8 Highest-Paying Construction Jobs

Construction jobs typically utilize various skills on different types of worksites—large or small—to create and build things such as bridges and roads, office buildings, or residential homes. You can choose to be part of a team that oversees different aspects of a project, or you may opt to specialize in a specific trade or field.

The market is strong, with 8.245 million construction jobs in the United States and an average hourly earning of $38.72 for all positions as of October 2024, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) [1]. The industry continues to grow with a steady increase in employment since the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020 [2].

Below, explore eight of the highest-paying construction jobs, including the responsibilities of each job, what you can expect to earn, and the education you’ll need to be successful. 

What are the highest-paying construction jobs? 

Some of the highest-paying roles in the construction industry involve leadership positions. If you’re interested in construction, you can work as a general contractor or construction laborer and move up to a site manager position. You can also focus on a specific task to become an expert in, such as electricians, plumbers, or other specialized trades. Construction work also may not need a college degree. You can find a trade school, technical school, or apprenticeship to learn a particular craft if you don’t want to attend a college or university.

*All annual salary data and job outlook information is sourced from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) as of November 2024.

1. Construction manager

Median annual salary: $104,900

Job outlook (projected growth from 2022 to 2032): 9 percent

Requirements: A bachelor’s degree is common; you may also need state-issued licensure

A construction manager oversees a project from start to finish. You may be responsible for planning the project, managing a budget, or supervising on-site day-to-day operations. You might work with subcontractors for different pieces of the project or talk to inspectors to ensure your project is up to code and follows the proper regulations. You may work in an office but also spend time on worksites, keeping the project on target.

A construction manager usually needs a bachelor’s degree in a construction-related field, such as construction, business, or engineering. However, an associate degree in construction management or technology may also be an option, particularly if you work on smaller projects. Depending on your state’s regulations, you might need to get licensed in construction management. It could also be helpful to consider certification as a Certified Construction Manager (CCM) from the Construction Management Association of America or an Associate Constructor (AC) and Certified Professional Constructor (CPC) with the American Institute of Constructors.

2. Civil engineer

Median annual salary: $95,890

Job outlook (projected growth from 2022 to 2032): 6 percent

Requirements: A bachelor’s degree; professional engineering license optional

Civil engineers are responsible for designing, building, constructing, and maintaining infrastructure projects. You may analyze survey reports, maps, and other data about a construction site or work with local, state, and federal agencies to get permits for a particular project. Civil engineers also may review construction materials for new projects or the maintenance and repair of existing infrastructure, buildings, or other types of job sites.

Employers often require a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a related field, such as construction, for this specialized position. You may need to be proficient in math, statistics, engineering mechanics, or another specialized topic relevant to your particular area. A professional engineering license isn’t required but may be helpful as you pursue a career in the field. However, you’ll want to check on the specifics of a PE license based on your state. The American Society of Civil Engineers can also award you certification in specific fields depending on where you want to take your career.

3. Ironworker

Median annual salary: $60,780

Job outlook (projected growth from 2022 to 2032): 4 percent

Requirements: High school diploma plus training

Ironworkers assemble the structural and reinforcing iron and steel to support buildings, roads, and other significant projects. You may be responsible for reading blueprints and other instructions, installing metal decking for buildings, and working with equipment like rod-bending machines or welding equipment. You can specialize in structural erector work or reinforcing and rebar construction.

Ironworkers need a high school diploma and an apprenticeship or other vocational training. Apprenticeship training may include learning to lay rebar, construct metal framework, or use equipment and other required tools to complete the work. Licensing and certification aren’t requirements for ironworkers but may be helpful if you decide to work in a specialized area such as crane operation or welding.

4. Electrician

Median annual salary: $61,590

Job outlook (projected growth from 2022 to 2032): 11 percent

Requirements: High school diploma plus training; you may need a state-issued license

Electricians work on job sites to install and maintain electrical power and wiring for communications, lighting, and other control systems. You should have experience reading and understanding blueprints, inspecting electrical components, and identifying electrical issues. You must also maintain up-to-date knowledge of electrical codes based on local or state regulations.

Electricians only need a high school diploma and technical training in circuitry, safety, and electrical basics. You also may have to complete an apprenticeship program that allows you to get on-the-job training to better understand day-to-day work as an electrician. You may have to be licensed by your state to be an electrician. Because requirements can differ from state to state, you should check with your state about the requirements you must meet. You also may want certifications depending on any specializations you undertake as an electrician.

