Trade Careers in California
- πΌ Why Choose a Skilled Trade Career in California?
- βοΈ Trade Career Comparison: California
- π§° Popular Apprenticeships & Training Paths
- π« Trade Schools in California
- βοΈ California Licensing Agencies
- π Trade Career & Salary Outlook in California
- π Start Your Skilled Trade Career in California
- π Citations
Looking to build a career that doesn't require a four-year degree-and still pays well? Trade careers in California are booming. From the Central Valley to the Bay Area and SoCal suburbs, skilled trades are in high demand. Whether you want to wire homes, install solar panels, or inspect HVAC systems, there's a path for you.
This guide walks you through the most popular trade jobs in California, what they pay, how to get licensed, and where to train.
πΌ Why Choose a Skilled Trade Career in California?
| Advantage | Details |
|---|---|
| High Demand | Ongoing housing shortage and infrastructure investment statewide |
| Green Tech Growth | California leads the U.S. in clean energy and solar expansion |
| Licensing Support | State-regulated apprenticeship and certification pathways |
| Job Security | Most trades are recession-resistant and tied to essential infrastructure |
βSkilled trades are critical to California's economyβwith strong support for apprenticeships and employer partnerships.β - California Department of Industrial Relations[^1]
βοΈ Trade Career Comparison: California
| Trade | Median Salary | Training Time | License Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $74,820 | 6 months β 4 years (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) |
| Construction Worker | $60,540 | 3β12 months (apprenticeship or on-the-job) | Varies (OSHA 10/30; state contractor license for supervisors) |
| Flooring Installer | $60,780 | 6β12 months (on-the-job + coursework) | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) |
| Plumber | $68,390 | 4β5 years (apprenticeship) | Yes (state licensing) |
| Welder | $57,940 | 6β18 months (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (AWS certification preferred) |
| Construction Manager | $129,000 | 2β4 years (degree or field experience) | Varies (contractor license in many states) |
| Home Inspector | $101,160 | 2β6 months (state-approved course) | Yes in many states (state license) |
| Mold Inspector | N/A | 3β12 months (coursework + field hours) | Varies (state license or industry certification) |
| Electrician | $76,540 | 4β5 years (apprenticeship) | Yes (state licensing) |
| HVAC Technician | $65,290 | 6 months β 2 years (certificate or associate) | Yes (EPA 608 and state licensing) |
| Lineworker | $122,520 | 3β4 years (joint apprenticeship) | Yes (apprenticeship + utility certifications) |
| Solar Installer | $60,790 | 3β12 months (bootcamp or apprenticeship) | Optional (NABCEP certification beneficial) |
| Tower Technician | $92,350 | 3β9 months (tower climbing school + field training) | Yes (OSHA/NRF safety + CPR certifications) |
| Wind Turbine Technician | $75,330 | 1β2 years (associate or technical diploma) | Yes (industry safety certifications) |
| Aircraft Mechanic (A&P) | $84,910 | 18β30 months (Part 147 school or apprenticeship) | Yes (FAA A&P license) |
| Auto Mechanic | $63,370 | 6β12 months (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) |
| Automotive Technician | $63,370 | 9β18 months (advanced diploma or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) |
| CNC Machinist | $56,220 | 9β24 months (certificate or apprenticeship) | Optional (NIMS certification beneficial) |
| Diesel Technician | $70,650 | 1β2 years (associate or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE or OEM certifications) |
| Gunsmith | $50,520 | 6β18 months (certificate or apprenticeship) | Optional (NRA/NSTC credentials beneficial) |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | $89,120 | 6β12 months (trade school or union program) | Optional (CDL required for many roles) |
| Maintenance Technician | $56,030 | 6β12 months (trade school or on-the-job) | Optional (CMRT or OEM certifications) |
| Truck Driver (CDL) | $59,950 | 3β6 months (CDL program) | Yes (CDL Class A or B) |
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | $46,420 | 4β12 weeks (state-approved program) | Yes (state CNA exam) |
| Patient Care Technician | $46,420 | 4β12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes (CNA license + PCT certification in many hospitals) |
| Hemodialysis Technician | $58,310 | 4β12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes (state certification or BONENT/CCHT credential) |
| Home Health Aide | $34,600 | 3β6 months (training + competency exam) | Yes in many states (state-approved HHA program) |
