Many people believe that a college degree is required to find a rewarding and lucrative career. However, the skilled trades provide in-demand and well-paying jobs that do not require a bachelor's degree. In addition, trade school takes far less time and money to complete than a traditional four-year program. Our guide to the highest-paying trade jobs is based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ salary and career outlook projections. Read through to see which trade attracts your attention as they are all well-paying!
Many people believe that a college degree is required to find a rewarding and lucrative career. However, the skilled trades provide in-demand and well-paying jobs that do not require a bachelor's degree. In addition, trade school takes far less time and money to complete than a traditional four-year program. Our guide to the highest-paying trade jobs is based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ salary and career outlook projections. Read through to see which trade attracts your attention as they are all well-paying!
Earning a bachelor's degree has long been regarded as the golden ticket to achieving the American Dream, a sort of cure-all checkbox that ensures economic success.
For recent graduates, the reality is far less rosy. According to a recent salary survey conducted by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), the average annual salary for college graduates is around $50,000. Now compare that to the average student loan debt which is $37,693.
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The solution? In this special Unmudl guide we look at the highest paying jobs in Arizona without a degree available as an alternative to college for those seeking financial stability quickly and without incurring massive debt. Construction management, electricians, healthcare assistants, web development, and other similar trades pay well and are also in high demand.
If you're looking for a lucrative career, join us on a deep dive into the highest-paying trades jobs available.
Looking to begin a trade job in Arizona in only 10 to 12 weeks?
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What are the highest paying trade jobs in Arizona?
There are many trade jobs that require only a high school diploma or at max a two-year associate’s degree from a community college. These trades pay well and knowing your options will help you plan for your future.
1. Air Traffic Controllers
Many people are astonished to hear that working in air traffic control does not require a bachelor's degree. An associate's degree or equivalent military experience is often all that is required of air traffic controllers.
Of course, there are still a lot of hurdles to clear. However, most of them can be finished in two years if you enroll in a two-year vocational program. It comes down to work, much like many other high-paying careers from trade schools.
Related: Another exciting career in a similar field is being a private pilot. Try this course to get your career started.
2021 Median Pay: $129,750 per year ($62.38 per hour)
Typical Entry-Level Education: Associate's degree
Job Outlook, 2020-30: Air traffic controllers' employment is expected to expand by 4% between 2020 and 2030, slower than the average for all occupations.
Despite slow job growth, an average of 2,500 openings for air traffic controllers are expected each year over the next decade.
What Air Traffic Controllers do
Air traffic controllers manage the movement of planes in order to keep them at a safe distance from one another. The major priority for air traffic controllers is safety, but they must also direct aircraft efficiently to avoid delays.
Typical duties include:
Monitor and direct the movement of all aircraft on the ground and in the air.
Keep an eye on all ground traffic at the airport's runways and taxiways.
Give landing and takeoff instructions to pilots.
Accept control of arriving flights and transfer control of departing flights to other traffic control centers.
Provide weather updates, runway closures, and other essential information to pilots.
Notify airport response workers in the case of an aviation emergency.
The annual mean wage of Air Traffic Controllers by state, May 2021
Employment of Air Traffic Controllers by state, May 2021
2. Construction Managers
Construction managers are in charge of almost every facet of a construction project. They make certain that the task is finished on time, according to specifications, and on schedule.
The majority of construction managers are self-employed individuals who seek out their own work. This also means that, as construction managers, they have the freedom to choose whatever projects they wish to work on.
You can start your career off as a Construction Manager with an associate’s degree from a community college. It is optional, in order to grow further in this career, to later transfer credits to a bachelor’s degree program.
2021 Median Pay: $98,890 per year ($47.55 per hour)
Typical Entry-Level Education: Associate's degree (Bachelor’s degree to advance career)
Job Outlook, 2020-30: Construction managers' employment is expected to expand 11% between 2020 and 2030, faster than the average for all occupations.
Over the next ten years, an average of 38,900 construction manager job vacancies are expected.
What Construction Managers do
From start to completion, construction managers plan, coordinate, budget, and supervise construction projects.
Typical duties include:
Preparing budgets, cost estimates, and work schedules.
