You don’t need a university degree to earn a great wage in Australia. Many trade jobs can actually offer higher pay than roles in the corporate world, providing a stable and rewarding alternative. But what trade makes the most money? Let’s have a look at the highest paying trades you can get into.
What is a trade job?
In Australia, someone who works in trades like construction, carpentry, or mechanics is known as a tradesperson or a ‘tradie’. Tradies specialise in manual work that requires practical skills and hands-on experience. These jobs often involve physical tasks that require mastery of specific tools and techniques. As of August 2023, there are 1.9 million technicians and tradies in Australia — that’s heaps!
Why is pursuing a career in the trades a smart move?
Aside from escaping the classic 9-to-5 desk job, there are plenty of other benefits to pursuing a career in the trades.
Stability
Pursuing a trade career offers job stability because there is consistent demand for skilled tradies across Australia and ample opportunities to work in rural, urban, and metro areas. In Melbourne especially, with projects like the new underground train line and ongoing construction of new buildings, the city is bursting with jobs for tradies.
Flexibility
Being in the trades industry gives you a lifestyle filled with independence and flexibility. You often work project-based and choose to work the specific hours you prefer. If you work up towards being a sole trader, you can work exactly when you want on your own schedule. Many tradies love being on the go and the work-life balance that comes with this free-flowing lifestyle.
Hands-On
While many business-related jobs are being outsourced or automated by technology, trades require hands-on expertise that can’t be replaced. As a tradie, you’ll master valuable skills, enjoy opportunities for career growth, and even have the chance to run your own business. You won’t be stuck at a desk from 9 to 5 — instead, you’ll be on the move, using tools, directing other tradies, and getting things done. Plus, it’s incredibly rewarding to see the tangible results of your work and know you’re making a lasting impact on your community.
Is pay competitive in the trade industry?
Due to the current skills shortage in many industries like plumbing and construction, pay is quite competitive for tradies. The industry offers excellent earning potential because you get paid to gain practical experience as an apprentice ($58,500 annually) and then you can earn a pretty high wage right out of training (100k+ annually).
The more you learn, the more qualified you are, and the higher you can earn. Apprenticeships teach you a lot about your trade, but getting a specific license after trade school can also increase your pay.
What are the top 10 highest paying trades?
Wondering what the highest paid trades are? While you should choose the trade you’re most passionate about, it’s also important to have an idea of the salary you can expect in your trade of interest and how it compares to other trade jobs. If you’re looking for good trades to get into, below are 10 of the best trades in Australia for earning potential, how much they get per year, and what key skills are needed:
10. Renderer: up to $112k per year
Renderers need to have the software and computer skills to fulfil projects.
9. Trades Assistant: up to $113k per year
These assistants must be adaptable, have strong communication abilities, and know how to solve problems.
8. Bricklayer: up to $114k per year
Bricklayers need to have good hand-eye coordination and be able to lift heavy materials in various weather conditions.
7. Tiler: up to $118k per year
Tilers must understand how to examine plans and measure surfaces to make sure they lie everything correctly.
6. Concreter: up to $122k per year
These tradies must be good at a variety of skills - interpreting plans, pouring concrete, and driving a concrete mixer.
5. Electrician: up to $145k per year
As an electrician, you need patience and expert technical knowledge to know how to troubleshoot issues.
4. Crane Operator: up to $157k per year
Crane operators must understand how to clean and lubricate cranes as well as how to effectively communicate with their teams.
3. Builder: up to $158k per year
Builders must be ready to take on physically challenging tasks and have the right leadership skills to oversee projects.
2. Site Engineers: up to $184k per year
These engineers need skills to resolve technical issues, monitor construction progress, and ensure adherence to safet
1. Environmental Consultant: up to $187k per year
Environmental consultants regulate and reduce the detrimental impact of industrial, commercial, and government initiatives on the environment. They must be skilled in collecting and analysing data as well as writing scientific reports.
Start your journey in the trade Industry today
Now that you have a good understanding of the trade industry, the career opportunities it can offer, along with the best paying trades — it may just be your turn to step in and become a tradie yourself or even start your own trade business!
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