When people think of blue collar jobs, they often imagine manual labor in factories, construction sites, or other similar industries. While these jobs fall under the blue collar umbrella, there are plenty of trade jobs that range in training and complexity. Read on to explore the most in-demand blue collar jobs today.
Electrician
Electricians are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. They also read blueprints and technical diagrams to determine the location of electrical equipment and troubleshoot any electrical problems. Electricians need to be familiar with electrical codes and safety regulations. The average salary for electricians is around $56,900 per year.
Plumber
Plumbers are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing pipes and fixtures in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. They also diagnose and troubleshoot any plumbing problems and ensure that all plumbing systems are up to code. Plumbers need to be skilled in reading blueprints and technical diagrams. The average salary for plumbers is around $55,160 per year.
Similar job titles: Pipefitter, Steamfitter, Sprinkler Fitter, Drainlayer
Carpenter
Carpenters are responsible for building, installing, and repairing structures made of wood, such as houses, buildings, furniture, and cabinetry. They read blueprints and technical diagrams to determine the materials needed and the specifications of the project. Carpenters need to be skilled in using hand and power tools, and they must be able to work accurately and efficiently. The average salary for carpenters is around $49,520 per year.
Similar job titles: Cabinetmaker, Woodworker, Joiner, Framer
Welder
Welders are responsible for joining metal parts together by heating them to a molten state and then cooling them to form a strong bond. They use hand and power tools, as well as specialized welding equipment, to perform their job. Welders need to be skilled in reading blueprints and technical diagrams, and they must be familiar with welding codes and safety regulations. The average salary for welders is around $45,190 per year.
Similar job titles: Boilermaker, Metal Fabricator, Sheet Metal Worker, Ironworker
HVAC Technician
HVAC technicians are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. They also diagnose and troubleshoot any HVAC problems and ensure that all HVAC systems are up to code. HVAC technicians need to be skilled in reading blueprints and technical diagrams. The average salary for HVAC technicians is around $50,590 per year.
Mechanic
Mechanics are responsible for repairing and maintaining vehicles, such as cars, trucks, and motorcycles. They diagnose problems, perform routine maintenance, and make repairs using hand and power tools. Mechanics need to be skilled in reading technical manuals and using computer diagnostic equipment. The average salary for mechanics is around $44,050 per year.
Similar job titles: Automotive Technician, Diesel Mechanic, Motorcycle Mechanic, Aircraft Mechanic
Bricklayer
Bricklayers are responsible for laying bricks and other types of masonry materials to construct walls, buildings, and other structures. They read blueprints and technical diagrams to determine the layout of the project and the materials needed. Bricklayers need to be skilled in using hand, power tools, and working outside in inclement weather. The average salary for bricklayers is around $41,774 per year.
