If you’re looking to start or switch to a career in construction, you’ve probably wondered about earning potential. Beyond the satisfaction of building something tangible—whether it’s shaping skylines, improving infrastructure, or keeping projects on track—many construction positions pay well and offer strong career growth.
Our team at SmartPM put together a list of the top-paying construction jobs, breaking down salaries, job descriptions, and industry outlook. Whether you’re in the field, managing projects, or working behind the scenes, these high-paying roles show just how rewarding a career path in construction can be.
Why Should You Consider a Career in the Construction Industry?
The construction industry offers strong job security, competitive pay, and clear paths for career growth. Whether you’re starting fresh or making a career change, construction provides opportunities to learn valuable skills, work on meaningful projects, and earn a solid living—often without needing a college degree. Many roles offer paid job training, and skilled trades can lead to six-figure salaries with experience.
Here are some more key benefits of the top-paying construction jobs:
- Job security
- High earning potential
- Paid job training
- Growth opportunities
- Varied work environments
- Strong benefits (especially in unions)
- A built-in industry network
- Work-life balance with early shifts
While construction can be demanding, for those who like hands-on work and problem-solving, it’s a stable and rewarding career with long-term financial potential.
How Much Does the Average Construction Career Pay?
The average pay for construction careers varies depending on the specific role, experience, and location. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) May 2023 report, Helpers in Construction Trades (All Other) earn an average hourly wage of $20.71, translating to an annual mean wage of $43,090. Wages in this field range widely, with the 10th percentile earning around $30,670 annually and the 90th percentile making up to $57,660 per year.
In contrast, when looking at the broader category of Construction and Extraction occupations, which includes a wide range of skilled trades, the median annual wage was $55,680 in May 2023—higher than the overall median wage for all occupations of $48,060. Furthermore, this industry is projected to grow faster than the average from 2023 to 2033, with approximately 663,500 job openings per year due to both new employment opportunities and workforce replacement.
What are the Top Paying States for Construction Jobs?
Many construction companies operating in states like the District of Columbia, New York, Washington, Hawaii, and California offer higher average wages—often due to the cost of living, strong union presence, or high construction volume demand. For instance:
- District of Columbia – $72,000/year
- New York – $58,280/year
- Washington – $56,330/year
- Hawaii – $51,180/year
- California – $48,560/year
https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes473019.htm
What Are the Highest-Paying Construction Jobs?
Certain roles stand out among high-paying construction jobs, providing a mix of specialized skill demands and advanced education or certification requirements. Below is a closer look at 15 of the top paying construction jobs.
1. Construction Manager
Overview: Construction managers handle planning, budgeting, and supervising all phases of a build. Responsibilities include overseeing construction workers, coordinating with subcontractors, and ensuring budgets remain on track.
Education/Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in a related field (e.g., construction management, engineering) is often preferred. Many professionals spend time at the field office rather than a single main office.
Salary: As of 2025, the average annual pay ranges around $131,000–$139,484. Some earn beyond $150,000, depending on the complexity of projects and years of experience.
2. Civil Engineer
Overview: Civil engineers design and supervise major infrastructure projects, from roads and bridges to water treatment systems. This role often involves advanced math, physics, and knowledge of building codes.
Education/Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in civil engineering (and sometimes a master’s degree) is common. Licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE) may require passing relevant exams and gaining several years of hands-on experience.
Salary: Average annual pay is about $82,674, though the median wage reached $95,890 in May 2023. Top earners exceed $150,000 with additional certifications or administrative roles.
3. Ironworker
Overview: Ironworkers install structural and reinforcing steel for new buildings, bridges, and roads. The work requires physical stamina and comfort working at heights.
Education/Requirements: A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Apprenticeships offer structured job training in blueprint reading, welding, and more.
Salary: Median wages range from $54,850 (reinforcing iron) to $62,760 (structural steel) as of May 2023. Skilled ironworkers in major cities can earn significantly higher pay.
4. Electrician
Overview: Electricians tackle electrical systems, wiring, and fixture installations. This is one of the construction jobs that pay well due to specialized safety knowledge and technical skills.
Education/Requirements: An apprenticeship or trade program is common, alongside passing licensing exams to comply with local building codes.
Salary: The median annual wage for electricians was $61,590 in May 2023, with top earners surpassing $80,000 depending on union affiliation and region.
5. Architect
Overview: Architects plan and design everything from office buildings to multi-structure complexes. A combination of creativity, technical knowledge, and compliance with zoning laws is crucial.
Education/Requirements: Typically requires a Bachelor of Architecture and a license, obtained after an internship and the Architect Registration Examination.
Salary: The average national salary is around $109,482 in March 2025, positioning architects among the best-paying construction jobs for those who want to shape the built environment.