5. Architect

Median annual salary: $93,310

Job outlook (projected growth from 2022 to 2032): 8 percent

Requirement: Bachelor’s degree or higher plus state-issued licensure

Architects play a unique role in the construction process, creating the plans and designs builders and other workers use to construct homes and other buildings. In this role, you could design single rooms, entire buildings, or building complexes. Meeting with clients to discuss design requirements and project objectives, drafting scaled renderings using computer software, and preparing contracts and other documents are a few of the tasks you can expect. As an architect, you will also oversee the construction process to ensure the project remains on track according to all plans and regulations.

Architects need a minimum bachelor’s degree in architecture, with many opting for a master’s. You’ll also need years of experience in a paid internship before you can take the Architect Registration Exam required to get your license. All states require licensure before you can work as an architect in the US. Depending on your state's licensing rules, you may also have to complete ongoing continuing education.

6. Elevator and escalator installer

Median annual salary: $102,420

Job outlook (projected growth from 2022 to 2032): 6 percent

Requirements: High school diploma plus training; some states require licensure

Specialized positions can make your work experience in demand and bump up the income you can be paid. Such is the case for elevator and escalator installers, who handle elevators and escalators on projects of all sizes. You may install an elevator or escalator at a construction site, including assembling the components and installing wiring necessary for operation. You also will have to test the equipment to ensure it operates properly and troubleshoot any issues you can find during the process.

Elevator and escalator installers need a high school diploma or equivalent degree, and classes such as math, physics, or mechanical drawing are helpful. You’ll also need to enroll in an apprenticeship program where you’ll learn about escalator and elevator parts, electrical theory, and safety. Your state may require a license to work on escalators and elevators, but requirements could vary. It could also be helpful to consider getting credentials, such as a Certified Elevator Technician (CET) or Certified Accessibility and Private Residence Lift Technician (CAT) certification through the National Association of Elevator Contractors. You can also obtain a Qualified Elevator Inspector (QEI) certification with the National Association of Elevator Safety Authorities International.

7. Plumber and pipefitter

Median annual salary: $61,550

Job outlook (projected growth from 2022 to 2032): 6 percent

Requirements: High school diploma plus training; some states require licensure

Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters are responsible for installing piping fixtures and systems. You’re responsible for the piping systems on construction sites that carry water, gas, or other fluids throughout a building or infrastructure site. You may have to install piping following state and local building codes or inspect and troubleshoot systems installed on a job site.

A plumber typically needs a high school diploma, additional vocational training, and apprenticeship experience. Sometimes, you may need to take courses on pipe-system design, tool use, and welding. An apprenticeship program can give you a particular number of hours on the job that you must complete before getting licensed in your state. Because each state may have unique licensing requirements, it’s best to check with local laws to determine how to qualify. Your state’s licensing board may also have specific specialized requirements if you work on gas lines.

8. Construction equipment operator

Median annual salary (BLS): $55,270

Job outlook (projected growth from 2022 to 2032): 4 percent

Requirements: High school diploma and training; may require commercial driver’s license

Construction equipment operators work with heavy machinery on construction sites, including pile drivers, paving equipment, bulldozers, forklifts, and boom lifts. You may operate the equipment on site, including driving, maneuvering, and controlling the equipment. You could also maintain or repair heavy equipment.

Construction equipment operators usually need a high school diploma before starting a career. Vocational schools can be an excellent addition to your experience, particularly if you want to learn a specialty, such as maintenance and repair, or how to operate a specific type of equipment. You may also be able to take on an apprenticeship program to hone experience and skills in your particular field. You will not likely need a specific certification to operate equipment, but having a commercial driver’s license (CDL) is helpful. Check with your state to determine local CDL requirements.

Get started in construction with Coursera

Construction jobs cover a variety of skills that you can use while working on job sites in residential areas, businesses, or other types of construction while also getting paid well, depending on the position.

Pick up the skills you may need for good-paying construction jobs by taking courses or completing specializations on Coursera. You can learn essential skills that can help you add to your resume and land that construction job you’ve wanted as a general contractor or in a specific field. For example, consider the Construction Management Specialization from Columbia University to learn project planning and the basics of construction management.