Key takeaways:
- Some high-paying trade jobs that typically don’t require a degree include boilermaker, aircraft mechanic, and nuclear power reactor operator.
- Trade careers usually require certification, paid apprenticeship, a trade school education, or a combination of the three.
- Trade schools and apprenticeships cover hands-on training and classroom instruction to prepare students for the workforce in their desired field.
While college is a necessity for a variety of careers, not every job requires a degree. Many companies hire individuals straight out of high school, apprenticeships, and trade school for certain fields – and many pay well, too! Before we list 10 high-paying trade jobs, it helps to understand what a trade school is and the benefits of attending one.
What Is a Trade School
A trade school is an educational institution that provides specialized training that equips students for specific careers. Trade schools may also be known as vocational or technical schools, but there are slight differences between the three. They typically offer short-term programs designed to prepare students for direct entry into the workforce.
Many trade school programs include apprenticeships or internships that provide students with on-the-job training, which allows students to gain valuable industry knowledge. Some career options include aircraft service technicians, electricians, cosmetologists, welders, and plumbers.
Benefits of attending trade school
Attending a trade school offers several benefits for students seeking a well-paying career.
- Shorter time frame required to complete a program: Many trade programs last up to 2 years, though you may be required to join a paid apprenticeship for several years depending on your career field.
- Lower tuition costs: Trade school is typically much more affordable than a 4-year degree program, which could mean less student loan debt.
- Hands-on training: Trade programs teach you the skills and knowledge you need to perform your job well after graduation.
- Enter the workforce and earn earlier: Since you finish trade school in 2 years or less, you can start earning a salary faster. Even if you go to an apprenticeship straight out of high school or trade school, it’s paid.
- High-demand jobs: Many trades are hiring with competitive salaries and benefits.
What is an apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a paid, structured training program in a selected field. Often offered by unions, participants learn the skilled trade through hands-on training and courses in the classroom. Apprenticeship classes can cover safety regulations, math, blueprint reading, and more. With on-the-job training, you’ll work directly with experienced professionals on real jobs.
Apprenticeships typically last three to four years, and you may earn a certificate after completion depending on the field. They’re paid, so you’ll start earning an income on day one. Plus, your salary will increase as you gain more experience.
Many trade school programs connect you with apprenticeships after graduation.
10 high-paying trade jobs
These are some of the highest paying trade jobs in 2026 that often don’t require an associate’s or bachelor’s degree, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
1. NUCLEAR POWER REACTOR OPERATOR
- Percentage of workers with a high school diploma or some college: 60%
- 2026 Median Annual Pay: $122,000
- Expected Job Outlook, 2024-34: -10%
Nuclear power operators are responsible for operating, controlling, and maintaining nuclear reactors. As part of their job, they start and stop equipment, recording data generated, which is sent to be analyzed if and when necessary. They also monitor and adjust the controls of generators, reactors, coiling systems, and turbines. In case of any problems or abnormalities in any of the equipment, they conduct a thorough inspection to determine the cause and take corrective action.
Nuclear power reactor operators are typically employed by utilities companies and the government. They usually start working as equipment operators or auxiliary operators and undergo rigorous on-the-long job training and technical instruction before becoming fully qualified to work without supervision.
2. ELEVATOR AND ESCALATOR INSTALLER AND REPAIRER
- Percentage of workers with a high school diploma or some college: 72%
- 2026 Median Annual Pay: $106,000
- Expected Job Outlook, 2024-34: 5%
Elevator and escalator installers and repairers do exactly what the title describes! They are responsible for installing and maintaining elevators and escalators. They can also conduct safety assessments, equipment testing, and more to ensure these modes of transportation are working properly and safely.
While a high school diploma is enough to get started in the field, elevator and escalator installers and repairers will have to first complete an apprenticeship. These take about four years to complete. And depending on the state, the individual may also have to have a valid license to work.
3. BIOMASS PLANT TECHNICIAN
- Percentage of workers with a high school diploma or some college: 60%
- 2026 Median Annual Pay: $99,000
- Expected Job Outlook, 2024-34: -10%
Biomass plant technicians ensure that biomass power plants operate smoothly and efficiently to generate electricity by burning organic materials. They are responsible for operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting the plant’s various systems and equipment, including turbines, boilers, and fuel storage and handling systems.
These specialists handle various tasks at biomass power plants including conducting regular inspections and maintenance tasks, monitoring plant operations, and adjusting and optimizing equipment settings and plant processes to maximize energy production. They also oversee the supply and storage of biomass fuel and coordinate with fuel suppliers to ensure there is enough supply for continuous operations.
4. Aircraft Mechanic and Service Technicians
- Percentage of workers with a high school diploma or some college: 61%
- 2026 Median Annual Pay: $78K
- Expected Job Outlook, 2024-34: 5%
Aircraft mechanics and service technicians diagnose problems, inspect, and maintain aircraft. They also install, test, and adjust systems and equipment in aircrafts. In-depth knowledge of aircraft systems and how they work is a critical aspect of this job.
