What is the highest-paying trade in Delaware?

Among common trades, electrical line workers earn the most in Delaware, with a median wage of about $97,180 (BLS, May 2025). Aircraft mechanics follow at around $83,550, and plumbers earn a median of roughly $64,720. Pay rises with experience, certifications, and holding a journeyman or master license.

What are the highest-paying trade careers in Delaware?

In Delaware, electrical line workers ($97,180 median) and aircraft mechanics ($83,550 median) lead the list, followed by plumbers, electricians, and HVAC technicians (BLS, May 2025). Actual earnings vary by metro area, experience level, and license tier. See the salary comparison table above for Delaware-specific BLS wage data.

Do you need a license to work in the trades in Delaware?

Licensing requirements in Delaware vary by trade. Electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians typically need state or local licenses, while other trades may only require certification. Check with Delaware's licensing agencies listed in the table above for specific requirements in your chosen field.

How do I start a trade career in Delaware?

Start by choosing a trade that interests you, then enroll in a trade school program or apply for an apprenticeship in Delaware. Many programs accept students with a high school diploma or GED. Apprenticeships let you earn while you learn, and trade school programs often take two years or less to complete.

How long does trade school take in Delaware?

Most trade school programs in Delaware take between 6 months and 2 years to complete, depending on the trade. Certificate programs are typically shorter, while associate degree programs take about two years. Apprenticeships generally run 3 to 5 years and combine classroom instruction with paid on-the-job training.

Are apprenticeships a good way to enter the trades in Delaware?

Yes. Registered apprenticeships are one of the most common entry points for trades like electrician, plumber, and HVAC technician in Delaware. They combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction, so you earn wages while building the hours needed toward licensure. Many are run through local unions, employers, and the U.S. Department of Labor's apprenticeship program.

Are trade careers in Delaware in demand?

Yes. Skilled trades across Delaware see steady demand from infrastructure work, housing construction, and an aging workforce that is creating openings as experienced workers retire. Demand and openings vary by trade and region, so review the outlook table above for current figures.

Trade Careers in Delaware

Updated June 8, 2026 | TradeCareerPath Editorial Team

Quick answer: In Delaware, electrical line workers earn a median of about $97,180 and plumbers around $64,720 (BLS, May 2025), making them some of the best-paid trades in the state. Most trades are entered through a registered apprenticeship or a trade-school program, and you can usually start with a high school diploma or GED. Licensing is handled by the Delaware state agencies listed in the licensing table below.

Delaware’s proximity to major metro areas drives demand for skilled trades. Compare career paths, training options, and licensing steps to launch your trade career in Delaware.

Why Trade Careers in Delaware

Benefit	Details
Regional Demand	Construction and infrastructure projects across the region
Apprenticeships	Paid, structured programs through unions and employers
Fast Entry	Certificates and associate programs under two years
Career Growth	Clear pathways from entry level to journeyman and master