| Medical Assistant | $48,050 | 9β12 months (certificate or diploma) | Optional (CMA, RMA, or CCMA) |
| Mental Health Technician | $61,620 | 6β12 months (certificate + clinical experience) | Varies (state registration + employer training) |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | $77,170 | 12β18 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) |
| Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) | $77,170 | 12β18 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) |
| Dental Assistant | $48,910 | 9β18 months (diploma or associate program) | Varies (CDA, RDA, or state license) |
| EKG Technician | $64,720 | 3β9 months (certificate program) | Optional (CET, CCT, or AMCA) |
| Pharmacy Technician | $49,640 | 6β12 months (certificate or on-the-job) | Varies (state license or PTCB/ExCPT) |
| Phlebotomy Technician | $55,460 | 4β6 months (certificate + clinical practice) | Yes in many states (national certification preferred) |
| Radiologic Technologist | $107,670 | 2 years (associate degree) | Yes (ARRT registration + state license) |
| Diagnostic Medical Sonographer | $120,840 | 18β24 months (accredited associate or certificate) | Yes (ARDMS/CCI credential; state license in some areas) |
| Sterile Processing Technician | $62,710 | 6β12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes in many states (CRCST or CBSPD certification) |
| Surgical Technologist | $81,120 | 12β24 months (accredited surgical tech program) | Yes in many states (NBSTSA or NCCT certification) |
| Optician | $57,770 | 9β24 months (apprenticeship or associate) | Yes in many states (state license or ABO-NCLE) |
| Medical Billing & Coding Specialist | $59,700 | 9β24 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (CPC, CCA, or CBCS) |
| Medical Office Administrator | $52,720 | 9β18 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (CMAA or CEHRS certification) |
| Occupational Therapy Assistant | $79,420 | 2 years (accredited associate degree) | Yes (state license via NBCOT exam) |
| Physical Therapy Aide | $36,290 | 3β12 months (certificate or employer training) | Optional (on-the-job + certificate programs) |
| Massage Therapist | $48,430 | 9β18 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state license) |
| Personal Trainer | $56,600 | 3β6 months (exam prep + practicum) | Yes (national certification required by many employers) |
| Dog Trainer | $46,780 | 6β12 months (mentorship or certificate) | Optional (industry certifications preferred) |
| Veterinary Assistant | $45,470 | 6β12 months (certificate + hands-on experience) | Optional (AVMA-approved assistant credential) |
| Veterinary Technician | $55,080 | 2 years (associate degree) | Yes (VTNE and state license) |
| Beauty Professional | $39,370 | 9β15 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state cosmetology license) |
| Cosmetologist | $39,370 | 9β18 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state cosmetology license) |
| Esthetician | $36,390 | 4β9 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state esthetics license) |
| Culinary Chef | $46,320 | 1β2 years (culinary school or apprenticeship) | Optional (ServSafe + local food handler permit) |
| Pastry Chef | $46,320 | 9β18 months (baking & pastry diploma or apprenticeship) | Optional (ServSafe; ACF certification boosts prospects) |
| Bookkeeper | $57,470 | 6β12 months (certificate or on-the-job) | Optional (CB or CPB certification beneficial) |
| Digital Court Reporter | $103,640 | 6β12 months (certificate program) | Optional (AAERT certification preferred) |
| Paralegal | $72,960 | 12β24 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (ABA-approved certificate beneficial) |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2024. State data (California).
π§° Popular Apprenticeships & Training Paths
California supports thousands of state-approved apprenticeships, often paid.
| Training Type | Description | Where to Start |
|---|---|---|
| Apprenticeship | Earn while you learn (state-funded in many cases) | [DIR Apprenticeship Database][^1] |
| Trade School | Fast-track diploma or certificate programs | Community colleges or private tech schools |
| On-the-Job Training | Entry-level job + in-house certification path | Local contractors or unions (IBEW, UA, etc) |
βApprenticeship programs are available in nearly every trade in California, from electrical to HVAC to solar.β - California DIR[^1]
π« Trade Schools in California
California offers a wide range of accredited trade schools-including public community colleges, private career institutes, and union training centers.
Why Attend Trade School in California?
