Trade Careers in Washington
Quick answer: In Washington, elevator mechanics earn a median of about $137,180 and electricians about $95,220 (BLS, May 2025), so the trades pay well above many entry-level office jobs. Most trades are entered through a registered apprenticeship or a trade-school program rather than a four-year degree. Licensing is handled by the state agencies listed on this page, mainly the Washington Department of Labor and Industries.
Washington State’s skilled trades are essential to powering its clean energy, aerospace, construction, and maritime industries. From Seattle and Spokane to Tri-Cities and Bellingham, skilled workers are the backbone of Washington’s economy.
Whether you’re a recent high school grad or transitioning from another career, here’s how to start your journey in the trades across Washington.
Why Trade Careers Are Growing in Washington
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Booming Construction | Urban growth and infrastructure projects are fueling demand |
| Green Economy Growth | Strong investment in solar, wind, and energy efficiency |
| Strong Union Presence | Trades are well-organized with solid apprenticeship networks |
“Washington’s trades are the foundation of a resilient, green, and growing economy.” - WA Employment Security Department1
Compare Skilled Trades in Washington
| Trade | Median Salary | Training Time | License Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $74,190 | 6 months – 4 years (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) |
| Construction Worker | $57,720 | 3–12 months (apprenticeship or on-the-job) | Varies (OSHA 10/30; state contractor license for supervisors) |
| Flooring Installer | $56,569 | 6–12 months (on-the-job + coursework) | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) |
| Plumber | $81,030 | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) | Yes (state licensing) |
| Welder | $63,020 | 6–18 months (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (AWS certification preferred) |
| Construction Manager | $155,070 | 2–4 years (degree or field experience) | Varies (contractor license in many states) |
| Home Inspector | $96,140 | 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 | $95,220 | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) | Yes (state licensing) |
| HVAC Technician | $75,660 | 6 months – 2 years (certificate or associate) | Yes (EPA 608 and state licensing) |
| Lineworker | $133,060 | 3–4 years (joint apprenticeship) | Yes (apprenticeship + utility certifications) |
| Solar Installer | $61,630 | 3–12 months (bootcamp or apprenticeship) | Optional (NABCEP certification beneficial) |
| Tower Technician | $79,020 | 3–9 months (tower climbing school + field training) | Yes (OSHA/NRF safety + CPR certifications) |
| Wind Turbine Technician | $75,880 | 1–2 years (associate or technical diploma) | Yes (industry safety certifications) |
| Aircraft Mechanic (A&P) | $98,980 | 18–30 months (Part 147 school or apprenticeship) | Yes (FAA A&P license) |
| Auto Mechanic | $57,270 | 6–12 months (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) |
| Automotive Technician | $57,270 | 9–18 months (advanced diploma or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) |
| CNC Machinist | $66,160 | 9–24 months (certificate or apprenticeship) | Optional (NIMS certification beneficial) |
| Diesel Technician | $77,900 | 1–2 years (associate or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE or OEM certifications) |
| Gunsmith | $98,340 | 6–18 months (certificate or apprenticeship) | Optional (NRA/NSTC credentials beneficial) |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | $81,700 | 6–12 months (trade school or union program) | Optional (CDL required for many roles) |
| Maintenance Technician | $59,160 | 6–12 months (trade school or on-the-job) | Optional (CMRT or OEM certifications) |
| Truck Driver (CDL) | $64,760 | 3–6 months (CDL program) | Yes (CDL Class A or B) |
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | $49,180 | 4–12 weeks (state-approved program) | Yes (state CNA exam) |
| Patient Care Technician | $49,180 | 4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes (CNA license + PCT certification in many hospitals) |
| Hemodialysis Technician | $62,090 | 4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes (state certification or BONENT/CCHT credential) |
| Home Health Aide | $47,730 | 3–6 months (training + competency exam) | Yes in many states (state-approved HHA program) |
| Medical Assistant | $59,290 | 9–12 months (certificate or diploma) | Optional (CMA, RMA, or CCMA) |
| Mental Health Technician | $52,470 | 6–12 months (certificate + clinical experience) | Varies (state registration + employer training) |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | $83,150 | 12–18 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) |
| Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) | $83,150 | 12–18 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) |
| Dental Assistant | $58,090 | 9–18 months (diploma or associate program) | Varies (CDA, RDA, or state license) |
| EKG Technician | $83,790 | 3–9 months (certificate program) | Optional (CET, CCT, or AMCA) |
| Pharmacy Technician | $58,900 | 6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job) | Varies (state license or PTCB/ExCPT) |
| Phlebotomy Technician | $48,880 | 4–6 months (certificate + clinical practice) | Yes in many states (national certification preferred) |
| Radiologic Technologist | $102,090 | 2 years (associate degree) | Yes (ARRT registration + state license) |
| Diagnostic Medical Sonographer | $121,340 | 18–24 months (accredited associate or certificate) | Yes (ARDMS/CCI credential; state license in some areas) |
| Sterile Processing Technician | $58,830 | 6–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes in many states (CRCST or CBSPD certification) |
