In Canada and the USA, skilled labor professionals can earn high salaries, especially in trades that require specialized expertise, experience, and certifications. The highest-paid skilled labor professionals typically include:
1. Canada
• Powerline Technicians: CAD $80,000 – $150,000 per year
• Industrial Electricians: CAD $75,000 – $130,000 per year
• Elevator Mechanics: CAD $80,000 – $140,000 per year
• Heavy Equipment Technicians: CAD $70,000 – $120,000 per year
• Welders (Specialized, e.g., underwater welding): CAD $80,000 – $200,000+ per year
• Aircraft Mechanics: CAD $70,000 – $120,000 per year
• Boilermakers: CAD $80,000 – $140,000 per year
2. USA
• Elevator Installers & Repairers: USD $80,000 – $140,000 per year
• Powerline Technicians: USD $80,000 – $140,000 per year
• Industrial Electricians: USD $70,000 – $130,000 per year
• HVAC Technicians (Specialized, e.g., commercial or industrial work): USD $60,000 – $120,000 per year
• Underwater Welders: USD $100,000 – $300,000 per year
• Aircraft Mechanics & Technicians: USD $70,000 – $120,000 per year
• Crane Operators: USD $80,000 – $130,000 per year
Key Factors Affecting Salary:
• Location (cost of living and demand)
• Industry (union vs. non-union jobs)
• Experience and certifications
• Specializations (e.g., underwater welding, high-voltage electrical work)
Among these, underwater welders have the highest earning potential but also face significant risks. Elevator technicians, powerline workers, and industrial electricians also consistently rank among the highest-paid skilled trades.