Interested in pursuing a trade career after high school? Check out the top 10 trade jobs right now!

Dental Assistant

Average time in school: 1-2 years

Median pay in 2022: $44,820

Dental assistants are often the first person you interact with when entering a dentist’s office. They prepare the patient before the dentist or dental hygienist arrives, including preparing patient rooms, processing x-rays, and preparing medical instruments and equipment. Dental assistants also schedule follow-up appointments and handle billing and payment.

Medical Assistant

Average time in school: 9 months-2 years

Median pay in 2022: $38,270

Medical assistants record patient vitals (body temperature, blood pressure) and prepare patient rooms. They also have administrative responsibilities, like gathering the patient’s medical history, scheduling appointments, and preparing insurance paperwork.

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

Average time in school: 4-12 weeks

Median pay in 2022: $35,740

CNAs assist patients with their daily activities such as hygiene and grooming. They record vitals, help feed and dress patients, and adjust patient beds and rooms. 

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Average time in school: 1-2 years

Median pay in 2022: $54,620

LPNs provide patient care under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN) and/or doctor. They record patient medical histories and vitals. They can also give patients intravenous medication (IVs).

Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and Paramedic

Average time in school: 6 months-2 years

Median pay in 2022: $39,410

EMTs and paramedics respond to medical emergencies. They examine a patient’s injuries at the scene of an emergency and while taking patients by ambulance to the hospital. They also operate medical instruments and give patients medication in a fast-paced environment. 

Medical Records Specialist

Average time in school: 2 years

Median pay in 2022: $47,180

Medical records specialists process and maintain healthcare paperwork. They do data entry of patient/treatment records and monitor activity in the office. They also work with insurance companies to report the patient’s medical conditions and treatments. 

Electrician

Average time in school: 9 months-2 years

Median pay in 2022: $60,240

Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems and products that are used in homes, businesses, and factories. They repair or replace wiring, equipment, or fixtures and identify any electrical problems. Electricians can also work with construction workers, engineers, and architects to help design electrical systems for new buildings. 

Barber, Hairstylist, and Cosmetologist

Average time in school: 6 months-2 years

Median pay in 2022: $33,400

Barbers, hairdressers, and cosmetologists shampoo, cut, and color hair. They can also apply makeup or provide nail and skincare services. They work mostly in barber shops or salons, advising clients on how to care for their hair, skin, and nails at home. 

Manicurist and Pedicurist

Average time in school: 3-9 months

Median pay in 2022: $31,130

Manicurists and pedicurists clean, shape, and polish nails. They clean the equipment and tools used (like nail files, nail clippers, and foot baths) and teach clients about how to care for their nails at home. They also schedule appointments and sell nail care products.

Massage Therapist

Average time in school: 5-12 months

Median pay in 2022: $49,860

Massage therapists give therapy treatments to relieve pain, rehabilitate injuries, and reduce stress. They interview clients on their medical history and document their progress. They also give clients guidance on proper stretching and improving posture. 

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