Highest Paying Construction Jobs in the US [2025 Updated]

Last Updated on July 25, 2025 by Admin

The construction industry is experiencing unprecedented growth, with over 380,100 new jobs projected through 2033 and record-high employment of 8.0 million workers in 2023. For skilled professionals, construction offers some of the most lucrative career opportunities available without requiring a traditional four-year college degree. This comprehensive guide reveals the 15 highest-paying construction jobs in the US, with current salary data, requirements, and proven strategies for maximizing your earning potential in this thriving industry.

Whether you’re a high school graduate exploring trade careers, a mid-career professional considering a switch to blue-collar work, or a construction recruiter benchmarking compensation, this analysis provides the authoritative data you need to make informed career decisions in today’s competitive construction market.

Top 15 Highest Paying Construction Jobs: Complete Salary Analysis

The Elite Tier: Six-Figure Construction Careers

1. Construction Managers – $106,980 Median Salary

Construction managers lead the highest-paying construction jobs in the US, with a median annual salary of $106,980 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics May 2024 data. Top earners exceed $172,040 annually, with the highest-paying states including New York ($156,760), New Jersey ($149,900), and Massachusetts ($144,830).

Key responsibilities include:

• Planning, coordinating, and supervising construction projects from start to finish
• Managing project schedules, budgets, and quality control
• Coordinating with architects, engineers, and subcontractors
• Ensuring compliance with building codes and safety regulations

Career requirements:
Most positions require a bachelor’s degree in construction management, civil engineering, or architecture, plus 1-5 years of related experience. The Certified Construction Manager (CCM) credential from CMAA is considered the “gold standard,” while the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification can increase salaries by 32% on average.

Growth outlook: 9% projected growth through 2033, with 45,800 annual openings expected due to population growth and infrastructure investment.

2. Elevator Installers and Repairers – $106,580 Median Salary

Elevator installers represent the highest-paying construction trade, with a median salary of $106,580 and top earners exceeding $149,250 annually. Massachusetts leads compensation at $122,020, while Washington DC and New York also offer premium wages.

This specialized trade requires a 4-5 year apprenticeship through the National Elevator Industry Educational Program (NEIEP), including 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 600+ hours of classroom instruction. Most states require elevator mechanic licensing.

Premium skills that command higher pay:

• Advanced electronics and computerized control systems
• Hydraulic and traction system expertise
• Modernization and retrofit specialization
• Emergency service availability

Growth outlook: 6% growth through 2033, driven by urbanization and aging elevator infrastructure.

3. Power Plant Operators – $103,600 Median Salary

Power plant operators earn a median salary of $103,600, with experienced professionals earning $135,500 or more. These critical infrastructure roles require monitoring power-generating equipment, controlling electrical distribution, and responding to system emergencies.

Education requirements: High school diploma plus extensive on-the-job training (1-2 years). Nuclear plant operators require specialized licensing through the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.

4. Pipeline Engineers – $114,725-$123,155 Average Salary

Pipeline engineers design and oversee natural gas and petroleum pipeline systems, with salaries ranging from $107,500 entry-level to over $184,259 for experienced professionals. Oil and gas regions typically offer premium compensation.

Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in civil, mechanical, or petroleum engineering. Professional Engineer (PE) license often required for senior positions.

The High-Earning Specialists: $75,000-$100,000+ Range

5. Architects/Structural Engineers in Construction – $80,369-$128,325

Structural engineers specializing in construction earn between $80,369-$128,325 annually, with civil engineers averaging $99,590 according to BLS data. Top 10% earn over $202,000.

Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in structural or civil engineering required. Professional Engineering (PE) license essential for career advancement and public projects.

6. Chief Estimators/Cost Engineers – $98,500-$126,189

Chief estimators develop comprehensive cost estimates for construction projects, earning $98,500-$126,189 annually depending on experience and market. Senior-level positions can exceed $160,000 in major markets like New York and Chicago.

Key skills: Advanced estimating software proficiency, BIM integration, risk analysis, and database management command premium pay.

7. Electrical Power-Line Installers – $92,560 Median Salary

Power-line installers maintain electrical transmission systems with a median salary of $92,560. Top earners exceed $126,610, with Hawaii leading at $104,480 mean salary.

Training: 3-4 year apprenticeship through unions or utility companies, including high-voltage safety procedures and specialized equipment operation.

