge but also a thorough understanding of FDA regulations.
Ultrasound technicians, radiologists, medical equipment repair technicians, and electro-neurodiagnostic technicians all fall under the category of «medical technicians».
Paramedic
Paramedics provide primary medical care in the pre-hospital setting. They work in emergency and urgent care, assisting with injuries, burns, and other urgent medical conditions. Paramedics are divided into emergency medical technicians, paramedics, and military medics. Specialists must be able to provide emergency care, have broad medical knowledge, and make quick decisions.
Laboratory Assistant
Laboratory assistants conduct tests and analyses necessary for treatment, work with various equipment and reagents, and collect and process samples. Laboratory assistants are divided into:
- Clinical;
- Medical;
- Phlebotomists;
- Histology technicians and others.
Specialists must be able to work with various laboratory equipment and handle chemical and biological materials.
Other Types of Trades
In the US, there is a wide range of blue-collar jobs that do not require higher education but do require special skills and knowledge. These include technical maintenance, working with equipment, and manufacturing. The entry threshold for most jobs is basic skills and a desire to develop, while certification opens up access to large and complex projects, as well as career growth.
Welder
In addition to the construction industry, welders work in the aerospace industry and equipment manufacturing. They are skilled in working with various types of metals, joining structural components, and operating complex equipment. Depending on the specifics of the job, they are divided into four categories: automotive, aerospace, shipbuilding, and structural welders.
HVAC specialist
HVAC specialists are involved in the design, installation, maintenance, and repair of climate control systems: ventilation, heating, and air conditioning. Classification of technicians:
- Heating;
- Air conditioning;
- Ventilation;
- Engineers;
- Refrigeration systems.
Specialists must not only be well-versed in heat and cold transfer but also be able to work with various heating models and control sensors and understand the specific environmental impact of this equipment.
Tractor Driver
Tractor drivers operate agricultural machinery and work on tractors, machines for tilling the soil, sowing, and harvesting. They can work on farms, in forestry, and in other industries that utilize heavy equipment. They are classified as follows: operators of agricultural tractors, heavy or logging equipment, combine operators and dump truck drivers.
Baker
Bakers prepare bread, rolls, cakes, and other baked goods. This work requires in-depth knowledge of baking processes and sanitary standards, as well as adherence to established standards and recipes. Classification:
- Bakers;
- Pastry chefs;
- Cake decorators;
- Industrial bakers;
- Bread bakers.
This job requires creative skills.
Blacksmith
A blacksmith is a specialist who forges metal, creating products ranging from tools to decorative structures. The profession requires endurance, high precision, and skills in working with various tools. Blacksmiths are divided into blacksmiths, farriers, armorers, and metal artists.
Car Washer
A car washer maintains vehicles, ensuring their appearance and durability. The job includes cleaning both the exterior and interior of the car. Types of car washers:
- Detailers;
- Mobile;
- Car wash workers;
- Specialized.
The job requires the ability to use various equipment for washing and polishing, as well as knowledge of the properties of chemicals and their compatibility with different materials.
Salary and Growth Prospects Trade Jobs
Trade jobs
Average annual salary, $
Employment growth (up to 2033)
- Electrician - 62 350 (+11%)
- Plumber- 62 970 (+6%)
- Welder- 51 000 (+2%)
- HVAC technician- 59 810 (+9%)
- Auto mechanic- 49 670 (+3%)
- Baker- 36 650 (+5%)
- Blacksmith- 46 800 (-6%)
- Paramedic- 46 350 (+6%)
+6%The average salary depends not only on the employee's profession and qualifications but also on the state in which they work. Current data can always be found at the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Due to process automation, the number of jobs in professions such as baking or car washing may decrease. At the same time, the market for plumbers and electricians is expected to grow due to the increasing need for building maintenance.
Training and Certification
There are various ways to obtain qualifications for trade jobs in the United States, including vocational schools, apprenticeship programs, and certification courses. Such programs help you gain the necessary knowledge and skills, improve your chances in job interviews, and get a high-paying job.
Types of Training Programs
Courses and certification programs offer training materials that help you not only better understand the specifics of the job but also prepare for various aspects of your chosen profession. They are available both offline and online and include not only theoretical training but also practical exercises. Certification courses are offered by various organizations (for example, AWS for welders or NICET for HVAC specialists).
Technical Colleges
Technical colleges also offer training programs that provide students with a combination of theoretical and practical experience, typically spanning 6 months to 2 years. They often include internships and programs for different specialties. Specialists can take online courses, such as those offered by Coursera or Udemy, which not only provide knowledge in specific areas but also help prepare for certification.
Internships
It is impossible to obtain a qualification in a working profession without an internship, as it is the internship that allows you to gain real experience and skills. On average, internships for construction professions last from 1 to 5 years, depending on the complexity and region. Example: California requires 4 years of internship or 720 hours of training courses to obtain an electrician's license, while New York requires 2 years of internship and 2 years of practice.
