7. Boilermaker – $59,227 USD
Boilermakers manufacture, install, and maintain boilers, large tanks, and other containers that hold liquids and gases, crucial for industries like oil, power generation, and manufacturing. Their work demands reading blueprints, casting parts, welding, testing, and performing ongoing maintenance to meet efficiency and environmental standards. Entry into the trade typically requires a high school diploma and completion of an apprenticeship program lasting around four years, including both classroom learning and thousands of hours of hands-on experience. Boilermakers must demonstrate mechanical skill, spatial reasoning, and the ability to work in challenging and sometimes hazardous conditions. The trade offers substantial financial rewards, reflecting the specialized expertise and essential nature of the work.