Compare Skilled Trades in Delaware

Trade	Median Salary	Training Time	License Required?
Carpenter	$59,200	6 months - 4 years (trade school or apprenticeship)	Optional (apprenticeship recommended)
Construction Worker	$45,550	3-12 months (apprenticeship or on-the-job)	Varies (OSHA 10/30; state contractor license for supervisors)
Flooring Installer	N/A	6-12 months (on-the-job + coursework)	Optional (apprenticeship recommended)
Plumber	$64,720	4-5 years (apprenticeship)	Yes (state licensing)
Welder	$57,270	6-18 months (trade school or apprenticeship)	Optional (AWS certification preferred)
Construction Manager	$132,150	2-4 years (degree or field experience)	Varies (contractor license in many states)
Home Inspector	$72,700	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	$63,700	4-5 years (apprenticeship)	Yes (state licensing)
HVAC Technician	$62,320	6 months - 2 years (certificate or associate)	Yes (EPA 608 and state licensing)
Lineworker	$97,180	3-4 years (joint apprenticeship)	Yes (apprenticeship + utility certifications)
Solar Installer	N/A	3-12 months (bootcamp or apprenticeship)	Optional (NABCEP certification beneficial)
Tower Technician	$60,740	3-9 months (tower climbing school + field training)	Yes (OSHA/NRF safety + CPR certifications)
Wind Turbine Technician	N/A	1-2 years (associate or technical diploma)	Yes (industry safety certifications)
Aircraft Mechanic (A&P)	$83,550	18-30 months (Part 147 school or apprenticeship)	Yes (FAA A&P license)
Auto Mechanic	$58,410	6-12 months (trade school or apprenticeship)	Optional (ASE certifications preferred)
Automotive Technician	$58,410	9-18 months (advanced diploma or apprenticeship)	Optional (ASE certifications preferred)
CNC Machinist	$62,650	9-24 months (certificate or apprenticeship)	Optional (NIMS certification beneficial)
Diesel Technician	$63,590	1-2 years (associate or apprenticeship)	Optional (ASE or OEM certifications)
Gunsmith	$82,200	6-18 months (certificate or apprenticeship)	Optional (NRA/NSTC credentials beneficial)
Heavy Equipment Operator	$58,020	6-12 months (trade school or union program)	Optional (CDL required for many roles)
Maintenance Technician	$50,150	6-12 months (trade school or on-the-job)	Optional (CMRT or OEM certifications)
Truck Driver (CDL)	$57,590	3-6 months (CDL program)	Yes (CDL Class A or B)
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)	$42,030	4-12 weeks (state-approved program)	Yes (state CNA exam)
Patient Care Technician	$42,030	4-12 months (certificate + clinical hours)	Yes (CNA license + PCT certification in many hospitals)
Hemodialysis Technician	$78,650	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	$44,490	9-12 months (certificate or diploma)	Optional (CMA, RMA, or CCMA)
Mental Health Technician	$38,410	6-12 months (certificate + clinical experience)	Varies (state registration + employer training)
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)	$68,710	12-18 months (state-approved program)	Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN)
Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)	$68,710	12-18 months (state-approved program)	Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN)
Dental Assistant	$47,600	9-18 months (diploma or associate program)	Varies (CDA, RDA, or state license)
EKG Technician	$87,640	3-9 months (certificate program)	Optional (CET, CCT, or AMCA)
Pharmacy Technician	$46,430	6-12 months (certificate or on-the-job)	Varies (state license or PTCB/ExCPT)
Phlebotomy Technician	$48,110	4-6 months (certificate + clinical practice)	Yes in many states (national certification preferred)
Radiologic Technologist	$84,210	2 years (associate degree)	Yes (ARRT registration + state license)
Diagnostic Medical Sonographer	$98,530	18-24 months (accredited associate or certificate)	Yes (ARDMS/CCI credential; state license in some areas)
Sterile Processing Technician	$53,300	6-12 months (certificate + clinical hours)	Yes in many states (CRCST or CBSPD certification)
Surgical Technologist	$62,250	12-24 months (accredited surgical tech program)	Yes in many states (NBSTSA or NCCT certification)
Optician	$46,220	9-24 months (apprenticeship or associate)	Yes in many states (state license or ABO-NCLE)
Medical Billing & Coding Specialist	$56,060	9-24 months (certificate or associate)	Optional (CPC, CCA, or CBCS)
Medical Office Administrator	$44,500	9-18 months (certificate or associate)	Optional (CMAA or CEHRS certification)
Occupational Therapy Assistant	$78,640	2 years (accredited associate degree)	Yes (state license via NBCOT exam)
Physical Therapy Aide	$34,060	3-12 months (certificate or employer training)	Optional (on-the-job + certificate programs)
Massage Therapist	$58,870	9-18 months (state-approved school)	Yes (state license)
Personal Trainer	$44,340	3-6 months (exam prep + practicum)	Yes (national certification required by many employers)
Dog Trainer	$33,810	6-12 months (mentorship or certificate)	Optional (industry certifications preferred)
Veterinary Assistant	$38,610	6-12 months (certificate + hands-on experience)	Optional (AVMA-approved assistant credential)
Veterinary Technician	$48,370	2 years (associate degree)	Yes (VTNE and state license)
Beauty Professional	$34,350	9-15 months (state-approved school)	Yes (state cosmetology license)
Cosmetologist	$34,350	9-18 months (state-approved school)	Yes (state cosmetology license)
Esthetician	$50,820	4-9 months (state-approved program)	Yes (state esthetics license)
Culinary Chef	$40,048	1-2 years (culinary school or apprenticeship)	Optional (ServSafe + local food handler permit)
Pastry Chef	$40,048	9-18 months (baking & pastry diploma or apprenticeship)	Optional (ServSafe; ACF certification boosts prospects)
Bookkeeper	$51,780	6-12 months (certificate or on-the-job)	Optional (CB or CPB certification beneficial)
Digital Court Reporter	$44,760	6-12 months (certificate program)	Optional (AAERT certification preferred)
Paralegal	$63,110	12-24 months (certificate or associate)	Optional (ABA-approved certificate beneficial)

