Trade Careers in California
Quick answer: In California, elevator mechanics earn a median of $141,180 and electricians a median of $76,160 (BLS, May 2025), so the trades can pay well without a four-year degree. Most people enter a trade through a state-approved apprenticeship or a trade-school program. Licensing is handled by the California state agencies listed below, such as the DIR for electricians and the CSLB for plumbing and HVAC contractors.
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.
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 |
“Skilled trades are critical to California’s economy, with strong support for apprenticeships and employer partnerships.” California Department of Industrial Relations1
Trade Career Comparison: California
| Trade | Median Salary | Training Time | License Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $75,920 | 6 months – 4 years (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) |
| Construction Worker | $60,270 | 3–12 months (apprenticeship or on-the-job) | Varies (OSHA 10/30; state contractor license for supervisors) |
| Flooring Installer | $61,210 | 6–12 months (on-the-job + coursework) | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) |
| Plumber | $72,830 | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) | Yes (state licensing) |
| Welder | $58,060 | 6–18 months (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (AWS certification preferred) |
| Construction Manager | $133,160 | 2–4 years (degree or field experience) | Varies (contractor license in many states) |
| Home Inspector | $101,290 | 2–6 months (state-approved course) | Yes in many states (state license) |
| Mold Inspector | N/A | 3–12 months (coursework + field hours) | Varies (state license or industry certification) |
| Electrician | $76,160 | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) | Yes (state licensing) |
| HVAC Technician | $72,560 | 6 months – 2 years (certificate or associate) | Yes (EPA 608 and state licensing) |
| Lineworker | $129,040 | 3–4 years (joint apprenticeship) | Yes (apprenticeship + utility certifications) |
| Solar Installer | $60,600 | 3–12 months (bootcamp or apprenticeship) | Optional (NABCEP certification beneficial) |
| Tower Technician | $62,840 | 3–9 months (tower climbing school + field training) | Yes (OSHA/NRF safety + CPR certifications) |
| Wind Turbine Technician | $77,910 | 1–2 years (associate or technical diploma) | Yes (industry safety certifications) |
| Aircraft Mechanic (A&P) | $86,100 | 18–30 months (Part 147 school or apprenticeship) | Yes (FAA A&P license) |
| Auto Mechanic | $64,980 | 6–12 months (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) |
| Automotive Technician | $64,980 | 9–18 months (advanced diploma or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) |
| CNC Machinist | $57,190 | 9–24 months (certificate or apprenticeship) | Optional (NIMS certification beneficial) |
| Diesel Technician | $73,950 | 1–2 years (associate or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE or OEM certifications) |
| Gunsmith | $80,060 | 6–18 months (certificate or apprenticeship) | Optional (NRA/NSTC credentials beneficial) |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | $87,160 | 6–12 months (trade school or union program) | Optional (CDL required for many roles) |
| Maintenance Technician | $57,000 | 6–12 months (trade school or on-the-job) | Optional (CMRT or OEM certifications) |
| Truck Driver (CDL) | $60,230 | 3–6 months (CDL program) | Yes (CDL Class A or B) |
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | $47,630 | 4–12 weeks (state-approved program) | Yes (state CNA exam) |
| Patient Care Technician | $47,630 | 4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes (CNA license + PCT certification in many hospitals) |
| Hemodialysis Technician | $60,390 | 4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes (state certification or BONENT/CCHT credential) |
| Home Health Aide | $34,320 | 3–6 months (training + competency exam) | Yes in many states (state-approved HHA program) |
| Medical Assistant | $49,660 | 9–12 months (certificate or diploma) | Optional (CMA, RMA, or CCMA) |
| Mental Health Technician | $49,140 | 6–12 months (certificate + clinical experience) | Varies (state registration + employer training) |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | $79,750 | 12–18 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) |
| Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) | $79,750 | 12–18 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) |
| Dental Assistant | $50,110 | 9–18 months (diploma or associate program) | Varies (CDA, RDA, or state license) |
| EKG Technician | $78,170 | 3–9 months (certificate program) | Optional (CET, CCT, or AMCA) |
| Pharmacy Technician | $55,110 | 6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job) | Varies (state license or PTCB/ExCPT) |
| Phlebotomy Technician | $56,040 | 4–6 months (certificate + clinical practice) | Yes in many states (national certification preferred) |
| Radiologic Technologist | $121,260 | 2 years (associate degree) | Yes (ARRT registration + state license) |
| Diagnostic Medical Sonographer | $128,530 | 18–24 months (accredited associate or certificate) | Yes (ARDMS/CCI credential; state license in some areas) |
| Sterile Processing Technician | $61,370 | 6–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes in many states (CRCST or CBSPD certification) |
| Surgical Technologist | $81,310 | 12–24 months (accredited surgical tech program) | Yes in many states (NBSTSA or NCCT certification) |
| Optician | $57,990 | 9–24 months (apprenticeship or associate) | Yes in many states (state license or ABO-NCLE) |
| Medical Billing & Coding Specialist | $61,810 | 9–24 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (CPC, CCA, or CBCS) |
| Medical Office Administrator | $54,490 | 9–18 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (CMAA or CEHRS certification) |
