Construction may not seem like the most high-paying industry at first glance, but as it turns out, many of the jobs come with six-figure salaries, leadership perks, and require specialized skills that command top dollar. From elevator installers making over $90K a year to project executives and chief construction officers pulling in well over $130K, the right role can lead to serious earning power. Whether you’re just starting out or eyeing your next move up the ladder, in this article we’re going to break down the highest-paid jobs in construction and which states pay the highest so you can choose wisely.
15 of the highest-paid jobs in construction
15. Sheet Metal Worker
- Average salary: $62,340
- Average hourly pay: $29.97
Sheet metal workers cut, shape, and install thin metal sheets used in everything from roofing to ductwork and building facades. It’s hands-on work that demands accuracy, problem-solving, and a good comfort level with heights and tight spots. If you’ve got an eye for detail and don’t mind working with your hands (and your head), this trade can really pay off.
14. Electrician
- Average salary: $65,280
- Average hourly pay: $31.38
Electricians install and repair wiring in homes, buildings, and industrial sites, making sure everything runs properly. Whether it’s reading blueprints, wiring a new build, or tracking down the cause of a power outage, no two days are the same. Most regions require a license which is fairly easy to get as there are several electrician apprenticeships available across the United States.
13. Boilermaker
- Average salary: $70,320
- Average hourly pay: $33.81
Boilermakers work with serious pressure makes this high stakes career one of the highest-paid jobs in construction. They build and repair big tanks, boilers, and sealed containers used to hold hot liquids or gases in places like power plants, factories, and refineries. It’s tough, physical work that often means long hours and travel to remote job sites. But for those who don’t mind getting their hands dirty, the paycheck makes it worth it.
12. Elevator Installer and Repairer
- Average salary: $91,230
- Average hourly pay: $43.86
If you’re good with machines and don’t mind tight spaces, elevator installation might just lift your career. These pros install and maintain elevators, escalators, and moving walkways in everything from office towers to shopping malls. It’s a job that calls for serious mechanical know-how, attention to safety, and usually a licensed apprenticeship. The payoff: one of the highest-paid jobs in construction out there.
11. Pile Driver Operator
- Average salary: $75,440
- Average hourly pay: $36.27
Pile driver operators run heavy-duty machines that pound massive steel or concrete columns deep into the ground, laying the foundation for bridges, buildings, and piers. It’s loud, powerful work that plays a huge role in keeping structures standing strong. You’ll need nerves of steel, solid focus, and some specialized training to get behind the controls, but the pay is rock solid.
10. Construction Manager
- Average salary: $113,770
- Average hourly pay: $54.70
Construction managers oversee projects from start to finish, handling budgets, schedules, crews, safety protocols, and more. Think of them as the team captain, juggling moving parts to keep jobs on track (and on budget.) It’s a big responsibility, but it comes with a big paycheck. To get started in this career you’ll need to attend a University that offers a construction management degree. There are several schools across the United States that offer this path including Virginia Tech and the University of Washington.
9. Plumber, Pipefitter, or Steamfitter
- Average salary: $70,440
- Average hourly pay: $33.87
From leaky faucets to high-pressure steam systems, these pros keep things flowing. Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters install and repair pipes that move water, gas, and other materials through homes, businesses, and industrial sites. The work can be gritty and often happens in tight or awkward spaces, but strong problem-solving skills and steady hands can turn this into a high-paying, in-demand career.
8. Crane Operator
- Average salary: $67,050
- Average hourly pay: $32.24
Crane operators are the muscle behind major builds, lifting and placing tons of material with pinpoint accuracy. Whether swinging steel beams into place or unloading cargo, they use tower or mobile cranes to do the job safely and smoothly. It takes steady hands, sharp focus, and proper certification, but once you’re in the cab, you control some of the most powerful equipment on site.