Contracts and technical information are translated and explained to other specialists.
Collaborate with architects, engineers, and other building experts.
Choose subcontractors, then schedule and manage their work.
Monitor projects and inform the construction firm and clients about progress and budget issues.
Respond to project delays, emergencies, and other issues.
Ascertain that the project meets all legal criteria, such as building and safety codes.
The annual mean wage of Construction Managers by state, May 2021
Employment of Construction Managers by state, May 2021
3. Elevator Installers and Repairers
In tall buildings, many technologies are applied and elevators and escalators are among the most complicated. It's also critical to keep them in good working order.
We don't give these human transportation capsules much thought, despite the fact that they may rapidly lift people hundreds (or thousands) of feet into the air. Fortunately, there are specialist tasks for keeping these machines in peak working order. Elevator installers and repairers construct and maintain the elevators we use on a daily basis.
2021 Median Pay: $97,860 per year ($47.05 per hour)
Typical Entry-Level Education: High school diploma or equivalent
Job Outlook, 2020-30: From 2020 to 2030, the employment of elevator and escalator installers and repairers is expected to expand at a rate of 6%, which is approximately average for all occupations.
Over the next ten years, an average of 2,500 openings for elevator and escalator installers and repairers are expected.
What Elevator Installers and Repairers do
Elevators, escalators, moving walkways, and other lifts are installed, maintained, and repaired by elevator and escalator installers and repairers.
Typical duties include:
Read and interpret blueprints to determine the layout of system components and selecting the necessary installation or repair equipment.
Assemble elevator cars and other system components.
Connect control panels and motors with electrical wiring.
Check that newly installed equipment meets specifications.
Troubleshoot problems with brakes, motors, switches, and control systems.
Dismantle elevators, escalators, and similar units using hoists, ladders, hand tools, and power tools to remove and replace defective parts.
Repair or replace faulty components to restore the elevator or escalator to full operation.
Maintain and inspect elevators, escalators, and similar equipment to ensure compliance with safety regulations and building codes.
Maintain detailed service records for all maintenance and repair tasks.
The annual mean wage of Elevator Installers and Repairers by state, May 2021
Employment of Elevator Installers and Repairers by state, May 2021
4. Radiation Therapists
Most people confuse Radiation Therapists with Radiologists. You typically see a Radiologist if you break a bone while people who are sick and require radiation treatment are treated by Radiation Therapists.
The majority of their time is spent in oncology departments. Hospitals, cancer centers, and other medical facilities may fall under this category.
2021 Median Pay: $82,790 per year ($39.80 per hour)
Typical Entry-Level Education: Associate's degree
Job Outlook, 2020-30: From 2020 to 2030, employment of radiation therapists is expected to expand at a rate of 9%, which is approximately average for all occupations.
Over the next ten years, there are expected to be over 1,100 opportunities for radiation therapists.
What Radiation Therapists do
Patients with cancer or other serious disorders are treated with radiation by radiation therapists.
Typical duties include:
Explaining treatment plans to the patient and answering any therapy-related questions they may have.
Protect the patients and themselves from unnecessary radiation exposure.
Determine the location of tumors to ensure that patients are properly positioned for each therapy.
Calibrating and operating radiotherapy machines.
Keep an eye on the patient for any odd reactions to the treatment.
Keep meticulous treatment records.
Annual mean wage of Radiation Therapists by state, May 2021
Employment of Radiation Therapists by state, May 2021
5. Dental Hygienists
When it comes to dealing with patients, the best hygienists have excellent bedside manners and compassion. They also have the technical ability to operate cleaning equipment around a patient's mouth.
It's one of the best trade occupations since it pays well and gives you weekends off. Many two-year programs in Arizona can help you break into the field of dental hygiene. Community colleges, trade schools, and vocational schools all offer these courses. You may even be able to join an accelerated program to complete your studies in less than two years.
Dental hygienists check patients for indicators of oral diseases like gingivitis and give preventive therapy, such as oral hygiene. They also provide oral health education to their patients.
