Trade Careers in Nevada
Quick answer: In Nevada, elevator mechanics earn a median of $141,950 and electrical line workers $96,560 (BLS, May 2025), making them two of the state’s highest-paying trades. Most trades are entered through an apprenticeship or a trade-school program, often with just a high school diploma or GED to start. Licensing for trades like electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work is handled by the state agencies listed below, primarily the Nevada State Contractors Board.
Nevada’s growing population and booming construction industry have created high demand for skilled trades. From Las Vegas to Reno and Elko, careers in the trades are offering real opportunity and job security.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to switch paths, here’s how to launch a rewarding trade career in Nevada.
Why Trade Careers Are Growing in Nevada
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Rapid Growth | Nevada’s population and housing demand continue to rise |
| Union Opportunities | Strong IBEW, UA, and trade union presence across the state |
| Energy Sector | Solar, geothermal, and energy efficiency projects create trade job openings |
| Workforce Investment | Programs like Workforce Connections and Nevada Ready! support training |
“Skilled labor is essential to meeting Nevada’s housing and energy needs.” - Nevada Department of Employment, Training and Rehabilitation1
Compare Skilled Trades in Nevada
| Trade | Median Salary | Training Time | License Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $62,380 | 6 months – 4 years (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) |
| Construction Worker | $48,990 | 3–12 months (apprenticeship or on-the-job) | Varies (OSHA 10/30; state contractor license for supervisors) |
| Flooring Installer | $58,540 | 6–12 months (on-the-job + coursework) | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) |
| Plumber | $61,610 | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) | Yes (state licensing) |
| Welder | $61,520 | 6–18 months (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (AWS certification preferred) |
| Construction Manager | $115,250 | 2–4 years (degree or field experience) | Varies (contractor license in many states) |
| Home Inspector | $75,290 | 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 | $73,570 | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) | Yes (state licensing) |
| HVAC Technician | $60,510 | 6 months – 2 years (certificate or associate) | Yes (EPA 608 and state licensing) |
| Lineworker | $96,560 | 3–4 years (joint apprenticeship) | Yes (apprenticeship + utility certifications) |
| Solar Installer | $67,810 | 3–12 months (bootcamp or apprenticeship) | Optional (NABCEP certification beneficial) |
| Tower Technician | $79,380 | 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) | $94,890 | 18–30 months (Part 147 school or apprenticeship) | Yes (FAA A&P license) |
| Auto Mechanic | $48,290 | 6–12 months (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) |
| Automotive Technician | $48,290 | 9–18 months (advanced diploma or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) |
| CNC Machinist | $53,050 | 9–24 months (certificate or apprenticeship) | Optional (NIMS certification beneficial) |
| Diesel Technician | $68,410 | 1–2 years (associate or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE or OEM certifications) |
| Gunsmith | N/A | 6–18 months (certificate or apprenticeship) | Optional (NRA/NSTC credentials beneficial) |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | $71,410 | 6–12 months (trade school or union program) | Optional (CDL required for many roles) |
| Maintenance Technician | $52,360 | 6–12 months (trade school or on-the-job) | Optional (CMRT or OEM certifications) |
| Truck Driver (CDL) | $62,290 | 3–6 months (CDL program) | Yes (CDL Class A or B) |
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | $45,490 | 4–12 weeks (state-approved program) | Yes (state CNA exam) |
| Patient Care Technician | $45,490 | 4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes (CNA license + PCT certification in many hospitals) |
| Hemodialysis Technician | $49,620 | 4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes (state certification or BONENT/CCHT credential) |
| Home Health Aide | $33,670 | 3–6 months (training + competency exam) | Yes in many states (state-approved HHA program) |
| Medical Assistant | $45,200 | 9–12 months (certificate or diploma) | Optional (CMA, RMA, or CCMA) |
| Mental Health Technician | $46,450 | 6–12 months (certificate + clinical experience) | Varies (state registration + employer training) |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | $76,160 | 12–18 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) |
| Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) | $76,160 | 12–18 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) |
| Dental Assistant | $47,110 | 9–18 months (diploma or associate program) | Varies (CDA, RDA, or state license) |
| EKG Technician | $71,240 | 3–9 months (certificate program) | Optional (CET, CCT, or AMCA) |
| Pharmacy Technician | $47,980 | 6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job) | Varies (state license or PTCB/ExCPT) |
| Phlebotomy Technician | $45,760 | 4–6 months (certificate + clinical practice) | Yes in many states (national certification preferred) |
| Radiologic Technologist | $82,910 | 2 years (associate degree) | Yes (ARRT registration + state license) |
| Diagnostic Medical Sonographer | $95,980 | 18–24 months (accredited associate or certificate) | Yes (ARDMS/CCI credential; state license in some areas) |
| Sterile Processing Technician | $46,640 | 6–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes in many states (CRCST or CBSPD certification) |