| Occupational Therapy Assistant | $81,770 | 2 years (accredited associate degree) | Yes (state license via NBCOT exam) |
| Physical Therapy Aide | $38,330 | 3–12 months (certificate or employer training) | Optional (on-the-job + certificate programs) |
| Massage Therapist | $45,970 | 9–18 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state license) |
| Personal Trainer | $57,990 | 3–6 months (exam prep + practicum) | Yes (national certification required by many employers) |
| Dog Trainer | $49,060 | 6–12 months (mentorship or certificate) | Optional (industry certifications preferred) |
| Veterinary Assistant | $46,260 | 6–12 months (certificate + hands-on experience) | Optional (AVMA-approved assistant credential) |
| Veterinary Technician | $60,630 | 2 years (associate degree) | Yes (VTNE and state license) |
| Beauty Professional | $38,660 | 9–15 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state cosmetology license) |
| Cosmetologist | $38,660 | 9–18 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state cosmetology license) |
| Esthetician | $38,770 | 4–9 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state esthetics license) |
| Culinary Chef | $47,537 | 1–2 years (culinary school or apprenticeship) | Optional (ServSafe + local food handler permit) |
| Pastry Chef | $47,537 | 9–18 months (baking & pastry diploma or apprenticeship) | Optional (ServSafe; ACF certification boosts prospects) |
| Bookkeeper | $59,230 | 6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job) | Optional (CB or CPB certification beneficial) |
| Digital Court Reporter | $116,020 | 6–12 months (certificate program) | Optional (AAERT certification preferred) |
| Paralegal | $77,390 | 12–24 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (ABA-approved certificate beneficial) |
Source: BLS OEWS, May 2025. State data (California).
Popular Apprenticeships and 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) |
“Apprenticeship programs are available in nearly every trade in California, from electrical to HVAC to solar.” California DIR1
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 career 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.
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 |
Trade Career and Salary Outlook in California
Building & Construction Trades
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Carpenter | 4.5% |
| Plumber | 4.5% |
| Flooring Installer | 9.5% |
| Construction Worker | 7.3% |
| Welder | 2.2% |
Construction Management & Inspection
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Construction Manager | 8.7% |
| Home Inspector | -0.8% |
Electrical & Energy Systems
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Lineworker | 6.6% |
| Wind Turbine Technician | 49.9% |
| Electrician | 9.5% |
| HVAC Technician | 8.1% |
| Tower Technician | 8.6% |
| Solar Installer | 42.1% |
Mechanical, Automotive & Transportation
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Heavy Equipment Operator | 3.6% |
| Aircraft Mechanic (A&P) | 4.0% |
| Gunsmith | 2.0% |
| Diesel Technician | 2.4% |
| Auto Mechanic | 4.2% |
| Automotive Technician | 4.2% |
| Truck Driver (CDL) | 4.0% |
| CNC Machinist | 0.0% |
| Maintenance Technician | 3.8% |
Healthcare: Nursing & Patient Care
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | 2.6% |
| Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) | 2.6% |
| Hemodialysis Technician | 5.2% |
| Medical Assistant | 12.5% |
| Mental Health Technician | 20.0% |
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | 2.3% |
| Patient Care Technician | 2.3% |
| Home Health Aide | 17.0% |
Healthcare: Allied Health & Diagnostics
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Diagnostic Medical Sonographer | 13.0% |
| Radiologic Technologist | 4.3% |
| Surgical Technologist | 4.5% |
| EKG Technician | 3.0% |
| Sterile Processing Technician | 10.0% |
| Optician | 2.9% |
| Phlebotomy Technician | 5.6% |
| Pharmacy Technician | 6.4% |
| Dental Assistant | 6.4% |
Healthcare: Administration & Office Support
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Medical Billing & Coding Specialist | 7.1% |
| Medical Office Administrator | 4.2% |
Therapy, Rehab & Fitness
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Occupational Therapy Assistant | 19.2% |
| Personal Trainer | 11.9% |
| Massage Therapist | 15.4% |
| Physical Therapy Aide | 2.8% |
Animal Care & Training
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Veterinary Technician | 9.1% |
| Dog Trainer | 5.1% |
| Veterinary Assistant | 8.7% |
Beauty & Personal Care
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Esthetician | 6.7% |
| Beauty Professional | 5.6% |
| Cosmetologist | 5.6% |
Culinary & Hospitality Careers
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Culinary Chef | 7.1% |
| Pastry Chef | 7.1% |
Business & Legal Support
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Digital Court Reporter | -0.3% |
| Paralegal | 0.2% |
| Bookkeeper | -5.8% |
Job growth uses state projections when available and national projections (BLS Employment Projections, 2024-2034) when state data is unavailable. Median pay for each trade is shown in the comparison table above.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Employment Projections (2024-2034). Projected U.S. change shown for each trade.
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.
Citations
About this guide: Researched and written by the TradeCareerPath Editorial Team. Our editorial team researches and sources every trade school and career guide using federal labor and education data, including BLS OEWS and Employment Projections, DOL apprenticeship records, IPEDS, College Scorecard, and state licensing boards. We follow the editorial standards documented at /editorial-policy/.
References
California Department of Industrial Relations - Apprenticeships: https://www.dir.ca.gov/das ↩︎ ↩︎ ↩︎