Typical duties include:
Clean teeth tartar, stains, and plaque
Help safeguard teeth by using sealants and fluorides
Take and develop dental x-rays
Examine patients' dental health and inform dentists of the results
Make a record of the patient's care and treatment plans
Educate patients on proper oral hygiene procedures, such as brushing and flossing
Annual mean wage of Dental Hygienists by state, May 2021
Employment of Dental Hygienists by state, May 2021
6. Web Developers
Web developers have some of the best-paying trade jobs available. Web development is a unique trade school job in which clients are unconcerned about your education. They are more concerned with the outcomes you can provide.
Your portfolio is one of the most important steps in preparing to be a web developer. This demonstrates that you are working on projects and learning new technologies. As a result, a web developer should get started right away with some hands-on experience.
This short course of just 4.5 months can get you started as a Front End Web Developer!
2021 Median Pay: $77,200 per year ($37.12 per hour)
Typical Entry-Level Education: Associate's degree
Job Outlook, 2020-30: Web developer employment is expected to grow 13 percent between 2020 and 2030, faster than the average for all occupations.
On average, 17,900 job openings for web developers are expected each year over the next decade.
What Web Developers do
Websites are created and maintained by web developers. They are also in charge of the site's technical aspects, such as performance and capacity, which are measures of a website's speed and capacity to handle traffic. Web developers may also create content for the site.
Typical duties include:
Consult with clients or management about the requirements, design, and functionality of a website or interface.
Create and test website applications, interfaces, and navigation menus.
Create website code using programming languages such as HTML or XML.
Work with other team members to determine what information will be included on the site.
Work with graphics and other designers to determine the layout of the website.
Include graphics, audio, and video on your website.
Monitor website traffic and create website or application prototypes and mockups.
Annual mean wage of Web Developers by state, May 2021
Employment of Web Developers by state, May 2021
7. Boilermakers
Boilermakers are skilled tradespeople who design, build, install, and service commercial boilers. These are not your typical household boilers. They are large machines that use heat to generate electricity. The energy is then used to heat a building, ship, or factory.
A boilermaker may also work with closed vats or tanks that contain oil, liquids, or other chemicals. A four-year apprenticeship with an employer or boilermakers union is typically required to become a boilermaker. This is how you will receive on-the-job training and instruction.
2021 Median Pay: $64,290 per year ($30.91 per hour)
Typical Entry-Level Education: High school diploma or equivalent
Job Outlook, 2020-30: From 2020 to 2030, employment of boilermakers is expected to remain stable.
Approximately 1,300 boilermaker openings are expected each year on average over the next decade.
What Boilermakers do
Boilermakers build, install, service, and repair boilers, closed vats, and other large vessels or containers that hold liquids and gasses.
Typical duties include:
Read blueprints to determine boiler part locations, positions, and dimensions
Install small, prefabricated boilers in buildings and manufacturing plants
Before assembling large boilers, layout prefabricated parts
Assemble boiler tanks, which is frequently done with robotic or automatic welders
Check for leaks and defects in boiler systems
Clean vats using scrapers, wire brushes, and cleaning solvents
Repair or replace broken valves, pipes, or joints using hand and power tools, gas torches, and welding equipment
The annual mean wage of Boilermakers by state, May 2021
Note: We estimate that Boilermaker's annual mean wage in Arizona is between $57,290 and $564,860
Employment of Boilermakers by state, May 2021
Note: We estimate that Boilermaker employment in Arizona is between 110 and 180
8. Respiratory Therapists
Respiratory therapists are among the highest-paying trade jobs for those seeking a career in healthcare. They assist patients who are experiencing respiratory problems. An associate's degree from a community college is typically required to enter the field.
Those who earn a respiratory therapy degree are likely to be in high demand. They also work in hospitals, nursing homes, sports complexes, and private offices.
This is a demanding position where you could be on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. However, this also opens up the possibility of working shifts around the clock.
2021 Median Pay: $61,830 per year ($29.73 per hour)
Typical Entry-Level Education: Associate's degree
Job Outlook, 2020-30: Respiratory therapist employment is expected to grow 23 percent between 2020 and 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations.
On average, 10,100 openings for respiratory therapists are expected each year over the next decade.
What Respiratory Therapists do
Patients with breathing difficulties, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, are cared for by respiratory therapists. Their patients range from premature infants with undeveloped lungs to elderly people with diseased lungs.
