Residential Construction Offers High Paying Career Paths

Careers in residential construction are rewarding professionally and financially. Skilled trades such as carpentry or plumbing do not require a fouryear degree. In addition, many skills tradespeople do not have to wait to complete training to start earning income. Apprentice opportunities in the skilled trades allow students to earn a degree while they learn. Once training is complete, skilled trades professionals have strong earning potential.

According to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and a National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) analysis, half of the payroll workers in construction earn more than $54,540 and the top 25% make at least $77,030. The BLS publishes wages for more than 400 occupations in construction. Here is a closer look at the median salaries among the highest-paid wages in construction based on the most recent data available (2022).

Plumbers

The median wage for plumbers was $60,070 in 2022. Plumbers install, repair, and maintain pipes in residential, commercial and/or industrial buildings. In general, plumbers are excellent listeners and problem-solvers. As long as there are complex water systems in and outside of homes, there will be a need for reliable plumbers.

Electricians

Qualified electricians are always in demand. The median wage for electricians was $59,300. Electricians have excellent analytical skills, adept at diagnosing problems and work with a variety of tools and technology.

Brick masons

Laying brick is one of the oldest and most respected trades in the construction industry. Masonry construction uses brick, stone, marble, granite, travertine, limestone, concrete block, glass block, stucco, and tile. The median wage for brick masons is $59,130 annually.

Carpenters

Carpenters are needed in all construction areas and are often employed throughout the entire construction process. Thus, it is one of the most secure jobs in the industry. The best carpenters are critical thinkers who are detail oriented. Skilled carpenters earn $52,400 annually.

First-Line Supervisors

Seasoned tradespeople have the opportunity to manage people and projects. First-line supervisors play a key role in making sure projects are completed on time and budget. The median wage for an employee in this role is $74,330.

The Greater San Antonio Builders Association (GSABA) has Student Chapters at St. Philip’s College and the University of Texas at San Antonio. If you are interested in the one-, two- and four-year programs, please call Theran Smallwood at the GSABA office and she can share contact information at both colleges.

For more information on skilled trade training programs, apprenticeships, and career opportunities visit www. sabuilders.com or www.nahb.org .

By Shad Schmid 2023 President, GSABA