Electricians, Plumbers, Carpenters, Welders & More — Salaries, Demand & Visa Sponsorship

America’s construction industry is hiring skilled tradespeople from around the world—and paying top dollar to get them. Whether you’re an electrician, plumber, carpenter, welder, or HVAC technician, U.S. employers are offering visa sponsorship, $48,000–$120,000 salaries, and relocation bonuses up to $60,000. This guide breaks down opportunities by trade, showing exactly what each profession can earn and where demand is highest.

⚡ Electrician

Salary: $55,000 – $80,000 | Demand: VERY HIGH

Electricians are among the most sought-after trades in American construction. Every building—residential, commercial, industrial—needs electrical systems installed and maintained.

• What you’ll do: Install wiring, lighting, control systems; maintain electrical infrastructure
• Hot locations: Texas, California, Florida, Arizona
• Requirements: 2-5 years experience, electrical license preferred
• Visa options: H-2B (temporary), EB-3 (permanent)

🔧 Plumber

Salary: $50,000 – $75,000 | Demand: VERY HIGH

Plumbers install and repair water, gas, and drainage systems—essential for every construction project. Experienced plumbers are in short supply nationwide.

• What you’ll do: Install piping, fixtures, water heaters; ensure code compliance
• Hot locations: Florida, Texas, Nevada, Colorado
• Requirements: 2-5 years experience, plumbing certification
• Visa options: H-2B, EB-3

🪚 Carpenter

Salary: $48,000 – $70,000 | Demand: HIGH

Carpenters build the structural framework for buildings, install fixtures, and create finished woodwork. The residential housing boom has created massive demand.

• What you’ll do: Frame buildings, install doors/windows, build stairs, finish trim work
• Hot locations: Texas, Florida, Arizona, North Carolina
• Requirements: 2-5 years experience, ability to read blueprints
• Visa options: H-2B, EB-3

🔥 Welder

Salary: $45,000 – $75,000 | Demand: HIGH

Welders join metal components for structures, pipelines, and machinery. Infrastructure projects and industrial construction drive strong demand.

• What you’ll do: MIG, TIG, stick welding; fabricate structural steel; read welding blueprints
• Hot locations: Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania
• Requirements: 2-5 years experience, AWS certification preferred
• Visa options: H-2B, EB-3

❄️ HVAC Technician

Salary: $50,000 – $78,000 | Demand: VERY HIGH

HVAC technicians install and maintain heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Climate control is essential in American buildings.

• What you’ll do: Install AC units, furnaces, ductwork; diagnose and repair systems
• Hot locations: Florida, Arizona, Texas, Nevada (hot climates = high AC demand)
• Requirements: 2-5 years experience, EPA 608 certification preferred
• Visa options: H-2B, EB-3

👷 Construction Manager

Salary: $80,000 – $120,000 | Demand: HIGH

Construction managers oversee entire projects from planning to completion, coordinating teams, budgets, and timelines.

• What you’ll do: Plan projects, manage teams, control budgets, ensure safety compliance
• Requirements: 5+ years experience, degree preferred, PMP certification valuable
• Visa options: H-1B (with degree), EB-3

📐 Project Engineer

Salary: $98,000 – $168,000 | Demand: HIGH

Project engineers design infrastructure, manage technical aspects of construction, and ensure structural integrity.

• What you’ll do: Design structures, oversee technical execution, mentor teams
• Requirements: Bachelor’s in engineering, PE license valuable
• Visa options: H-1B (primary), EB-2

How to Get Hired

1. Build your profile: Update resume with certifications, years of experience, specific skills
2. Search for sponsors: LinkedIn, Indeed for ‘construction visa sponsorship’ + your trade
3. Target big employers: Bechtel, Fluor, Turner, Kiewit, Skanska known for sponsorship
4. Get certified: OSHA 10/30, trade licenses, AWS (welding) boost applications
5. Negotiate relocation: Ask about $20K–$60K bonuses for moving and settling costs

Your Trade, Your Future

Whatever your construction specialty, America has opportunities waiting. The labor shortage is real, the pay is excellent, and employers are willing to sponsor your visa and help you relocate. Find your trade above, target sponsoring employers, and build your American career.

Skills in demand. Salaries are high. Your move.