Typical duties include:
Questioning and examining patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders.
Consult with doctors about patients' conditions and treatment plans.
Conduct diagnostic tests.
Treat patients in a variety of ways.
Track and record the progress of patients.
Teach patients how to use medical equipment and medications.
The annual mean wage of Respiratory Therapists by state, May 2021
Employment of Respiratory Therapists by state, May 2021
3. Construction and Building Inspectors
Construction and building inspectors determine whether a new or existing structure complies with building codes. They also determine whether the building is safe for potential occupants. They could work for the local or state government.
The majority of building inspectors learn on the job. Many have previously held trade school jobs in construction or another skilled trade. However, many people attend vocational or trade schools to learn specific aspects of their jobs.
Some states also require licensure or certification. These programs are frequently provided by a trade or vocational school. Construction and building inspectors must be familiar with all local building codes, so a quick recall is essential.
2021 Median Pay: $61,640 per year ($29.63 per hour)
Typical Entry-Level Education: High school diploma or equivalent
Job Outlook, 2020-30: Construction and building inspector employment is expected to fall by 3% between 2020 and 2030.
Despite declining employment, an average of 14,300 openings for construction and building inspectors are expected each year over the next decade.
What Construction and Building Inspectors do
Building and construction inspectors ensure that construction complies with local and national building codes and ordinances, zoning regulations, and contract specifications.
Typical duties include:
Examine building plans and approve those that meet specifications.
Inspect construction sites on a regular basis to ensure overall compliance.
Check for plumbing leaks or flooding damage with moisture meters, and use electrical testers to ensure that electrical components are functional.
Inspect plumbing, electrical, and other systems to ensure they are code compliant.
Use survey equipment to verify structure alignment, level, and elevation and to ensure the building meets specifications.
If the building is not in compliance, issue violation notices, and stop-work orders.
Maintain daily logs that may include digital images from inspections.
Write reports on findings.
The annual mean wage of Construction and Building Inspectors by state, May 2021
Employment of Construction and Building Inspectors by state, May 2021
4. Occupational Therapy Assistant
Occupational therapy is a collection of therapeutic techniques designed to help people return to their normal lives following an injury or illness. Those in this field assist people in developing the skills they require for daily work and life.
Occupational therapists work with people of all ages and from all walks of life. They may be of assistance to people who have physical, emotional, or mental limitations. Some work exclusively with children or senior citizens, while others work with athletes or veterans of the military.
To practice, occupational therapists must have a bachelor's and a master's degree. However, an occupational therapist assistant can begin by earning an associate's degree. Many such programs are available at community colleges, trade schools, and technical colleges.
2021 Median Pay: $61,520 per year ($29.58 per hour)
Typical Entry-Level Education: Associate's degree
Job Outlook, 2020-30: Overall employment of occupational therapy assistants and aides is expected to grow 34% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the national average.
On average, 8,800 openings for occupational therapy assistants and aides are expected each year over the next decade.
What Occupational Therapy Assistants do
Occupational therapy assistants and aides assist patients in developing, recovering, improving, and maintaining the skills required for daily living and working. Occupational therapy assistants are directly involved in the delivery of therapy to patients, whereas occupational therapy aides typically provide support.
Typical duties include:
Assist patients in performing therapeutic activities such as stretches and other exercises.
Participate in play activities that promote coordination and socialization with children with developmental disabilities.
Motivate patients to finish activities and tasks.
Teach patients how to use special equipment, such as showing a Parkinson's disease patient how to use devices that make eating easier.
Keep track of patients' progress, report to occupational therapists, and perform other administrative duties.
The annual mean wage of Occupational Therapy Assistant by state, May 2021
Employment of Occupational Therapy Assistant by state, May 2021
5. Electro-Mechanical Technicians
Electro-Mechanical Technicians operate, calibrate, and maintain robotics and electromechanical equipment. This exciting trade school job pays well. However, you only need an associate's degree or a postsecondary certificate to get started.
Obviously, electro-mechanical technicians must be familiar with mechanical and electrical systems. In these roles, they frequently collaborate with engineers. To begin, most people specialize in one area of technology. As a result, they may attend trade school in engineering, technology, electrical systems, and other fields.
