Skilled Trades Salary Directory
Data updated · Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025 · Methodology
Empirical compensation, licensing progression, and hourly wage distributions across certified construction, mechanical, and industrial trades.
Comparative Wage Percentiles & Hourly Breakdown
Official BLS OEWS distribution across entry (10th), junior (25th), median (50th), and senior/master (90th) tiers.
| Occupation & Code | Entry (10th %) | National Median (50th %) | Top Tier (90th %) | Median Hourly | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Electrical Power-Line Installer
SOC 49-9051 · Skilled Trades
|
$51,470 | $95,320 | $128,690 | $45.83/hr | Profile |
|
Building Automation Specialist
SOC 17-3023 · Skilled Trades
|
$49,510 | $78,190 | $115,700 | $37.59/hr | Profile |
|
Electrical Inspector
SOC 47-4011 · Skilled Trades
|
$47,140 | $74,690 | $114,200 | $35.91/hr | Profile |
|
Plumber & Pipefitter
SOC 47-2152 · Skilled Trades
|
$44,150 | $63,800 | $108,420 | $30.67/hr | Profile |
|
Electrician
SOC 47-2111 · Skilled Trades
|
$42,640 | $63,190 | $108,510 | $30.38/hr | Profile |
|
HVAC/R Technician
SOC 49-9021 · Skilled Trades
|
$40,050 | $61,010 | $95,210 | $29.33/hr | Profile |
|
Welder
SOC 51-4121 · Skilled Trades
|
$39,240 | $53,750 | $77,530 | $25.84/hr | Profile |
High-Yield Metro Markets & Cost of Living Overview
Explore how local BLS wages and HUD Fair Market Rent impact take-home yield for this sector.
Industry Labor Economics & Frequently Asked Questions
2026 BLS OEWS wage benchmarks for Skilled Trades careers: national median pay, 10th to 90th percentile distributions and the top paying metropolitan markets. Official 2026 economic data for Skilled Trades compiled from Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS surveys, HUD Fair Market Rents, and statutory tax codes.