| Surgical Technologist | $75,480 | 12–24 months (accredited surgical tech program) | Yes in many states (NBSTSA or NCCT certification) |
| Optician | $46,910 | 9–24 months (apprenticeship or associate) | Yes in many states (state license or ABO-NCLE) |
| Medical Billing & Coding Specialist | $50,300 | 9–24 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (CPC, CCA, or CBCS) |
| Medical Office Administrator | $46,990 | 9–18 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (CMAA or CEHRS certification) |
| Occupational Therapy Assistant | $79,510 | 2 years (accredited associate degree) | Yes (state license via NBCOT exam) |
| Physical Therapy Aide | $31,970 | 3–12 months (certificate or employer training) | Optional (on-the-job + certificate programs) |
| Massage Therapist | $53,540 | 9–18 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state license) |
| Personal Trainer | $57,960 | 3–6 months (exam prep + practicum) | Yes (national certification required by many employers) |
| Dog Trainer | $36,760 | 6–12 months (mentorship or certificate) | Optional (industry certifications preferred) |
| Veterinary Assistant | $36,920 | 6–12 months (certificate + hands-on experience) | Optional (AVMA-approved assistant credential) |
| Veterinary Technician | $50,250 | 2 years (associate degree) | Yes (VTNE and state license) |
| Beauty Professional | $33,840 | 9–15 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state cosmetology license) |
| Cosmetologist | $33,840 | 9–18 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state cosmetology license) |
| Esthetician | $38,660 | 4–9 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state esthetics license) |
| Culinary Chef | $41,485 | 1–2 years (culinary school or apprenticeship) | Optional (ServSafe + local food handler permit) |
| Pastry Chef | $41,485 | 9–18 months (baking & pastry diploma or apprenticeship) | Optional (ServSafe; ACF certification boosts prospects) |
| Bookkeeper | $50,380 | 6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job) | Optional (CB or CPB certification beneficial) |
| Digital Court Reporter | $62,030 | 6–12 months (certificate program) | Optional (AAERT certification preferred) |
| Paralegal | $64,680 | 12–24 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (ABA-approved certificate beneficial) |
Source: BLS OEWS, May 2025. State data (Nevada).
Nevada Apprenticeships and Schools
Nevada supports a wide network of union apprenticeship programs and public career training through community colleges and workforce centers.
| Training Type | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Apprenticeship | 3-5 years | Paid training with apprenticeship placements; availability varies and is not guaranteed |
| Community College | 6-24 months | Certificates and AAS degrees in construction, HVAC, and more |
| Trade Academies | Varies | IBEW, UA, and other unions operate training centers |
“Nevada apprenticeships help meet the needs of today’s labor market.” - NevadaWorks2
Trade Schools in Nevada
From College of Southern Nevada to Great Basin College, public and private trade schools offer hands-on career training that prepares you for jobs; employment outcomes vary by location and job market.
Why Attend Trade School in Nevada?
| Advantage | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| Accelerated Training | Get skilled and job-ready in under 2 years |
| In-Demand Programs | HVAC, electrical, solar, welding, and more |
| Job Placement Support | Many schools partner with employers and unions |
| Geographic Reach | Campuses in Las Vegas, Henderson, Elko, and beyond |
Explore Accredited Schools
Nevada Licensing Agencies
| Trade | Licensing Agency |
|---|---|
| Electrician | Nevada State Contractors Board |
| Plumber | Nevada State Contractors Board |
| HVAC Technician | Licensed as HVAC Contractor via State Contractors Board |
| Solar Installer | May require contractor licensing for solar electric work |
| Mold Inspector | No state license required; private certification encouraged |
Nevada Trade Career Outlook
Building & Construction Trades
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Carpenter | 4.5% |
| Plumber | 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% |
| Tower Technician | 8.6% |
| Electrician | 9.5% |
| Solar Installer | 42.1% |
| Wind Turbine Technician | 49.9% |
| HVAC Technician | 8.1% |
Mechanical, Automotive & Transportation
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanic (A&P) | 4.0% |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | 3.6% |
| Gunsmith | 2.0% |
| Diesel Technician | 2.4% |
| Truck Driver (CDL) | 4.0% |
| CNC Machinist | 0.0% |
| Maintenance Technician | 3.8% |
| Auto Mechanic | 4.2% |
| Automotive Technician | 4.2% |
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% |
| Mental Health Technician | 20.0% |
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | 2.3% |
| Patient Care Technician | 2.3% |
| Medical Assistant | 12.5% |
| 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% |
| Pharmacy Technician | 6.4% |
| Dental Assistant | 6.4% |
| Optician | 2.9% |
| Sterile Processing Technician | 10.0% |
| Phlebotomy Technician | 5.6% |
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% |
| 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% |
| Digital Court Reporter | -0.3% |
| 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.
Ready to Start a Trade Career in Nevada?
Pick a trade. Get trained. Nevada’s growing economy needs skilled workers, and that starts with 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
Nevada DETR - Workforce Development: https://detr.nv.gov ↩︎
NevadaWorks - Apprenticeship & Training Programs: https://nevadaworks.com ↩︎