What is the Highest Paying Construction Job?
If you’re exploring construction careers and wondering what the highest-paying construction jobs are, you’re asking the right question. The construction industry offers exceptional earning potential across multiple specializations, with some roles commanding six-figure salaries.
The highest-paying construction job is construction manager, with an average salary of $107,000 annually, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Other top-earning positions in construction include civil engineers ($65,000-$160,000), and construction executives ($105,000).
Construction Manager: Top Earner
Construction managers oversee entire projects from planning through completion, handling budgets, schedules, subcontractors, and workforce coordination. This highest paying construction job typically requires a bachelor’s degree in construction management or engineering, though many advance from skilled trades through hands-on experience. The salary ranges well into the six figures, with senior managers in commercial and infrastructure industries earning substantially more.
Other High-Paying Construction Careers
Civil Engineers ($65,000-$160,000 salary): Civil engineers design and supervise infrastructure projects including roads, bridges, and water systems. This role requires a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and offers stable, well-compensated career opportunities.
Construction Executives ($105,000 salary): Strategic leaders overseeing construction firm operations, vendor relationships, and business development. Extensive industry experience drives advancement into these executive-level positions.
Skilled Trades: Plumbers ($40,000-$105,000 salary), electricians ($62,350 median salary), and boilermakers ($73,000-$107,000 salary) all offer strong earning potential through apprenticeships and licensing—no four-year degree required.
Geographic Impact on Salary
Location significantly affects the salary for even the highest paying construction jobs. Hawaii, Illinois, Massachusetts, California, Oregon, and Washington offer the highest compensation due to cost of living, union presence, and prevailing wage laws. Construction managers in data center, manufacturing, and heavy civil sectors earn 10-15% more than residential construction managers.
Path to High Earnings
Most of the highest paying construction jobs follow a clear advancement pattern: start in entry-level or skilled trade positions, gain hands-on experience and specialized expertise, pursue relevant certifications and licenses, and advance into supervisory or technical specialist roles.
Entry-level workers earn around $58,360, skilled tradespeople with experience earn $60,000-$80,000, and supervisory and specialized roles command $80,000-$130,000+. The salary trajectory rewards skill development and experience over time.
Ready to explore high-earning construction careers? Contact NCW today to connect with construction opportunities offering competitive salaries, comprehensive training, and clear paths to the highest paying construction jobs in 2026.