The Highest Paying Technician Jobs: Salaries, Career Paths, and Opportunities

Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians

Aircraft mechanics and service technicians diagnose, adjust, repair, and overhaul aircraft engines and assemblies, such as hydraulic and pneumatic systems. Their work ensures that aircraft are safe, reliable, and ready for flight. They perform routine maintenance, troubleshoot mechanical problems, and conduct detailed inspections to comply with aviation safety regulations. These professionals play a critical role in the aviation and aerospace industries, ensuring the safety and efficiency of air travel.

In 2023, there were approximately 161,000 jobs in this field, with employment projected to grow by 4% from 2022 to 2032. This growth rate is about as fast as the average for all occupations, reflecting the ongoing demand for skilled technicians to maintain and repair the expanding fleet of aircraft.

The median annual wage for aircraft mechanics and service technicians was $75,020 in May 2023. The top-paying industry for this role is the oil and gas extraction sector, with an annual mean wage of $119,580.

Entry into this career typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and completion of a course from an FAA-approved Aircraft Maintenance Technician School (AMTS). Coursework includes subjects like aviation technology, electronics, and physics. On-the-job training and apprenticeships are standard, providing hands-on experience. Additionally, aircraft mechanics must be certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). There are two main certifications: Airframe and Powerplant (A&P). Technicians can specialize in avionics, composite materials, or specific aircraft types, such as helicopters or jets.

Nuclear Medicine Technologists

Nuclear medicine technologists are specialized healthcare professionals who prepare and administer radioactive drugs for imaging or treatment. They use sophisticated equipment to capture images of how radioactive substances behave in the body, which helps doctors diagnose and treat various conditions. Their responsibilities include explaining procedures to patients, ensuring the safe handling of radioactive materials, and maintaining precise records of the radioactive substances they use. Using radioactive materials provides critical information that helps in the early detection and treatment of diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and neurological disorders.

In 2023, there were about 18,100 jobs in this field, with employment projected to show little or no change from 2022 to 2032. This stable outlook is due to the balance between new job openings and the need to replace workers who retire or leave the workforce.

In May 2023, the median annual wage for nuclear medicine technologists was $95,080. Outpatient care centres are the top-paying industry for this role, with an annual mean wage of $132,960.

Entry into this career typically requires an associate's or bachelor's degree in nuclear medicine technology. These programs include anatomy, chemistry, physics, radiopharmacy, and clinical training courses. Certification is crucial and can be obtained through organizations such as the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) or the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Continuing education is essential to stay current with technological advancements and maintain certification.

Telecommunications Technicians

Telecommunications technicians are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing the infrastructure that enables radio, internet, and other telecommunications services. Their work includes setting up and servicing various devices and networks, including routers, switches, and cable systems. They ensure that telecommunication systems operate efficiently and troubleshoot any issues that arise to maintain seamless communication services. They handle complex technical equipment and work in diverse environments, from residential homes to large office buildings.

In 2023, there were about 299,300 jobs in this field, with employment projected to grow by 6% from 2022 to 2032. This growth rate is faster than the average for all occupations, reflecting the ongoing demand for skilled technicians to maintain and upgrade telecommunications infrastructure.

In May 2023, the median annual wage for telecommunications technicians was $62,350. New Jersey is the top-paying state for this role, with an annual mean wage of $74,860.

Entry into this career typically requires at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Many employers prefer candidates with certificates or associate degrees in telecommunications, electronics, or related fields. Obtaining certifications from recognized bodies, such as the Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers (SCTE) or the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA), can enhance a technician’s credentials and job prospects. These certifications validate a technician’s skills and knowledge in the field.

Electro-mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians

Electro-mechanical and mechatronics technologists and technicians operate, test, and maintain electromechanical or robotic equipment. They work with electrical and mechanical engineers and are involved in various industries, including manufacturing, scientific research, and transportation. Their tasks include reading blueprints, verifying the dimensions of parts, operating metalworking machines, and using instruments to test the performance of assemblies.

In 2023, there were about 15,200 jobs in this field, with employment projected to decline by 3% from 2022 to 2032. Despite this decline, about 1,300 openings are projected yearly due to the need to replace workers who transfer to other occupations or exit the labour force.

In May 2023, the median annual wage for electromechanical and mechatronics technologists and technicians was $65,080. The top-paying industry for this role is navigational, measuring, electromedical, and control instrument manufacturing, with an annual mean wage of $61,030.

Entry into this career typically requires an associate's degree or a postsecondary certificate in electro-mechanical technology, mechatronics, or industrial maintenance. These programs, offered at community colleges and vocational-technical schools, often include algebra, trigonometry, and sciences courses. Employers may prefer graduates from programs accredited by organizations such as ABET.

Biological Technicians

Biological technicians help biological and medical scientists conduct laboratory tests and experiments. They set up, operate, and maintain laboratory instruments and equipment, prepare biological samples, conduct tests, and analyze results. They work primarily in laboratories, often under the supervision of biologists or medical scientists.

In 2023, there were about 81,400 jobs in this field. Employment is projected to grow by 5% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by increasing demand for biological and medical research.

In May 2023, the median annual wage for biological technicians was $51,430. Pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing is the top-paying industry for this role.

Entry into this career typically requires a bachelor's degree in biology or a related field. Some positions may be available to candidates with less education but with laboratory experience. Biology programs usually include subfields such as ecology, microbiology, and physiology, emphasising laboratory experience.

Wind Turbine Technicians

Wind turbine service technicians maintain and repair wind turbines, ensuring their proper operation and efficiency. They perform routine maintenance, troubleshooting, testing systems, and replacing parts. Wind turbine technicians work outdoors, often in confined spaces and at great heights, making safety procedures crucial.

In 2023, there were about 11,200 jobs in this field, with employment projected to grow by 45% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations. This rapid growth reflects the increasing reliance on wind energy.

In May 2023, the median annual wage for wind turbine technicians was $61,770. Wind power generation is the top-paying industry for this role.

Entry into this career typically requires a postsecondary nondegree award in wind energy technology, often obtained from a technical school or community college. These programs include energy fundamentals, safety compliance, applied physics, and wind technology courses. On-the-job training, typically lasting over 12 months, is also standard.

Agricultural and Food Science Technicians

Agricultural and food science technicians are crucial in assisting scientists by conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing samples, and ensuring the quality and safety of food and agricultural products. They work in diverse settings, including laboratories, processing plants, farms, ranches, greenhouses, and offices. Their duties involve supporting research efforts, performing quality control tests, and maintaining accurate records to help improve agricultural productivity and food quality.

There were about 38,800 jobs in this field in 2023. Employment is projected to grow by 5% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth will result in approximately 5,500 job openings yearly, driven by the need to replace workers who retire or transfer to other occupations.

In May 2023, the median annual wage for agricultural technicians was $43,180, while food science technicians earned a median annual wage of $49,090. California is the top-paying state for this role, with an annual mean wage of $58,020.

An associate’s degree in biology, chemistry, crop or animal science, or a related field is typically required. Some positions may require a bachelor’s degree, while others accept a high school diploma with relevant work experience.