7. Civil Engineer (construction focus)
- Average salary: $97,120
- Average hourly pay: $46.69
Civil engineers design and oversee big infrastructure projects like highways, bridges, tunnels, and sewer systems. This responsibility requires typically up to seven years of education which is why its one of the highest-paid jobs in construction even at entry level positions. From the planning desk to the jobsite, they balance technical know-how with real-world problem-solving to make sure everything is safe and up to code. This career can pay off big if you’re into numbers and designing megaprojects that last.
6. Cost Estimator (construction)
- Average salary: $78,700
- Average hourly pay: $37.84
Cost estimators are the number crunchers behind every successful project. They figure out how much a job will cost, factoring in labor, materials, equipment, and timelines. Their estimates help construction firms stay competitive when bidding and avoid costly surprises. If you’ve got a head for math and an eye for detail, this behind-the-scenes role can bring in solid earnings.
5. Construction and Building Inspector
- Average salary: $70,180
- Average hourly pay: $33.74
Inspectors make sure every part of a build from structural work, plumbing, electrical systems, and fire safety meets local codes and safety standards. It’s a detail-oriented job that requires a strong knowledge of regulations and a keen eye for spotting issues before they become big problems. For those who like keeping projects safe and up to spec, it’s a well-paid path with long-term demand.
4. Project Executive (construction)
- Average salary: $130,000+
- Average hourly pay: $62.50+
Project executives manage high-level construction projects by overseeing large teams, handling client relationships, and making sure everything aligns with the company’s strategic goals. This role requires years of experience, so you’ll need to start as a project manager first and build your expertise. This process is time-consuming but well worth it as it comes with a paycheck that matches the skills acquired.
3. Architectural and Engineering Manager
- Average salary: $159,920
- Average hourly pay: $76.88
Architectural and engineering managers are the bridge between creativity and execution. They lead teams of architects or engineers on complex projects, keeping designs innovative and buildable. They juggle big responsibilities while keeping everything on track, from managing timelines and budgets to solving technical challenges. If you have leadership skills and a strong technical background, this role is one of the highest-paid jobs in construction with the potential to surpass $200,000 for high perfomers.
2. Construction Lawyer
- Average salary: $145,000+
- Average hourly pay: $69.71+
Construction lawyers handle everything from drafting contracts and navigating disputes to making sure projects comply with local, state, and federal laws. This is a unique role on the list as it requires a law degree. Whether it’s resolving issues between contractors or protecting a company’s interests in court, it’s a high-stakes role with an equally big payoff.
1. Chief Construction Officer (CCO)
- Average salary: $180,000+
- Average hourly pay: $86.54+
At the top of the construction ladder sits the Chief Construction Officer, also referred to as VP of Construction or Director of Operations. This person is responsible for overseeing an entire company’s construction operations, from setting long-term goals to managing budgets, teams, and timelines across multiple projects. Because the role drives strategy and results, it demands deep industry experience, leadership skills, and a sharp business sense. For those who make it to this level, the paycheck reflects the weight of the job.
Highest paying states for construction workers
Wages in construction can vary significantly across the U.S. They are influenced by factors like cost of living, demand for skilled labor, union presence, and the scale of infrastructure projects. States with urban centers often offer higher pay to attract top talent.
Top 5 highest paying states for construction workers according to BLS data:
- Illinois – $79,650
- Alaska – $75,720
- Hawaii – $72,940
- New Jersey – $72,360
- Massachusetts – $71,490
For a visual representation of construction wages across the U.S., refer to the BLS map below:
Image sourced from bls.gov
Construction offers big opportunities, from skilled trades like elevator repair and welding to top-tier leadership and legal roles; there’s room to grow and earn across every level. For those looking to start their career in construction, trade schools across America offer various programs to break into the field. Beyond pay, there are various reasons to make trades your career like job security and getting paid during apprenticeships.
If you’re looking for more insights on how to increase your earning power and succeed in the construction industry, subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest career insights, salary breakdowns, and job opportunities.