2021 Median Pay: $60,360 per year ($29.02 per hour)
Typical Entry-Level Education: Associate's degree
Job Outlook, 2020-30: From 2020 to 2030, employment of electromechanical and mechatronics technologists and technicians is expected to fall by 2%.
Despite declining employment, an average of 1,200 openings for electro-mechanical technicians are expected each year over the next decade.
What Electro-Mechanical Technicians do
Electro-mechanical technicians combine mechanical knowledge with electrical and electronic circuitry knowledge. They are responsible for the operation, testing, and maintenance of unmanned, automated, robotic, or electromechanical equipment.
Typical duties include:
Read blueprints, schematics, and diagrams to determine the method and sequence of assembly of a machine or piece of equipment.
Use metalworking machines to create housings, fittings, and fixtures.
Check the dimensions of the parts with precision measuring instruments.
Examine parts for surface flaws.
Repair and calibrate hydraulic and pneumatic assemblies.
Use instruments to evaluate the performance of electromechanical assemblies.
Install electronic parts and hardware with soldering equipment and hand tools.
Operate, test, or maintain robotic equipment.
Analyze and document test results.
The annual mean wage of Electro-Mechanical Technicians by state, May 2021
Employment of Electro-Mechanical Technicians by state, May 2021
6. Electricians
Electricians have been in high demand for nearly a century, and the profession never goes out of style. Almost every building in the country has an electrical system. Yes, many of the systems and appliances in our homes have been upgraded. However, the underlying electrical work in homes and businesses has remained critical.
Electricians also have some of the most comprehensive educational paths for newcomers looking to enter a high-paying trade. Many states require workers to obtain a license before performing electrical system work. In addition, many states provide both apprenticeship and trade school pathways to sitting for an electrician exam.
Annual mean wage of Electricians by state, May 2021
Employment of Electricians by state for May 2021
7. Plumbers
Plumbers have one of the highest-paying jobs available with a trade school diploma. And they're not going anywhere anytime soon. Plumbers are required for almost every construction project in the country. They are also one of the most frequently requested tradespeople in residential settings.
Most plumbers learned their trade through apprenticeships in the past. Today, however, many people start their careers by attending a trade school. Many states require plumbers to be licensed.
Plumbers frequently work odd hours to make emergency house calls. They frequently have to work nights and weekends as well. These visits, however, are frequently billed at a premium rate. As a result, they provide an opportunity for plumbers to earn even more money.
2021 Median Pay: $59,880 per year ($28.79 per hour)
Typical Entry-Level Education: High school diploma or equivalent
Job Outlook, 2020-30: Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters are expected to grow 5% between 2020 and 2030, slower than the average for all occupations.
Despite slowing job growth, an average of 51,000 openings for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters are expected each year over the next decade.
What Plumbers do
Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters are individuals who install and repair piping fixtures and systems.
Typical duties include:
Creating cost estimates for customers.
Follow state and local building codes and read blueprints.
Determine the materials and tools required for a job.
Set up the pipes and fixtures.
Inspect and test pipe systems and pipelines that have been installed.
Resolve problems with malfunctioning systems.
Maintain and repair plumbing systems.
Annual mean wage of Plumbers by state, May 2021
Employment of Plumbers by state, May 2021
Final Thoughts
Many people believe that skilled tradespeople make poor wages. In reality, many of the highest-paying trade jobs pay close to or above the median household income in the United States. Some have the potential to pay six figures once you've gained experience.
In this guide, we took you through some of the easy jobs that pay well in Arizona right now and we hope this guide helps you in finding a potential career in the future.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What trades are in demand in Arizona?
Air Traffic Controller, Web Developer, Radion Therapist, and Electrician, are some of the many trade jobs in demand due to very attractive salaries in Arizona.
What trade jobs make 100K a year?
There are a few trade jobs that pay 100K+ and being an Air Traffic Controller is one of them.
How can I make 60000 a year without a degree?
There are a number of trade career options that will get you 60K+ and being an Electrician, Boilermaker or a Respiration Therapist are some of them.