10 Best Trade Jobs For Women

Are you a woman looking to dive into trade jobs? The world of skilled labor has plenty of opportunities for you to explore. Whether you are interested in plumbing, carpentry, or electrical work, there is a trade job out there for you. You should be gender-neutral when it comes to trade jobs. Women can excel in any trade just like men.

Are you curious about which trade jobs for women are in demand? With a shortage of skilled workers, there is a high demand for trade workers across the USA. So, what are the best trade jobs for women? 

Well, the options are endless. From welding to HVAC technician, the choice is yours. If you are willing to learn the skills, you can pursue any trade job you are passionate about. It is all about finding the right fit for you.

For female professionals considering a venture into the trades, exploring specialized training programs designed for women can be a pivotal step. Discover more about these opportunities in our article on Trade Schools For Women.

If you are wondering why you should consider a career in the trades as a woman, keep reading. We will discuss the benefits of entering trade jobs. We will also see some of the top-paying trade jobs for women. So, keep reading this article to know which trade job is going to be the best fit for you. Let’s start by understanding what trade jobs are and how you can begin your journey in them.

What Is a Trade Job?

Trade jobs are specialized positions that typically require up to two years of training. You can pursue these jobs by completing programs at community colleges, vocational schools, or trade schools. 

Trade jobs often involve hands-on work. However, it does not necessarily involve heavy lifting all the time. It requires skills like fine motor control, which you will develop through training.

On the bright side, trade jobs are dynamic and active. It is best for women with lots of energy. The training is usually quicker and more affordable compared to earning a Bachelor’s degree at a traditional college.

However, one challenge you might face is being in the minority as a woman in a male-dominated field. While this should not stop you, it’s important to be aware of it. You must understand that some workplaces or colleagues may not be as inclusive as others which can be frustrating at times.

Why Should Women Pursue Trade Jobs?

Employers in skilled labor are facing a shortage of workers nationwide. The good news is you could help fill that gap. This shortage has led to millions of job vacancies across the country. It causes a decrease in production and revenue loss for employers.

One solution to this problem could be the introduction of more female workers in the workforce. Having women in skilled trades not only benefits the industry but also offers several advantages for women considering a career in this field.

Let’s look at five reasons why you should consider pursuing a trade job as a skilled worker.

1. High Salary

Money is an important factor to consider when choosing a job or career. In skilled labor, many trade jobs offer good pay. Despite this, there is still a gap in salary between men and women across the country. However, in many trade careers, this gap is smaller.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor Women’s Bureau, women typically earn around 81% of what men earn in all occupations. But in specific skilled trades, the situation is better:

• Female construction laborers earn 89% of what men earn.
• Female electricians earn 84.8% of what men earn.
• Female pipefitters, plumbers, and steamfitters earn 104% of what men earn, meaning they earn more than men in this profession.

If you are interested and want to learn more about the highest-paying trade jobs for females check out the article. 

2. Less Education

Finding well-paying trades is worth it for several reasons. One is that they demand less schooling and second is the time compared to a traditional four-year college degree.

Typically, earning a college degree takes about four years. It can cost you nearly $100,000 in tuition and other expenses. On the flip side, mastering a trade often requires just two years, sometimes even less schooling along with an apprenticeship.

Also, most apprenticeship and on-site training programs offer a salary. This means you can finish your training and start earning money much sooner than if you pursued a four-year college degree.

3. Job Security

Working in the trades provides you with a lot of job security. Over the next decade, many trade jobs are expected to grow, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

For example, opportunities in construction labor and machining are projected to increase by 7% by 2030. This steady growth means that there will be a constant need for skilled workers.

Also, as technology continues to advance, there is a growing demand for skilled laborers. The demand for people who can install, repair, and maintain various machines and equipment. This means that even with the rise of technology and automation, skilled labor jobs won’t decrease.

4. Compelling Job Opportunities

Do you enjoy using your hands and staying active? Are you excited about learning new skills or working in different places? Are you looking for a job that doesn’t tie you to an office?

