10 Highest Paying Trades in Washington State (2025)
Salary data sourced from Bureau of Labor Statistics and Washington State Employment Security Department, 2024-2025
The demand for skilled trades continues to grow in Washington State. With a strong economy, ongoing infrastructure projects, and a rising need for renewable energy and transportation, trade careers are offering excellent wages and long-term stability. If you are considering a hands-on career that pays well without requiring a traditional four-year degree, these ten trades stand out in 2025.
Important Salary Disclaimers:
- The salaries listed represent upper-tier earning potential for experienced workers in these trades
- Many figures reflect wages for workers in the 75th-90th percentile of their field
- Entry-level wages typically start 40-60% lower than these figures
- Geographic location within Washington significantly impacts wages (Seattle area vs. rural areas)
- Most careers require 2-4 years of apprenticeship or technical training before reaching full earning potential
- Total compensation often includes valuable benefits packages not reflected in base salary
1. Construction Manager – $123,140*
Construction managers oversee projects from start to finish, coordinating workers, budgets, and timelines. This role blends technical knowledge with leadership skills and commands top wages in Washington due to constant commercial and residential development. High demand is particularly driven by industry retirements, creating excellent opportunities for newcomers.
*Note: This represents senior-level management positions. Entry to mid-level construction managers typically earn $75,000-$95,000.
Training Required: Bachelor’s degree in construction management or related field, or extensive trade experience plus management training. Physical Demands: Moderate – primarily office work with regular construction site visits.
2. Elevator Mechanic – $111,410*
Elevator mechanics install, maintain, and repair elevators, escalators, and similar equipment. Because of the technical skill required and the critical importance of safety, these professionals command exceptional wages. The field is growing with EV/green energy infrastructure development, making it an increasingly valuable specialization.
*Note: This figure represents top-tier earnings. Median wages typically range $85,000-$95,000 in Washington.
Training Required: 4-year apprenticeship program through elevator companies or unions. Physical Demands: High – working in cramped spaces, lifting heavy components, potential height exposure.
3. Electrical Lineworker – $99,130
Electrical lineworkers build and maintain power lines that keep Washington’s cities and towns running. They often work outdoors and sometimes in hazardous conditions, but the pay and benefits are excellent. These professionals are essential for grid infrastructure, especially as the state expands renewable energy capacity.
Training Required: 3-4 year apprenticeship through utility companies or IBEW union. Physical Demands: Very High – outdoor work in all weather, climbing poles/towers, high-voltage electrical hazards.
4. Power Plant Operator – $98,720
Power plant operators monitor and control systems that generate electricity. This highly responsible role ensures communities and industries receive reliable power. With Washington’s mix of hydro, wind, and natural gas power plants, skilled operators are critical for reliable energy supply.
Training Required: 1-2 years technical training plus on-the-job training and licensing. Physical Demands: Moderate – shift work including nights/weekends, high responsibility for public safety.
5. Aircraft Mechanic – $93,770
Washington has a long history in aviation, with Boeing and numerous regional airlines based in the state. Aircraft mechanics play a vital role in keeping planes safe and operational. The Seattle region serves as a major aerospace hub, continuing to offer excellent job security and competitive pay for trained mechanics.
Training Required: FAA-approved aviation maintenance program (18-24 months) plus licensing. Physical Demands: Moderate to High – working with heavy components, tight spaces, precision work under pressure.
6. Plumber – $91,340
Plumbers install and repair piping systems for homes, businesses, and industrial sites. With Washington’s growing population and ongoing construction boom, plumbers are consistently in high demand. New construction is spurring significant hiring, making this one of the most accessible high-paying trades with widely available apprenticeships.
7. Boilermaker – $86,700
Boilermakers construct and maintain boilers, tanks, and large vats used in energy and manufacturing industries. While the work is physically demanding and sometimes hazardous, the pay reflects the specialized expertise required. Washington’s utility and building projects continue to create strong opportunities for this trade.
8. Piledriver Operator – $83,790
Piledriver operators use heavy machinery to drive structural supports deep into the ground. Their specialized skills are critical for building bridges, piers, and foundations, particularly needed for marine and infrastructure projects along Washington’s extensive waterfront areas. It’s a niche trade that offers strong pay for those willing to specialize.
9. Industrial Mechanic – $76,940
Industrial mechanics maintain and repair machinery in factories, plants, and industrial facilities. This varied work environment keeps the job interesting while providing stable employment across Washington’s diverse manufacturing sector. These professionals work in varied settings from food processing to aerospace manufacturing.
10. HVAC Technician – $76,780
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) technicians keep homes, schools, and businesses comfortable year-round. In Washington, these professionals are increasingly important for managing indoor air quality and energy efficiency. Energy efficiency requirements are driving strong demand for skilled HVAC professionals.
Final Thoughts
These ten trades demonstrate the substantial earning potential of skilled labor in Washington State. While the figures shown represent upper-tier wages ranging from approximately $77,000 to over $123,000 per year, they illustrate that trade careers can offer excellent long-term financial prospects without requiring a traditional four-year degree.
Realistic Expectations:
- Starting salaries typically range from $35,000-$50,000 during apprenticeships
- Journeyman wages generally fall 20-40% below the figures shown here
- Top earnings require years of experience, specialization, or supervisory roles
- Location matters – Seattle/Bellevue area wages significantly exceed rural Washington
Getting Started: Most of these careers offer multiple pathways including apprenticeships (often paid), community college programs, and union training. Many employers provide benefits packages that can add 20-30% to the total compensation value.
The Bottom Line: While it may take 5-10 years to reach the salary levels shown, these trades offer clear career progression, job security, and the potential for excellent earnings – especially compared to many careers requiring expensive college degrees.
If you are ready to explore a trade career, research apprenticeship opportunities through unions, technical colleges, or direct employer programs. The demand is strong, the growth potential is real, and the future of trades in Washington State looks exceptionally bright.
Want more insights into trade careers? Visit LearnSkilledTrades.com for resources, guides, and updates on the future of skilled work.
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25 Most in Demand Skilled Trades in Washington State
About the Author
Lester Burkes is a workforce development professional dedicated to helping people discover sustainable, high-demand careers in the skilled trades. With years of experience designing and expanding training programs across automotive, construction, and technical fields, he focuses on bridging the gap between education and employment. Through LearnSkilledTrades.com, Lester provides straightforward, data-driven guidance to help students and career changers find practical pathways into trades that build America’s future.