Best Construction Jobs in the United States

How do you know if you have the best construction jobs in the United States? The answer, of course, depends on what you’re looking for in your construction career. The construction industry offers many different types of jobs for men and women, as well as people of various ethnicities and experience levels.

The construction industry employs one of the largest segments of the American workforce, and it’s growing every year. But just because many people are employed in this field doesn’t mean they have the job they want. Many construction workers find that they aren’t using their education to its fullest potential in their current roles, or they aren’t as financially successful as they hoped to be.

Many people are surprised to learn just how large the construction industry is in the United States. Last year, roughly 7 million people were employed in construction-related jobs, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, totaling about 8 percent of all workers in the country! Although this number has remained relatively stable over time, construction jobs are still plentiful across the country and are a vital part of everyday life that many people don’t realize they’re using every day.

The construction industry is one of the few bright spots in the American economy. The industry is projected to add nearly 1 million jobs between 2016 and 2026, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. That's an increase of more than 13%. In fact, 10% of all new jobs created in that time period will be in the construction industry.

10 Best Construction Jobs in the US

Here are the best construction jobs in the United States of America according to a ranking by U.S.News. 

Construction Manager

A construction manager is responsible for overseeing and coordinating construction projects from start to finish. They work with architects, engineers, and other construction professionals to ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget. Construction managers typically have a bachelor's degree in engineering, architecture, or construction management. Construction Managers made a median salary of $97,180 in 2020. The best-paid 25 percent made $128,860 that year, while the lowest-paid 25 percent made $73,460.

Electricians

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, electricians are among the highest-paid construction jobs in the United States. They make a median salary of $52,910 per year, and the top 10% earn more than $86,880. Electricians know the ins and outs of designing lighting systems, installing street lights and intercom systems, ensuring electrical work is up to code, and repairing electrical wiring. They are responsible for installing and maintaining electrical systems in homes, businesses, and factories.

Moreover, electricians must go through at least four years of training as an apprentice, followed by the licensing their state requires. The job of an electrician is physically demanding and can be very dangerous if it's not done correctly. That's why a good training program is imperative. However, some choose to attend a technical school before entering their apprenticeship program, although this isn't required.

Solar Photovoltaic Installer

Solar photovoltaic (PV) installers assemble, install, and maintain solar PV systems on rooftops or other structures. Solar PV installers must follow blueprint instructions and local building codes. They typically use hand and power tools to secure solar panels and connect them to electric grids. Many solar PV installers have a high school diploma, although some jobs may require postsecondary education, and most workers receive on-the-job training. Solar Photovoltaic Installers made a median salary of $46,470 in 2020. The best-paid 25 percent made $55,760 that year, while the lowest-paid 25 percent made $37,860.

Plumber

As a plumber, you will be responsible for installing and repairing pipes and fixtures. You will need to be able to read blueprints and have experience with both residential and commercial plumbing. There is a lot of room for growth in this career, and plumbers are always in demand. Plumbers made a median salary of $56,330 in 2020. The best-paid 25 percent made $75,370 that year, while the lowest-paid 25 percent made $42,330. Becoming a plumber is a two-pronged process that includes practical training and study. An apprenticeship is the most common pathway to becoming a plumber.

Glazier

A glazier is someone who installs glass in windows, doors, and other structures. Glaziers must have a strong understanding of mathematics to properly cut and fit the glass. The job is physically demanding, as glaziers often have to lift heavy pieces of glass and stand for long periods of time. Although the job can be dangerous, it is also very rewarding. Glaziers get to work with their hands and see the results of their labor every day. Glaziers made a median salary of $46,080 in 2020. The best-paid 25 percent made $61,300 that year, while the lowest-paid 25 percent made $35,900.

Construction Worker

A construction worker is a tradesman, laborer, or professional employed in the physical construction of buildings, roads, bridges, tunnels, and other infrastructure projects. Construction workers may also be referred to as hard hat workers or carpenters. Construction workers typically work full-time hours on site.

Construction Workers made a median salary of $37,890 in 2020. The best-paid 25 percent made $50,330 that year, while the lowest-paid 25 percent made $30,690. Working as a general construction worker is an excellent introduction and gateway to other specialties within construction. There aren't formal education requirements to start out, and you'll receive ample on-the-job training.

Painter

A painter is responsible for painting the interior and exterior of buildings. They must be able to work safely and efficiently while meeting deadlines. A painter must have a high school diploma or equivalent, as well as experience in the field. The average salary for a painter is $33,000 per year.

Insulation Contractor

If you're looking for a career in construction that offers good pay and job security, insulation contracting is a great option. The demand for insulation contractors is expected to grow by nearly 20% over the next decade, so now is a great time to enter the field. Insulation Contractors made a median salary of $45,820 in 2020. The best-paid 25 percent made $60,190 that year, while the lowest-paid 25 percent made $35,690. Insulation contractors generally undergo a four- or five-year apprenticeship that includes up to 2,000 hours of on-the-job training and 144 hours of technical training, according to the BLS. Training covers everything from first aid to how to read and create blueprints.

Equipment Operator

Construction equipment operators use machinery to move construction materials, earth, and other heavy materials at construction sites. They operate cranes, excavators, and other equipment to move materials around. Equipment operators usually have a high school diploma or equivalent. Some jobs may require on-the-job training. Many equipment operators learn their trade through apprenticeship programs sponsored by unions or contractors. Equipment Operators made a median salary of $49,770 in 2020. The best-paid 25 percent made $65,640 that year, while the lowest-paid 25 percent made $39,150.

Carpenter

A Carpenter is a construction professional who works with construction crews to build, adjust and repair wood frameworks in various construction projects. They construct, repair, and install wooden building frameworks and structures from indoors to outdoors on many projects, including installing kitchen cabinets or building highways. Carpenters made a median salary of $49,520 in 2020. The best-paid 25 percent made $64,480 that year, while the lowest-paid 25 percent made $38,240. After earning a high school diploma or its equivalent, prospective carpenters should complete a three- to a four-year training program.

Sheet Metal Worker

Sheet metal workers fabricate, assemble, install and repair sheet metal products – from furnaces and ventilating systems to all sheet metal products used in the construction industry. Sheet Metal Workers made a median salary of $51,370 in 2020. The best-paid 25 percent made $67,380 that year, while the lowest-paid 25 percent made $37,980. 

Structural Iron and Steel Workers

These workers install metal beams, girders, and columns to help support buildings. They also connect prefabricated metal buildings and set up scaffolding. They work outdoors, often at great heights, so they must be comfortable with heights and have good balance. There is a lot of heavy lifting involved, so they must be physically strong. Because of the nature of the work, it is important that these workers have a good understanding of safety protocols. Structural Iron and Steelworkers made a median salary of $54,830 in 2020. The best-paid 25 percent made $73,800 that year, while the lowest-paid 25 percent made $40,990.

Final Thoughts

These are the best construction jobs in the US according to US News. Meanwhile, if you're looking to go for a career in the construction industry in the US, there are several resources you can use to make this happen. To begin with, for jobs that require training or an apprenticeship, you can often find programs in your area using Google. Search for jobs using the terms "apprentice" or "trainee" and the location where you want to work. Moreover, the U.S. Department of Labor maintains career resources that can help you start a career in many fields, including construction. Furthermore, Indeed.com is one of the best sites for finding job listings from many different sources. Search by keyword and location to find jobs that match your skills.