Trade Careers in New York
Quick answer: In New York, elevator mechanics earn a median of $135,720 and electricians $78,750 (BLS, May 2025), among the better-paying trades in the state. Most trades are entered through a registered apprenticeship or a trade-school program. Licensing is handled by the state and local agencies listed below on this page.
New York’s skilled trades are essential to its infrastructure, housing, energy, and transportation sectors. From New York City to Buffalo, Albany, and beyond, demand is growing fast for qualified tradespeople in every corner of the state.
Whether you’re finishing high school or changing careers, here’s how to start a rewarding trade career in New York.
Why Trade Careers Are Growing in New York
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Infrastructure Spending | Massive investments in transportation, housing, and energy systems statewide |
| Green Energy Investment | Wind, solar, and building efficiency programs driving job creation |
| Strong Union Network | IBEW, UA, and local trade unions offer solid apprenticeships |
“Trades are at the core of New York’s clean energy and infrastructure plans.” NYS Department of Labor1
Compare Skilled Trades in New York
| Trade | Median Salary | Training Time | License Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $72,330 | 6 months – 4 years (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) |
| Construction Worker | $55,930 | 3–12 months (apprenticeship or on-the-job) | Varies (OSHA 10/30; state contractor license for supervisors) |
| Flooring Installer | $61,169 | 6–12 months (on-the-job + coursework) | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) |
| Plumber | $77,490 | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) | Yes (state licensing) |
| Welder | $59,140 | 6–18 months (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (AWS certification preferred) |
| Construction Manager | $155,360 | 2–4 years (degree or field experience) | Varies (contractor license in many states) |
| Home Inspector | $79,460 | 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 | $78,750 | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) | Yes (state licensing) |
| HVAC Technician | $74,430 | 6 months – 2 years (certificate or associate) | Yes (EPA 608 and state licensing) |
| Lineworker | $121,280 | 3–4 years (joint apprenticeship) | Yes (apprenticeship + utility certifications) |
| Solar Installer | $56,160 | 3–12 months (bootcamp or apprenticeship) | Optional (NABCEP certification beneficial) |
| Tower Technician | $81,070 | 3–9 months (tower climbing school + field training) | Yes (OSHA/NRF safety + CPR certifications) |
| Wind Turbine Technician | $81,330 | 1–2 years (associate or technical diploma) | Yes (industry safety certifications) |
| Aircraft Mechanic (A&P) | $102,800 | 18–30 months (Part 147 school or apprenticeship) | Yes (FAA A&P license) |
| Auto Mechanic | $54,120 | 6–12 months (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) |
| Automotive Technician | $54,120 | 9–18 months (advanced diploma or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) |
| CNC Machinist | $60,920 | 9–24 months (certificate or apprenticeship) | Optional (NIMS certification beneficial) |
| Diesel Technician | $70,100 | 1–2 years (associate or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE or OEM certifications) |
| Gunsmith | $65,170 | 6–18 months (certificate or apprenticeship) | Optional (NRA/NSTC credentials beneficial) |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | $80,980 | 6–12 months (trade school or union program) | Optional (CDL required for many roles) |
| Maintenance Technician | $57,790 | 6–12 months (trade school or on-the-job) | Optional (CMRT or OEM certifications) |
| Truck Driver (CDL) | $62,050 | 3–6 months (CDL program) | Yes (CDL Class A or B) |
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | $48,590 | 4–12 weeks (state-approved program) | Yes (state CNA exam) |
| Patient Care Technician | $48,590 | 4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes (CNA license + PCT certification in many hospitals) |
| Hemodialysis Technician | $60,320 | 4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes (state certification or BONENT/CCHT credential) |
| Home Health Aide | $39,620 | 3–6 months (training + competency exam) | Yes in many states (state-approved HHA program) |
| Medical Assistant | $48,000 | 9–12 months (certificate or diploma) | Optional (CMA, RMA, or CCMA) |
| Mental Health Technician | $58,080 | 6–12 months (certificate + clinical experience) | Varies (state registration + employer training) |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | $67,180 | 12–18 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) |
| Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) | $67,180 | 12–18 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) |
| Dental Assistant | $48,110 | 9–18 months (diploma or associate program) | Varies (CDA, RDA, or state license) |
| EKG Technician | $89,570 | 3–9 months (certificate program) | Optional (CET, CCT, or AMCA) |
| Pharmacy Technician | $43,930 | 6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job) | Varies (state license or PTCB/ExCPT) |
| Phlebotomy Technician | $50,530 | 4–6 months (certificate + clinical practice) | Yes in many states (national certification preferred) |
| Radiologic Technologist | $98,470 | 2 years (associate degree) | Yes (ARRT registration + state license) |
| Diagnostic Medical Sonographer | $103,920 | 18–24 months (accredited associate or certificate) | Yes (ARDMS/CCI credential; state license in some areas) |