| Advantage | What It Means |
|---|---|
| State-Approved Programs | Programs often meet CSLB, DIR, and other licensing board criteria |
| Tuition Options | Ask schools about available payment options |
| Employer Networks | Many schools offer job placement and union apprenticeships |
| Fast Completion Times | Many trade programs take under 2 years |
| Clean Energy Career Focus | Schools offer specialized programs in solar and green energy |
Explore Further
- Best Trade Schools in California (2025) - Compare top programs by trade and region
- Online Trade Schools - Learn remotely from anywhere in California
βοΈ California Licensing Agencies
| Trade | Licensing Agency |
|---|---|
| Electrician | DIR - Electrician Certification |
| Plumber | CSLB - Contractors License |
| HVAC Technician | CSLB - C-20 Classification |
| Solar Installer | No specific license, may require C-46 or C-10 for wiring |
| Welder | LA City AWS Weld Certs |
| Mold Inspector | Typically certified via private training providers |
π Trade Career & Salary Outlook in California
Building & Construction Trades
| Trade | Median Salary | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|---|
| Welder | $57,940 | 2.2% |
| Plumber | $68,390 | 4.5% |
| Flooring Installer | $60,780 | 9.5% |
| Construction Worker | $60,540 | 7.3% |
| Carpenter | $74,820 | 4.5% |
Construction Management & Inspection
| Trade | Median Salary | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|---|
| Home Inspector | $101,160 | -0.8% |
| Construction Manager | $129,000 | 8.7% |
Electrical & Energy Systems
| Trade | Median Salary | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|---|
| Wind Turbine Technician | $75,330 | 49.9% |
| Tower Technician | $92,350 | -3.1% |
| Solar Installer | $60,790 | 42.1% |
| Lineworker | $122,520 | 6.6% |
| HVAC Technician | $65,290 | 8.1% |
| Electrician | $76,540 | 9.5% |
Mechanical, Automotive & Transportation
| Trade | Median Salary | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|---|
| Truck Driver (CDL) | $59,950 | 4.0% |
| Maintenance Technician | $56,030 | 3.8% |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | $89,120 | 3.6% |
| Gunsmith | $50,520 | 2.4% |
| Diesel Technician | $70,650 | 2.4% |
| CNC Machinist | $56,220 | 0.0% |
| Automotive Technician | $63,370 | 4.2% |
| Auto Mechanic | $63,370 | 4.2% |
| Aircraft Mechanic (A&P) | $84,910 | 4.0% |
Healthcare: Nursing & Patient Care
| Trade | Median Salary | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|---|
| Patient Care Technician | $46,420 | 2.3% |
| Mental Health Technician | $61,620 | 20.0% |
| Medical Assistant | $48,050 | 12.5% |
| Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) | $77,170 | 2.6% |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | $77,170 | 2.6% |
| Home Health Aide | $34,600 | 17.0% |
| Hemodialysis Technician | $58,310 | 5.2% |
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | $46,420 | 2.3% |
Healthcare: Allied Health & Diagnostics
| Trade | Median Salary | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|---|
| Surgical Technologist | $81,120 | 4.5% |
| Sterile Processing Technician | $62,710 | 10.0% |
| Radiologic Technologist | $107,670 | 4.3% |
| Phlebotomy Technician | $55,460 | 5.6% |
| Pharmacy Technician | $49,640 | 6.4% |
| Optician | $57,770 | 2.9% |
| EKG Technician | $64,720 | 3.0% |
| Diagnostic Medical Sonographer | $120,840 | 13.0% |
| Dental Assistant | $48,910 | 6.4% |
Healthcare: Administration & Office Support
| Trade | Median Salary | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Office Administrator | $52,720 | 4.2% |
| Medical Billing & Coding Specialist | $59,700 | 7.1% |
Therapy, Rehab & Fitness
| Trade | Median Salary | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Therapy Aide | $36,290 | 2.8% |
| Personal Trainer | $56,600 | 11.9% |
| Occupational Therapy Assistant | $79,420 | 19.2% |
| Massage Therapist | $48,430 | 15.4% |
Animal Care & Training
| Trade | Median Salary | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|---|
| Veterinary Technician | $55,080 | 9.1% |
| Veterinary Assistant | $45,470 | 8.7% |
| Dog Trainer | $46,780 | 5.1% |
Beauty & Personal Care
| Trade | Median Salary | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|---|
| Esthetician | $36,390 | 6.7% |
| Cosmetologist | $39,370 | 5.6% |
| Beauty Professional | $39,370 | 5.6% |
Culinary & Hospitality Careers
| Trade | Median Salary | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|---|
| Pastry Chef | $46,320 | 7.1% |
| Culinary Chef | $46,320 | 7.1% |
Business & Legal Support
| Trade | Median Salary | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|---|
| Paralegal | $72,960 | 0.2% |
| Digital Court Reporter | $103,640 | -0.3% |
| Bookkeeper | $57,470 | -5.8% |
Median salaries reflect the latest OEWS release; job growth uses state projections when available and national projections when state data is unavailable.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2024. State data (California). Job growth reflects projected U.S. change for each trade.
π Start Your Skilled Trade Career in California
Explore a trade, find a program near you, or get certified. Whether you're looking for job stability, purpose, or hands-on work, California's trade workforce needs you.
π Citations
[^1]: California Department of Industrial Relations - Apprenticeships: https://www.dir.ca.gov/das
[^2]: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics - Occupational Outlook Handbook: https://www.bls.gov/ooh
Explore Related Topics:
Meet the author: Brad Fishbein is a Florida Licensed Mold Assessor and council-certified Microbial Investigator. Heβs the founder of TradeCareerPath.com and has completed over 5,000 mold inspections since 2009. Brad now helps homeowners and tradespeople make smart decisions about mold, licensing, and skilled career paths.
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