Source: BLS OEWS, May 2025. State data (Delaware).

Highest-paying skilled trades in Delaware: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists leads at $103,510 median annual wage. Source: U.S. BLS OEWS, May 2025 release. — The highest-paying trades in Delaware

Apprenticeships & Training Paths

Training Type	Duration	Notes
Apprenticeship	3-5 years	Earn while you learn
Trade School	6-18 months	Accredited programs statewide
On-the-Job Training	Varies	Employer-led training

Trade Schools in Delaware

Delaware Licensing Overview

Trade	Licensing Overview (check state/local rules)
Electrician	State and/or local licensing; exams and hours may apply
Plumber	Contractor or plumbing board requirements vary by jurisdiction
HVAC Technician	Often licensed via mechanical/contractor board; EPA 608 typically required
Solar Installer	May require electrical license; NABCEP certification recommended
Welder	Employer or AWS/City certifications based on project requirements

Delaware Trade Career Outlook

Building & Construction Trades

Trade	Job Growth (2024-2034, US)
Plumber	4.5%
Carpenter	4.5%
Welder	2.2%
Flooring Installer	9.5%
Construction Worker	7.3%

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)
Aircraft Mechanic (A&P)	4.0%
Gunsmith	2.0%
Diesel Technician	2.4%
CNC Machinist	0.0%
Auto Mechanic	4.2%
Automotive Technician	4.2%
Heavy Equipment Operator	3.6%
Truck Driver (CDL)	4.0%
Maintenance Technician	3.8%

Healthcare: Nursing & Patient Care

Trade	Job Growth (2024-2034, US)
Hemodialysis Technician	5.2%
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)	2.6%
Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)	2.6%
Medical Assistant	12.5%
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)	2.3%
Patient Care Technician	2.3%
Mental Health Technician	20.0%
Home Health Aide	17.0%

Healthcare: Allied Health & Diagnostics

Trade	Job Growth (2024-2034, US)
Diagnostic Medical Sonographer	13.0%
EKG Technician	3.0%
Radiologic Technologist	4.3%
Surgical Technologist	4.5%
Sterile Processing Technician	10.0%
Phlebotomy Technician	5.6%
Dental Assistant	6.4%
Pharmacy Technician	6.4%
Optician	2.9%

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%
Massage Therapist	15.4%
Personal Trainer	11.9%
Physical Therapy Aide	2.8%

Animal Care & Training

Trade	Job Growth (2024-2034, US)
Veterinary Technician	9.1%
Veterinary Assistant	8.7%
Dog Trainer	5.1%

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)
Paralegal	0.2%
Bookkeeper	-5.8%
Digital Court Reporter	-0.3%

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.

Get Started in Delaware

Choose your trade, explore programs, and take the first step toward a high-demand career in Delaware.

Degree Programs in Delaware

Trade school is not the only route. These are the four-year and graduate degrees on this site, with Delaware pay, employment and school listings for each. They sit above the trades on this page rather than alongside them.

Construction and the built environment

Manufacturing, maintenance and energy

Health care

Business, technology and public service

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/.