Skilled workers usually engage in physically dynamic environments. Instead of sitting at a desk, they are often on their feet, actively using their hands. The top trade jobs for women bring exciting opportunities beyond the usual workplace.

There is a diverse range of interesting trade jobs, each demanding unique skills. Whether you prefer technical fields or more general roles, the trade jobs for women offer abundant options. Some employers even provide opportunities to travel to new locations and work environments.

5. Growth Prospect

If you are someone who seeks career growth with more responsibility and better pay, trade jobs can offer that. As you become more experienced in your trade, you will find openings for supervisor and management roles.

You might have to get extra certification or pass exams. However, most trade jobs have the potential for advancement beyond the basic positions. Now that you understand the benefits of pursuing a career in the trades, let’s see some of the high-paying trade jobs for women.

List of Top 10 Trade Jobs For Women

Here are some of the best trade jobs for women:  

1. Plumber 

Plumbing is a great trade job for women to consider. It pays well, with an average salary of around $68,220 per year. There are various areas where you can work, such as residential and commercial construction, home maintenance, and manufacturing. 

To become a plumber, you can either go to a trade school or start as an apprentice. It is up to you to choose the option that suits you best.

• Salary per annum: $41,300 – $97,120 (median: $68,220)
• Degree required: Associate’s degree in plumbing or equivalent training
• Who is hiring: Plumbing companies, construction companies, government agencies
• Best way to get the job: Complete an apprenticeship program, become licensed, build your network with potential employers

2. Electrician 

Becoming an electrician is a job where you install, maintain, and fix electrical systems. You might work on wiring or lighting in houses, or you could even join a utility company.

You can start your electrician journey in two ways. You can go to trade school, or you can become an apprentice. Either way, you are looking at a career that pays around $56,900 per year.

• Salary per annum: $40,920 – $80,200 (median: $56,900)
• Degree required: Associate’s degree in electrical technology or equivalent training
• Who is hiring: Electrical contractors, construction companies, utilities, government agencies
• Best way to get the job: Complete an apprenticeship program, become licensed, network with potential employers

2. Welder 

If you want a flexible job, being a welder is a great option for you. Your welding skills are needed in many different industries, like manufacturing and construction. You might even choose to work on freelance projects instead of full-time.

To become a welder, you usually need some specialized training, like completing a program at a trade school. But it pays off, welders usually earn around $44,190 per year, so the training is worth it.

• Salary per annum: $26,720 – $80,430 (median: $44,190)
• Degree required: Varies, but welding certifications are highly valued
• Who is hiring: Manufacturing companies, construction companies, shipbuilding companies, oil and gas industry
• Best way to get the job: Get certified in different welding processes, gain experience through an apprenticeship or training program, network with potential employers

4. Carpenter 

If you become a carpenter, you will have an important job in constructing new buildings. You will use wood and other materials to build or renovate homes, businesses, and other structures. You can specialize in specific tasks like framing or finishing, or keep your skills versatile to find more job options.

To start your career as a carpenter, you can attend a trade school, join an apprenticeship, or learn on the job. With experience, you can earn around $49,520 per year.

• Salary per annum: $25,420 – $85,230 (median: $49,520)
• Degree required: Not required, but an associate’s degree in carpentry is helpful
• Who is hiring: Construction companies, carpentry contractors, cabinetmakers, self-employment
• Best way to get the job: Gain experience through an apprenticeship program, volunteer at Habitat for Humanity or similar organizations, network with carpenters in your area

5. Dental Hygienist 

If you are thinking about trades suitable for women, a dental hygienist is a great choice. It pays well, around $77,090 per year. It often comes with flexible work hours and good benefits.

To become a dental hygienist, you will need to attend a trade school program and obtain your license. Typically, this takes two years or less. So you can start earning a high salary without needing a four-year degree.