8. Safety Managers – $88,480-$100,100

Construction safety managers ensure OSHA compliance and workplace safety, earning $88,480-$100,100 annually. The role is increasingly critical as the industry faces persistent labor shortages and safety challenges.

Premium certifications:

• Certified Safety Professional (CSP) – industry gold standard
• Construction Health and Safety Technician (CHST)
• OSHA Trainer Certification

9. Project Engineers – $87,330 Median Salary

Project engineers coordinate design and execution teams, earning a median salary of $87,330 with ranges from $65,000-$132,000+ based on experience. Those with Project Management Professional (PMP) certification average $119,000.

The Skilled Trades Elite: $60,000-$85,000 Range

10. Crane Operators – $65,220-$80,674

Mobile and tower crane operators earn $65,220-$80,674 on average, with experienced operators in specialized applications reaching $95,820+. National certification through NCCCO is preferred by employers.

11. Boilermakers – $73,340 Median Salary

Boilermakers assemble and maintain large vessels containing liquids and gases, earning a median salary of $73,340. Top earners exceed $112,320, particularly in power plants and refineries.

12. Construction Inspectors – $72,120 Median Salary

Construction inspectors ensure code compliance with a median salary of $72,120. State licensing is required in most areas, with ICC certifications commanding premium pay.

13. Structural Iron and Steel Workers – $62,700 Median Salary

Ironworkers erect a structural framework with a median salary of $62,700. Specialized skills in high-rise construction, welding, and rigging can significantly increase earning potential.

14. Construction Equipment Operators – $58,320 Median Salary

Heavy equipment operators earn a median salary of $58,320, with experienced operators on specialized machinery earning up to $99,930. Multiple equipment certifications and GPS/laser systems expertise command premium pay.

15. Commercial Divers (Underwater Construction) – $49,980-$200,000+

Commercial divers show the widest salary range, from $49,980 median to over $200,000 for specialized offshore work. Underwater welding certification and saturation diving capabilities command significant premiums.

Geographic Salary Variations: Where Construction Pays Best

Metropolitan Areas with Premium Construction Wages

• Trenton, NJ: Highest-paying metro area nationally
• San Francisco Bay Area: Premium wages reflecting high living costs
• Chicago: Major construction hub with competitive compensation
• Boston: High wages reflecting regional trends
• Washington DC metro: Government projects drive demand

Top States with the Strongest Construction Job Growth

Construction employment across the US remains strong in 2025, with several states experiencing significant job growth driven by infrastructure projects, residential demand, and business expansion.

Analysis and Highlights

• Texas continues to lead all states in both absolute construction jobs added and overall opportunities, due to its booming infrastructure and vibrant tech-driven markets.
• Florida maintains rapid job creation, especially in areas of population growth, urban development, and climate resilience projects.
• New Mexico stands out for the fastest year-over-year percentage increase in construction jobs, signaling rising opportunities for early entrants.
• Idaho and South Carolina post strong percentage growth, highlighting the impact of population increases and infrastructure projects.
• Virginia, Michigan, Kentucky, and Ohio are all outpacing the national average in construction job growth, driven by a mix of state initiatives, infrastructure funding, and robust demand for new construction work.

Other States Worth Watching

• Washington: Forecasting significant growth in new home construction and urban projects.
• Georgia: High per-capita commercial construction spending.
• Oklahoma, Nevada, Alaska, and Hawaii: Experiencing notable job growth in commercial and residential construction, with Alaska and Hawaii seeing especially high percentage gains.

These high-growth markets often offer competitive wages to attract workers, creating opportunities for geographic arbitrage.

Industry Trends Driving Salary Growth

Major Growth Drivers Through 2025

Infrastructure Investment Impact The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) provides $1.2 trillion in authorized spending over five years, with $550 billion in new investments above baseline. Key funding areas include roads/bridges (68%), rail, broadband, power, and water projects.

Data Center Construction Boom, AI and cloud services expansion drives massive data center construction, with these facilities expected to consume up to 12% of total electricity generation by 2030. This creates high-demand opportunities for electrical contractors, HVAC specialists, and construction managers.

Renewable Energy Expansion
Electricity capacity is projected to increase 42.3% from 2023-2033, with renewable capacity growing 141.8%. This trend particularly benefits electrical power-line installers, project engineers, and specialized construction managers.

Electric Vehicle Infrastructure With EV sales approaching 10% of new vehicles, massive charging infrastructure expansion creates opportunities across multiple construction specialties.