| Sterile Processing Technician | $57,320 | 6–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes in many states (CRCST or CBSPD certification) |
| Surgical Technologist | $79,550 | 12–24 months (accredited surgical tech program) | Yes in many states (NBSTSA or NCCT certification) |
| Optician | $63,880 | 9–24 months (apprenticeship or associate) | Yes in many states (state license or ABO-NCLE) |
| Medical Billing & Coding Specialist | $61,720 | 9–24 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (CPC, CCA, or CBCS) |
| Medical Office Administrator | $47,710 | 9–18 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (CMAA or CEHRS certification) |
| Occupational Therapy Assistant | $68,530 | 2 years (accredited associate degree) | Yes (state license via NBCOT exam) |
| Physical Therapy Aide | $35,380 | 3–12 months (certificate or employer training) | Optional (on-the-job + certificate programs) |
| Massage Therapist | $62,630 | 9–18 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state license) |
| Personal Trainer | $47,090 | 3–6 months (exam prep + practicum) | Yes (national certification required by many employers) |
| Dog Trainer | $48,790 | 6–12 months (mentorship or certificate) | Optional (industry certifications preferred) |
| Veterinary Assistant | $44,750 | 6–12 months (certificate + hands-on experience) | Optional (AVMA-approved assistant credential) |
| Veterinary Technician | $59,010 | 2 years (associate degree) | Yes (VTNE and state license) |
| Beauty Professional | $35,760 | 9–15 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state cosmetology license) |
| Cosmetologist | $35,760 | 9–18 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state cosmetology license) |
| Esthetician | $42,910 | 4–9 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state esthetics license) |
| Culinary Chef | $47,470 | 1–2 years (culinary school or apprenticeship) | Optional (ServSafe + local food handler permit) |
| Pastry Chef | $47,470 | 9–18 months (baking & pastry diploma or apprenticeship) | Optional (ServSafe; ACF certification boosts prospects) |
| Bookkeeper | $58,160 | 6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job) | Optional (CB or CPB certification beneficial) |
| Digital Court Reporter | $101,990 | 6–12 months (certificate program) | Optional (AAERT certification preferred) |
| Paralegal | $68,410 | 12–24 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (ABA-approved certificate beneficial) |
Source: BLS OEWS, May 2025. State data (New York).
New York Apprenticeships and Schools
New York has hundreds of union and non-union apprenticeships, plus trade programs offered by SUNY colleges, BOCES, and city workforce programs.
| Training Type | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Apprenticeship | 3-5 years | Paid training, many via union locals (IBEW, UA, etc.) |
| Community College | 6-24 months | Certificate and associate degree programs statewide |
| BOCES & City Programs | Varies | Free or low-cost for eligible high school grads and adults |
“Apprenticeship is the gold standard for earning while learning in New York.” NY Apprenticeship Office2
Trade Schools in New York
New York has dozens of trade-focused institutions, from public community colleges to private schools like Lincoln Tech and Apex Technical School.
Why Attend Trade School in New York?
| Advantage | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| Tuition Options | Ask schools about available payment options |
| Diverse Programs | From HVAC to welding, electrical, medical, and more |
| City & Rural Access | Schools in NYC, Rochester, Buffalo, Long Island, and more |
| Employer Partnerships | Many trade schools connect directly with unions or companies |
| Fast Certification | Programs range from 6 months to 2 years |
Explore Accredited Schools
New York Licensing Agencies
| Trade | Licensing Agency |
|---|---|
| Electrician | NYC Department of Buildings, Electrical Licensing |
| Plumber | NYC Department of Buildings, Plumbing Licensing |
| HVAC Technician | Local licensing or contractor registration (varies by county) |
| Solar Installer | May need electrical license depending on system type |
| Mold Inspector | No state license; certifications like NORMI or ACAC recommended |
New York Trade Career Outlook
Building & Construction Trades
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Plumber | 4.5% |
| Carpenter | 4.5% |
| Flooring Installer | 9.5% |
| Welder | 2.2% |
| 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% |
| Tower Technician | 8.6% |
| Electrician | 9.5% |
| HVAC Technician | 8.1% |
| Solar Installer | 42.1% |
Mechanical, Automotive & Transportation
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanic (A&P) | 4.0% |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | 3.6% |
| Diesel Technician | 2.4% |
| Gunsmith | 2.0% |
| 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% |
| EKG Technician | 3.0% |
| Surgical Technologist | 4.5% |
| Optician | 2.9% |
| Sterile Processing Technician | 10.0% |
| Phlebotomy Technician | 5.6% |
| Dental Assistant | 6.4% |
| Pharmacy Technician | 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% |
| 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% |
| 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.
Ready to Start a Trade Career in New York?
Pick a trade. Train smart. Whether through SUNY, BOCES, a union apprenticeship, or workforce programs, New York has the path to your next career.
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
NY Department of Labor, Workforce and Training: https://dol.ny.gov ↩︎
New York State Apprenticeship Program: https://labor.ny.gov/apprenticeship/general/occupations.shtm ↩︎