While a degree isn’t required to become an aircraft mechanic, most enroll in an FAA-approved Aviation Maintenance Technician program. They typically last 18 to 24 months, after which you can test for FAA certification. Others gain relevant work experience before taking the test.
5. Boilermaker
- Percentage of workers with a high school diploma or some college: 68%
- 2026 Median Annual Pay: $73,000
- Expected Job Outlook, 2024-34: -2%
Boilermakers work with boilers, vats, pressure vessels, storage tanks, and other containers and equipment that hold liquids and gasses. They’re responsible for assembly, installation, maintenance, and repair of these containers, and you’ll often find them in power plants, shipyards, factories, and refineries.
You’ll typically need welding experience or certifications to start a career as a boilermaker with a roughly 4-year paid apprenticeship program.
6. MILLWRIGHT
- Percentage of workers with a high school diploma or some college: 80%
- 2026 Median Annual Pay: $65,000
- Expected Job Outlook, 2024-34: 13%
Millwrights, also known as industrial machinery mechanics and machinery maintenance workers, work with heavy industrial machinery. They cover everything from installation to repairs on equipment such as conveyor systems, robotics, generators, turbines, and manufacturing machines.
Millwright apprenticeships last about three to five years with up to 2,000 on-the-job training hours. Some in the field earn a relevant certificate or pursue an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Industrial Maintenance Technology.
7. Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanic
- Percentage of workers with a high school diploma or some college: 67%
- 2026 Median Annual Pay: $63,000
- Expected Job Outlook, 2024-34: 6%
Heavy equipment mechanics are responsible for diagnosing and repairing equipment used in construction, mining, logging, farming, and other similar industries. The equipment can include everything from cranes to graders. This position requires individuals who can focus on the details and use computerized diagnosis tools.
There is no set education path to becoming a heavy equipment mechanic. Some positions will simply train you on the job. However, trade schools do often offer classes on the subject which could help you enter these high paying trade jobs.
8. Plumber, Pipefitter, and Steamfitter
- Percentage with a High School Diploma: 71%
- 2026 Median Annual Pay: $62K
- Expected Job Outlook, 2024-34: 4%
Plumbers work to repair pipes, plumbing systems, and sprinklers in homes as well as businesses. They can assist with leaks, maintenance, and installation. Some also work with HVAC systems and water heaters.
Nearly half of those in plumbing have no college experience and about 25% have some college experience but no degree. Depending on the state however, you may be required to get a plumbing license. Every state has different requirements as well as fees and forms.
9. Structural Iron and Steel Worker
- Percentage of workers with a high school diploma or some college: 75%
- 2026 Median Annual Pay: $62,000
- Expected Job Outlook, 2024-34: 4%
Also known as ironworkers, structural iron and steel workers focus on installing iron and steel for buildings, bridges, roads, and similar. You need to be comfortable working at heights and in a variety of weather conditions.
Ironworkers learn most of the skills they need through a 3-to-4 year apprenticeship, though strong math skills, welding experience, and safety training comes in handy.
10. Electrician
- Percentage of workers with a high school diploma or some college: 67%
- 2026 Median Annual Pay: $62K
- Expected Job Outlook, 2024-34: 9%
Electricians are responsible for installing, maintaining, repairing, and diagnosing electrical work. Depending on where they work this can include equipment, service lights, intercoms, and more.
A high school diploma is generally enough to become an apprentice. The apprenticeship itself takes about 4 to 5 years to complete, unless the individual attends trade school. Electricians may also be required to pass a test and have a license to work depending on their location.
Other Common High Paying Trade Jobs
Here are a few more high paying trade jobs that don’t always require a degree and the respective 2026 median annual pay:
- Landscape Architect – $79,000
- MRI Technologist – $88,000
- Commercial Diver – $61,000
- HVAC Mechanic and Installer – $59,000
- Air Traffic Controller – $144,000
- Oil and Gas Rotary Drill Operator – $65,000
- Wind Turbine Service Technician – $62,000
- Web Developer – $90,000
- Carpenter – $59,000
Tips For Choosing The Right Trade School For You
Trade schools offer a variety of programs for students to choose from. When shortlisting trade schools:
- Review paths to your desired career. Not all trade jobs require a 2-year college degree or formal certification. Review how you can enter the career to determine if trade school is right for your goals.
- Make sure the school’s program offers what you are looking for. Programs are structured differently even if they’re named the same. Choose an accredited program that aligns with your career goals.
- Compare the job placement rates of different schools. Ideally, you want to choose a school that has higher job placement rates in your specific field.
There are plenty of careers you can enter straight out of high school! Those who would like further opportunities such as promotions may want to pursue higher education within that field down the road. Research job outlooks, promotion requirements, and more to understand what the position requires of you, especially after you get some experience under your belt.
Are you curious about other jobs that only require a high school diploma? Or maybe you want to learn about promotion opportunities? Use our Career Finder to uncover the facts about positions including responsibilities, job outlook, median salaries, and more.