Technology’s Impact on Construction Careers

Artificial Intelligence Integration The AI market in construction is expected to grow from $3.99 billion (2024) to $11.85 billion (2029). 40% of construction firms are investing in drones, while 30% are adopting AI technologies for project management and safety monitoring.

Premium Technology Skills

• Building Information Modeling (BIM) proficiency
• Drone operation (FAA Part 107 certification)
• GPS and laser grading systems
• IoT sensors and connected devices
• 3D printing applications

These technological competencies can increase salaries by 25-35% across multiple construction roles.

Education and Training Pathways to High-Paying Construction Careers

Four Distinct Pathways to Success

1. Apprenticeship Route (2-4 years)

• Best for: Hands-on learners who want to earn while training
• Cost: Minimal (earn wages during training)
• Timeline: 2-4 years, depending on trade
• Outcome: Journey-level certification in skilled trades

Notable programs:

• National Elevator Industry Educational Program (NEIEP) for elevator installers
• International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) for electricians
• Union apprenticeships through NABTU (North America’s Building Trades Unions)

2. Technical/Vocational Training (6 months-2 years)

• Best for: Career changers seeking quick entry
• Cost: $900-$15,000 typically
• Timeline: 6 months to 2 years
• Outcome: Industry certifications and job-ready skills

3. Associate Degree Programs (2 years)

• Best for: Those seeking management track positions
• Cost: $5,000-$15,000 annually at community colleges
• Specializations: Construction management technology, civil engineering technology, building construction

4. Bachelor’s Degree Path (4 years)

• Best for: Management and professional roles
• Required for: Construction managers, engineers, architects
• ROI: Higher starting salaries and advancement potential

Critical Certifications That Boost Earnings

Project Management

• Project Management Professional (PMP): 25% higher earnings potential
• Certified Construction Manager (CCM): Industry gold standard
• Cost: $385-$555 for exams

Safety Certifications

• OSHA 30-Hour: Required for supervisors ($200-$400)
• Certified Safety Professional (CSP): Premium safety role qualification
• Construction Health and Safety Technician (CHST): Entry-level safety certification

Specialized Trade Certifications

• American Welding Society (AWS) certifications: Multiple specializations
• LEED certification: Growing demand for sustainable construction
• National certification through NCCCO: For crane operators

Entry-Level vs. Experienced Professional Salary Progression

Typical Salary Growth Patterns

Construction Managers:

• Entry-level: $64,480-$73,820
• Mid-career (5-10 years): $85,000-$110,000
• Senior level (10+ years): $135,550-$172,040+

Elevator Installers:

• Apprentice (Year 1): ~$27,000 (50% of journeyman wage)
• Apprentice (Year 4): ~$75,000 (increasing annually)
• Journeyman: $88,000-$106,580
• Specialist/Supervisor: $120,000-$149,250+

Project Engineers:

• Entry-level: $55,000-$70,000
• Mid-career (3-5 years): $70,000-$85,000
• Senior level (5+ years): $85,000-$110,000+
• Project Manager (8-12 years): $97,000 average

Factors Accelerating Salary Growth

Geographic Mobility Moving to high-paying markets can increase salaries by 25-50%, though cost-of-living adjustments must be considered.

Specialized Skills Development

• Hot line electrical work: 20-30% premium
• Underwater welding: 50-100% premium over standard rates
• High-rise construction: 15-25% premium
• Nuclear plant work: Significant premiums due to specialized requirements

Leadership Development Progression from individual contributor to supervisor to manager can double or triple earning potential over a 10-15 year period.

Skills and Qualifications That Command Premium Pay

Technical Skills in High Demand

Digital Construction Technologies

• BIM (Building Information Modeling): AutoCAD, Revit, Bentley proficiency
• Project management software: Primavera P6, Microsoft Project
• Estimating software: Sage Estimating, ProEst, PlanSwift
• Drone operation: FAA Part 107 license for surveying and inspection

Specialized Trade Expertise

• Advanced welding: Combination welding, pipe welding, specializations
• High-voltage electrical: Power transmission and distribution
• HVAC controls: Smart building systems and energy efficiency
• Green building: Solar installation, energy auditing, sustainable materials

Soft Skills That Differentiate High Earners

Leadership and Management

• Team building and motivation
• Project coordination and communication
• Conflict resolution and negotiation
• Safety culture development