• Salary per annum: $38,640 – $82,120 (median: $77,090)
• Degree required: Associate’s degree in dental hygiene
• Who is hiring: Dental offices, public health clinics, hospitals, private practices
• Best way to get the job: Earn your degree, get licensed, gain experience through an internship or assistantship, and network with dentists in your area

6. Chef

If you love food, becoming a chef might be a great choice for you. You get to create delicious dishes, which can be rewarding. It is also a chance for you to show off your creativity, making the job even more fulfilling.

While you don’t necessarily need formal training to become a chef, attending a culinary arts program at a trade school can give you an advantage. You will learn various cooking and presentation skills, building a solid base. Also, it could help you reach a salary of around $53,380 per year sooner.

• Salary per annum: $25,120 – $100,430 (median: $53,380)
• Degree required: Not required, but a culinary school degree or certificate can be helpful
• Who is hiring: Restaurants, hotels, catering companies, cruise lines, self

7. Wind Turbine Technician

These days, more and more people are leaning towards eco-friendly energy sources. This trend is boosting the wind power sector. It means there is a rising demand for skilled wind turbine technicians.

As a wind turbine technician, you could make roughly $56,230 per year by handling tasks like maintenance, installation, and repair of wind turbines. Apart from being okay with heights, you will need to finish up a trade school program to start your career. That way, you will have the necessary skills to start the job right away.

• Salary per annum: $44,230 – $90,140 (median: $56,230)
• Degree required: Associate’s degree in industrial technology or related field
• Who is hiring: Wind turbine manufacturing companies, energy companies, wind farm operators
• Best way to get the job: Earn relevant certifications, gain experience through internships or entry-level positions in renewable energy, network with industry professionals

8. HVAC Technician

As an HVAC technician, your job involves installing and fixing heating, ventilation, cooling, and refrigeration systems. You can find work in various places, from big buildings to individual homes, and even with system manufacturers.

To start your career as an HVAC technician, you usually start by finishing a trade school program. Once you have completed that, you are well on your way to earning around $50,590 per year.

• Salary per annum: $31,540 – $.67,230 (median: $50,590)
• Degree required: Associate’s degree in HVAC technology or equivalent training
• Who is hiring: HVAC companies, construction companies, building management companies
• Best way to get the job: Complete an apprenticeship program or HVAC training program, get certified, gain experience through internships or entry-level positions

9. Esthetician

Estheticians specialize in skincare. They often offer services like facials, peels, waxing, and body wraps to enhance appearance.

To start your career as an esthetician, you will need to get licensed. It typically involves completing an approved program at a community college or trade school. The requirements might vary by state, so it’s essential to research the specific rules in your area.

Once you are licensed, you can start earning around $36,510 per year in this profession.

• Salary per annum: $26,250 – $70,120 (median: $36,510)
• Degree required: Varies by state, but typically a certificate or diploma from a cosmetology school
• Who is hiring: Salons, spas, medical offices, retail stores
• Best way to get the job: Get licensed, build your portfolio with freelance work, network with industry professionals

10. Automotive Service Technician

If you are good with mechanics, becoming an automotive service technician could be a great choice for you. You will spend your time fixing and maintaining vehicles, doing things like oil changes and tire balancing.

You can expect to earn around $66,760 a year in this field, and you might even get discounts on vehicle maintenance services as a bonus.

• Salary per annum: $41,100 – $94,300 (median: $66,760)
• Degree required: Associate’s degree in automotive technology or equivalent training
• Who is hiring: Auto dealerships, independent repair shops, automotive manufacturers
• Best way to get the job: Complete an accredited training program, earn industry certifications, gain hands-on experience through apprenticeships or internships

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

When it comes to choosing a trade job, don’t limit yourself to what is on this list. Follow your passion and pursue the career path that excites you the most. While some trades may be male-dominated, it is not a reason to avoid them. 

Instead, look for companies that value diversity and involvement of women in their workplace. You can research company policies and employee reviews to find an employer who will appreciate your skills and talents.

Remember, you can excel in any field as long as you are willing to learn and work hard. The best trade jobs for women is the one that keeps you motivated and passionate. If you find a job that fits that description, then you are already on the right track.