Certification Programs
Profession
Certificates for trade careers
Cost
Courses
Electrician
- Journeyman Electrician
- Master Electrician
- OSHA
500$ – 2000$
Plumber
- Licensed Plumber
- Master Plumber
- Backflow Prevention Certification
1000$ – 3000$
Welder
- AWS
- CWI
1000$ – 5000$
Maintenance engineer
- HVAC
1000$ – 5000$
Paramedic
- EMT
500$ – 3000$
HVAC specialist
- HVAC
1000$ – 4000$
Tractor driver
- CDL
- Farm Equipment Certification
500$ – 2000$
Baker
- Retail Bakers of America
1000$ – 3000$
Blacksmith
- Blacksmith Certification
1000$ – 5000$
Requirements for Candidates
All trades jobs require not only theoretical knowledge but also physical fitness, experience, and specific skills. To work effectively, you need to have:
- Technical knowledge — knowledge of equipment and tools, understanding of drawings, and the ability to work with new technologies, computer systems, and automated processes. Blue-collar professions involve working with MIG, TIG, IoT, and other systems and computer interfaces.
- Soft skills — communication, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a team. Well-coordinated teamwork (for example, among mechanics) minimizes errors and speeds up the work process. Welders need to identify minor inaccuracies to prevent product defects; effective communication is also crucial for electricians and plumbers who work directly with customers.
- Physical fitness — endurance for mechanics, welders, tilers, and other blue-collar professions — is one of the essential criteria, as the work involves lifting heavy objects, prolonged standing, and uncomfortable positions when laying cables. Often, the job requires working at heights, in high temperatures, and involves long shifts.
Many professions in the United States require a license or certificate, as well as passing exams that test both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. These certificates allow you to move from apprentice to master, increasing not only the complexity of projects but also your salary.
Job Search for Different Trades
After receiving certification and passing exams, you can start looking for a job, and for this, specialists are offered different options:
- Specialized platforms: DistrictJobs, Indeed, LinkedIn, SimplyHired, ZipRecruiter
- Websites with job vacancies: HVAC Jobs Center, Welding Jobs, PlumbingJobs.
One of the first steps in finding a job is preparing a good resume. For blue-collar jobs, it is important to emphasize not only technical skills but also practical experience, knowledge of standards, diagnostic rules, and equipment repair. It is essential to list all received certificates, such as Certified Welder or Journeyman Electrician.
It is worth indicating work experience and listing your achievements (successful completion of large projects, increased productivity, working with new methods and technologies). It is advisable to add recommendations from colleagues or employers to the resume to increase trust.
If the resume interests the employer, the next step is an interview. It is worth preparing for the interview in advance so that the potential employer’s questions do not catch you off guard:
- Safety issues: Most trade jobs require strict adherence to safety regulations, and it is essential to be aware of all current standards and the measures taken to reduce the risk of an accident.
- Technical standards: Knowledge of modern standards and technologies, as well as their impact on productivity, is highly valued.
- Skills: In addition to the theoretical part, during the interview, you may be required to demonstrate your skills and perform some part of the work process.
Important: You may not necessarily pass the interview on the first try. It is worth improving your competence and skills and then submitting your resume to several companies. This way, you can increase your chances of employment, as well as choose the best conditions. According to the latest statistics, it is worth submitting a resume to at least 7-10 different companies.
Tip: Carefully study the list of trade jobs and their requirements. Even if you do not meet all the requirements but are confident in your abilities and learn quickly, it is worth submitting your resume and preparing for the interview.
Career Growth for Different Types of Trade Jobs and Opportunities for Professionals
All trade jobs provide excellent opportunities for career growth and development, even without a higher education. In addition to improving the quality of work and, accordingly, higher income, there is an opportunity to move to management positions. To develop in blue-collar jobs, it is recommended to:
- Obtain certificates and constantly improve your qualifications, deepen your knowledge in certain areas (for example: underwater welding or obtaining CWI certification to work on more complex projects).
- Move to project management positions, improve leadership skills, and gain personnel management experience.
- Move from «Journeyman» to «Master». To achieve this, it is beneficial to enhance your knowledge and obtain additional certifications, such as NICET or ASPE, and also pass the relevant exams. The average training time is ~ 5 years.
Different trades allow you to open your own business: a welding workshop, HVAC design companies. It is worth obtaining not only certificates confirming skills and knowledge but also the appropriate licenses. Each state has special bodies that regulate work in different industries and issue the corresponding permits.
Tip: Enhance your connections by participating in professional associations, such as NPCA or NAHB. This will help you expand and find new clients.
What Are Trade Jobs and How to Start Working Without Experience?
It is worth starting work in trade jobs by obtaining basic education and skills, as well as completing an internship with an experienced specialist. Most internship programs include practical training and last about 1 year. It is worthwhile to take specialized courses to enhance your skills and knowledge of tool-handling rules and safety techniques.
Which Profession is Considered the Most Promising in the Working Industries?
The growth of infrastructure and new technologies dictates the prospects for professions in the US working industries. The list of trade jobs includes HVAC specialists, electricians, and plumbers. The projected growth in this industry for the next 10 years is between 2 and 11% annually.
What is the Average Salary for Construction Workers?
The average salary in the construction industry depends on the profession, the specialist's skills, and their work experience. On average, construction workers earn between $53,000 and $58,000 per year. Electricians and plumbers earn between $62,000 and $63,000, while welders and mechanics earn between $49,500 and $51,000 per year. Salary levels are influenced by region and certification level. The average salary is also higher for highly skilled trades jobs in large cities such as Los Angeles and New York.
How Long Does it Take to Become a Certified Professional in a Certain Profession?
The time required to master a trade depends on the type of trade and the level of training desired. For most trades jobs, including those of electricians, plumbers, and welders, it typically takes 3-5 years of training and apprenticeship, as well as obtaining full certification. For HVAC specialists, bakers, and maintenance engineers, training and accreditation last from 6 months to 2 years on average.