Business Acumen

• Contract negotiation and administration
• Cost control and financial management
• Risk assessment and mitigation
• Client relationship management

Professional Development Strategies

Continuous Learning Approach

• Industry conferences: AGC, AIC, specialty trade associations
• Professional certifications: Maintain and upgrade credentials
• Cross-training: Learn multiple trades or specializations
• Technology adoption: Stay current with industry innovations

Network Building

• Trade associations: Join relevant professional organizations
• Mentorship: Both receiving and providing guidance
• Supplier relationships: Build industry connections
• Alumni networks: Leverage educational connections

Future Outlook: Construction Career Projections Through 2033

Industry Growth Projections

The construction industry projects 4.7% employment growth from 2023-2033, faster than the 4.0% average for all industries. This translates to approximately 380,100 new jobs and total employment reaching 8.4 million by 2033.

Fastest-growing construction specialties:

• Power and communication line construction: 6.6%
• Electrical contractors: 6.6%
• Plumbing, heating, and air-conditioning: 6.0%
• Nonresidential building construction: 5.9%

Labor Market Dynamics

Critical Worker Shortage: The industry needs 501,000 additional workers in 2024 according to Associated Builders and Contractors, with 77% of contractors reporting difficulty filling positions. This shortage drives wage inflation and creates premium opportunities for skilled workers.

Demographic Challenges With 20% of construction workers over age 55, retirement-driven openings will create advancement opportunities. However, only 5% of students currently consider construction careers, intensifying talent competition.

Technology Integration Opportunities

Emerging High-Pay Specializations

• AI-powered project management: Predictive analytics and optimization
• Robotics integration: Automated construction processes
• Smart building systems: IoT sensors and connected infrastructure
• 3D printing construction: Additive manufacturing applications
• Virtual/Augmented Reality: Training, design, and project visualization

Frequently Asked Questions

What construction job pays the most money? Construction managers currently earn the highest median salary at $106,980, followed closely by elevator installers at $106,580. However, specialized roles like pipeline engineers can earn $150,000-$184,000+ with experience.

Can you make six figures in construction without a college degree?
Yes, multiple construction trades offer six-figure earning potential through apprenticeships and specialized training, including elevator installers, power plant operators, and experienced crane operators in specialized applications.

Which states pay construction workers the most? Massachusetts leads at $48.90/hour average, followed by Washington ($47.30/hour) and New Jersey ($45.60/hour). However, cost-of-living adjustments favor states like Illinois, Alaska, and North Dakota.

How long does it take to become a construction manager? Most construction managers need a bachelor’s degree plus 1-5 years of related experience. Alternative paths include working up from skilled trades with additional management training, typically taking 8-15 years total.

Are construction jobs in high demand? Yes, the industry needs 501,000 additional workers in 2024, with 77% of contractors reporting hiring difficulties. Strong demand exists across all skill levels, from entry-level to management positions.

Take Action: Your Path to High-Paying Construction Career Success

The construction industry offers exceptional earning potential for those willing to invest in their skills and career development. With median wages of $58,360 nationally and top earners exceeding $172,000 annually, construction provides pathways to financial success that often surpass traditional college-educated careers.

Your next steps:

1. Assess your interests and aptitudes – Consider hands-on vs. management roles, indoor vs. outdoor work preferences, and geographic flexibility
2. Research training programs – Explore apprenticeships, technical schools, and degree programs that align with your chosen career path
3. Start with foundational certifications – OSHA safety training, basic trade certifications, or project management credentials
4. Build your professional network – Join local trade associations, attend industry events, and connect with professionals in your target field
5. Plan your geographic strategy – Consider relocating to high-paying markets or emerging growth regions

The skilled construction professional shortage creates unprecedented opportunities for career advancement and earning growth. Whether you’re starting fresh or pivoting from another career, the construction industry rewards those who combine technical expertise with professional development and safety consciousness.

Ready to build your future in construction? Start by identifying your optimal career path from the 15 highest-paying opportunities outlined above, then take concrete steps toward the training and certifications that will maximize your earning potential in this thriving industry.

Related Posts:

• Civil Engineering Salary Guide [2025 Updated]
• Determining Commercial Property Insurance Costs
• Who Pays for Builders’ Risk Insurance? Key Answers
• Builder’s Risk Insurance Guide 2025: Protecting Your Construction Project
• Exploring the Various Types of Construction Jobs: Your Ultimate Guide to Building a Career in Construction