| Surgical Technologist | $77,270 | 12–24 months (accredited surgical tech program) | Yes in many states (NBSTSA or NCCT certification) |
| Optician | $49,220 | 9–24 months (apprenticeship or associate) | Yes in many states (state license or ABO-NCLE) |
| Medical Billing & Coding Specialist | $62,270 | 9–24 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (CPC, CCA, or CBCS) |
| Medical Office Administrator | $58,100 | 9–18 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (CMAA or CEHRS certification) |
| Occupational Therapy Assistant | $77,590 | 2 years (accredited associate degree) | Yes (state license via NBCOT exam) |
| Physical Therapy Aide | $39,500 | 3–12 months (certificate or employer training) | Optional (on-the-job + certificate programs) |
| Massage Therapist | $87,360 | 9–18 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state license) |
| Personal Trainer | $50,830 | 3–6 months (exam prep + practicum) | Yes (national certification required by many employers) |
| Dog Trainer | $46,420 | 6–12 months (mentorship or certificate) | Optional (industry certifications preferred) |
| Veterinary Assistant | $44,150 | 6–12 months (certificate + hands-on experience) | Optional (AVMA-approved assistant credential) |
| Veterinary Technician | $59,740 | 2 years (associate degree) | Yes (VTNE and state license) |
| Beauty Professional | $59,510 | 9–15 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state cosmetology license) |
| Cosmetologist | $59,510 | 9–18 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state cosmetology license) |
| Esthetician | $79,320 | 4–9 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state esthetics license) |
| Culinary Chef | $50,037 | 1–2 years (culinary school or apprenticeship) | Optional (ServSafe + local food handler permit) |
| Pastry Chef | $50,037 | 9–18 months (baking & pastry diploma or apprenticeship) | Optional (ServSafe; ACF certification boosts prospects) |
| Bookkeeper | $58,620 | 6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job) | Optional (CB or CPB certification beneficial) |
| Digital Court Reporter | $107,670 | 6–12 months (certificate program) | Optional (AAERT certification preferred) |
| Paralegal | $79,400 | 12–24 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (ABA-approved certificate beneficial) |
Source: BLS OEWS, May 2025. State data (Washington).
Washington Apprenticeships and Schools
Washington offers strong apprenticeship programs, public training through community colleges, and career/technical education centers across the state.
| Training Type | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Apprenticeship | 3-5 years | Paid training with union and non-union options |
| Technical Colleges | 6-24 months | Hands-on instruction and state-approved trade certifications |
| Community Colleges | 12-24 months | Associate degrees in construction trades and energy technologies |
“Apprenticeship programs help students earn while they learn with no student debt.” - Washington State L&I Apprenticeship Division2
Trade Schools in Washington
From the Puget Sound to eastern Washington, students have access to trade training via public and private institutions.
Why Attend Trade School in Washington?
| Advantage | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| Strong Wages | Washington’s trades earn well above the national average |
| Green Energy Momentum | Training supports growing solar and energy retrofit sectors |
| Employer Demand | Statewide need for licensed trade professionals |
| Urban & Rural Coverage | Campuses in all counties and metro regions |
| Funding Access | Ask schools about available payment options |
Explore Accredited Schools
Washington Licensing Agencies
| Trade | Licensing Agency |
|---|---|
| Electrician | WA Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) Electrical Program |
| Plumber | WA Department of Labor & Industries (Plumber Certification) |
| HVAC Technician | Specialty or mechanical license required via L&I |
| Solar Installer | May require electrical contractor or journeyman license |
| Mold Inspector | No state license; ACAC or NORMI certifications often preferred |
Washington Trade Career Outlook
Building & Construction Trades
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Plumber | 4.5% |
| Carpenter | 4.5% |
| Welder | 2.2% |
| Construction Worker | 7.3% |
| Flooring Installer | 9.5% |
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% |
| Electrician | 9.5% |
| Tower Technician | 8.6% |
| Wind Turbine Technician | 49.9% |
| HVAC Technician | 8.1% |
| Solar Installer | 42.1% |
Mechanical, Automotive & Transportation
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanic (A&P) | 4.0% |
| Gunsmith | 2.0% |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | 3.6% |
| Diesel Technician | 2.4% |
| CNC Machinist | 0.0% |
| Truck Driver (CDL) | 4.0% |
| 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% |
| 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% |
| EKG Technician | 3.0% |
| Surgical Technologist | 4.5% |
| Pharmacy Technician | 6.4% |
| Sterile Processing Technician | 10.0% |
| Dental Assistant | 6.4% |
| Optician | 2.9% |
| 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) |
|---|---|
| Massage Therapist | 15.4% |
| Occupational Therapy Assistant | 19.2% |
| 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 Washington?
Washington is one of the best states for skilled trade careers, with high pay, strong union support, and a focus on future-ready industries. Whether you’re looking for hands-on training or a clear pathway into green energy or construction, Washington has what you need to succeed.
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
WA Employment Security Department - https://esd.wa.gov ↩︎
WA Department of Labor & Industries - Apprenticeship Division: https://www.lni.wa.gov/licensing-permits/apprenticeship/ ↩︎