6. Elevator and Escalator Installer
Overview: These specialists handle the installation and repair of elevators, escalators, and moving walkways. Conditions can be cramped or at great heights, requiring mechanical expertise.
Education/Requirements: A high school diploma plus a multi-year apprenticeship are typical. Most states require licensing due to the safety-critical nature of the job.
Salary: The median wage was $102,420 in May 2023, and union workers can average over $105,000. In some regions, annual earnings exceed $165,000.
7. Plumber and Pipefitter
Overview: Professionals in these trades install and repair piping systems that transport liquids or gases. A trade school background helps, though most learn via apprenticeship.
Education/Requirements: In addition to on-the-job training, certain states require a plumbing license.
Salary: Pay averages $67,840, but top earners surpass $100,000 in regions with high demand.
8. Construction Equipment Operator
Overview: Operators control heavy equipment like bulldozers, excavators, and cranes. Projects range from small-scale home builds to massive civil undertakings.
Education/Requirements: Many learn on the job or through apprenticeships. Mastering safety protocols is vital, especially around heavy machinery.
Salary: As of March 2025, the average annual salary for a Heavy Equipment Operator I is around $48,557, with the top range at $64,000+.
9. Brick Mason
Overview: Brickmasons lay and bind materials (brick, concrete, terra-cotta) for walls, arches, and other structures. Accuracy and thoroughness are crucial to ensure structural integrity.
Education/Requirements: Typically learned through apprenticeships. Skill in blueprint reading and math fosters efficiency.
Salary: Average wage is approximately $62,380 per year, with top earners nearing $93,290.
10. HVAC Installer
Overview: HVAC installers set up heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in homes and businesses. Technicians often travel between multiple job sites.
Education/Requirements: A mix of apprenticeship or trade school plus certifications (like EPA Section 608) for refrigerant handling.
Salary: The median wage is $57,300, with experienced installers topping $72,000 in certain regions.
11. Boilermaker
Overview: Boilermakers build and repair large containers—such as boilers and vats used in industrial settings. Physical stamina and travel flexibility can be essential.
Education/Requirements: An apprenticeship path is standard, though demand for this role has slightly declined.
Salary: The average yearly salary sits around $69,679, with top professionals clearing six figures.
12. Carpenter Foreman
Overview: A Carpenter Foreman supervises other carpenters and oversees tasks like wood framing, finishing, and millwork. Responsibility includes ensuring safety standards and interpreting blueprints.
Education/Requirements: Leadership and communication skills plus extensive carpentry background. Many start as carpenters before moving into management.
Salary: Average hourly pay hovers around $30.14, translating to $60,000+ annually depending on region and union coverage.
13. Construction Cost Estimator
Overview: A Cost Estimator calculates budgets, timelines, and material needs, making this a high-level analytical position among high-paying construction jobs.
Education/Requirements: Often, a bachelor’s in business, finance, or construction. Strong math and software proficiency are crucial.
Salary: The average annual pay is $88,513, with top earners exceeding $130,000.
14. Construction Inspector
Overview: Also known as a building inspector, this professional ensures projects meet building codes and safety regulations. Inspectors often travel from site to site.
Education/Requirements: A background in engineering or construction is helpful, plus knowledge of local codes.
Salary: Though it varies widely by municipality, many inspectors earn above the national average for construction workers due to specialization. The median annual wage in 2023 was $67,700.
15. Land Surveyor
Overview: Land Surveyors measure and map property boundaries, collaborating with engineers and architects to ensure accurate planning. Their work informs real estate and infrastructure decisions.
Education/Requirements: Typically requires a bachelor’s in surveying or a related field, plus passing licensing exams.
Salary: Compensation depends on location and demand, but skilled surveyors can surpass $65,000 annually and grow into higher roles with experience.
Utilizing SmartPM’s Project Management Solutions in Your New Career
No matter your role—whether you’re an electrician, site inspector, or project manager—having access to reliable project data is crucial. SmartPM helps construction professionals manage project performance, schedules, and reporting with automated project controls.
By providing real-time insights, SmartPM allows teams to make informed decisions at every phase of a project. Whether it’s tracking project health, monitoring performance and progress, standardizing reporting, or maintaining visibility across schedules, SmartPM enhances efficiency and reduces construction delays.
From construction managers overseeing large builds to foremen handling daily site operations, SmartPM ensures everyone has the tools they need to stay aligned and proactive.
Manage Construction Project Performance with SmartPM
A career in construction offers long-term growth, competitive salaries, and diverse opportunities. As projects become more complex, having a clear, data-driven approach to scheduling and performance tracking is essential.
SmartPM helps teams navigate project challenges, optimize schedules, and ensure work stays on course. If you’re stepping into a construction career—or looking to improve project outcomes—learn more about SmartPM and how it can support your success.
Contact SmartPM to explore solutions that bring clarity and efficiency to construction project management.
