Why Vermont trade wages are up
Three forces are pushing Vermont trade wages higher: reshored manufacturing demanding more in-house maintenance, a wave of skilled-trade retirements with too few apprentices, and competition from construction backlogs across New England. The result is a market where qualified tradespeople can name their price.
The list
- Industrial electricians: $34–42/hr
- HVAC service technicians (commercial): $32–40/hr
- Maintenance technicians (multi-craft): $30–38/hr
- TIG welders (stainless, aluminum): $30–38/hr
- Plumbers (commercial / industrial): $30–38/hr
- Machinists (Swiss-style, complex parts): $28–36/hr
- MIG welders (structural): $28–34/hr
- Pipefitters: $28–34/hr
- Diesel mechanics: $26–32/hr
- Commercial drivers (Class A, local): $26–32/hr
Top of every range assumes 5+ years experience, all relevant certifications, and a clean record. Bottom of the range is realistic for someone with 1–2 years experience or working toward certifications.
Where the demand is concentrated
Chittenden County (Burlington, Williston, Essex Junction, S. Burlington) for industrial electrical, maintenance, and CNC. Rutland County for welding, fabrication, and aerospace machining. Statewide for HVAC and plumbing — these are mobile trades and there's a shortage everywhere.
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