Are you looking for a stable career with good pay that doesn’t require a four-year college degree? Construction trades in South Florida offer exactly that. With the region’s ongoing building boom and shortage of skilled workers, now is the perfect time to start a career in the trades.
This guide will walk you through the most in-demand construction trades in South Florida, what each job involves, how much you can earn, and how to get started with the right training.
Why Choose Construction Trades in South Florida?
South Florida’s construction industry is thriving for several reasons:
- Population Growth: More people moving to the area means more homes, businesses, and infrastructure needed
- Climate Resilience Projects: Upgrading buildings to withstand hurricanes and address flooding
- Aging Infrastructure: Older buildings and systems need repairs and updates
- Worker Shortage: Not enough skilled workers to fill all available positions
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, construction jobs in Florida are growing faster than the national average. This means more job security and better pay for those with the right skills.
Top Construction Trades in South Florida
Building Maintenance Technician
What They Do: Building maintenance technicians are the jack-of-all-trades who keep buildings running smoothly. They handle basic repairs across multiple systems:
- Plumbing fixes
- Basic electrical work
- Air conditioning maintenance
- Drywall and paint touch-ups
- Lock and door repairs
Why It’s Great: This role is perfect for people who enjoy variety in their work. No two days are the same, and you’ll learn skills across multiple trades.
Salary Range: $35,000-$55,000 depending on experience and the type of building you maintain
Job Outlook: Excellent – every building needs maintenance, from hotels to condos to office buildings
The Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) reports that maintenance technicians with diverse skills are among the most difficult positions to fill in property management.
Electrician
What They Do: Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in homes, businesses, and industrial buildings. Their work includes:
- Installing wiring and electrical panels
- Setting up lighting systems
- Troubleshooting electrical problems
- Ensuring systems meet code requirements
- Working with smart home technology
Why It’s Great: Electricians are among the highest-paid trade workers. The work is challenging and requires problem-solving skills.
Salary Range: $45,000-$80,000+ depending on certification level and specialization
Job Outlook: The BLS projects 11% growth for electricians from 2023 to 2033, much faster than average
HVAC Technician
What They Do: HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) technicians install and repair climate control systems. In Florida, the focus is heavily on cooling systems:
- Installing air conditioning units
- Performing maintenance to keep systems running efficiently
- Diagnosing and repairing problems
- Working with refrigerants
- Installing ventilation systems
Why It’s Great: In Florida’s hot climate, HVAC technicians are always in demand. The work combines technical knowledge with hands-on skills.
Salary Range: $40,000-$75,000 depending on experience and certifications
Job Outlook: Strong growth projected, with about 42,500 job openings annually nationwide
According to Energy Star, the demand for energy-efficient HVAC systems is creating additional opportunities for technicians with the right training.
Plumber
What They Do: Plumbers install and repair water, drainage, and gas systems in homes and buildings:
- Installing pipes and fixtures
- Repairing leaks
- Unclogging drains
- Installing water heaters
- Working on irrigation systems
Why It’s Great: Plumbing skills are always needed, and the work can’t be outsourced or automated.
Salary Range: $40,000-$70,000 depending on experience and certification
Job Outlook: Steady demand, especially with Florida’s aging infrastructure
The Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association notes that Florida’s climate and growing population create consistent demand for qualified plumbers.
How to Start Your Construction Trades Career
Step 1: Choose Your Trade
Consider these factors when picking a trade:
- What kind of work interests you most?
- Do you prefer indoor or outdoor work?
- Are you looking for the highest pay or the quickest entry into the workforce?
- Do you want to work independently or as part of a team?
Step 2: Get the Right Training
While some people learn trades through apprenticeships alone, formal training programs offer advantages:
- Faster skill development
- Structured learning covering all aspects of the trade
- Preparation for certification exams
- Better job prospects with recognized credentials
CBT School’s Basic Building Trades and Maintenance (BBTM) program is an excellent starting point for anyone interested in construction trades. This program teaches fundamental skills across multiple trades, allowing you to:
- Discover which specific trade you might want to specialize in
- Gain immediately employable skills
- Build a foundation for advanced training
- Enter the workforce quickly
Step 3: Earn Certifications
Depending on your chosen trade, you’ll need specific certifications:
For Building Maintenance: While not always required, certifications in specific skills like EPA 608 (for handling refrigerants) can increase your employability
For Electricians: You’ll progress through apprentice to journeyman to master electrician licenses, each requiring specific training and exams
For HVAC: EPA 608 certification is required for handling refrigerants, plus optional but valuable certifications from organizations like NATE (North American Technician Excellence)
For Plumbers: Similar to electricians, you’ll progress through apprentice, journeyman, and master plumber licenses
The National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) provides industry-recognized credentials that can help advance your career in any construction trade.
Step 4: Gain Experience
While in training, look for opportunities to gain hands-on experience:
- Part-time helper positions
- Internships
- Volunteer work with organizations like Habitat for Humanity
- Assisting licensed professionals
Step 5: Advance Your Career
Once established in your trade, you can advance your career by:
- Earning advanced certifications
- Specializing in high-demand areas
- Moving into supervisory roles
- Starting your own business
Career Paths and Advancement
Building Maintenance Career Path
- Entry Level: Maintenance Helper or Assistant
- Mid-Level: Building Maintenance Technician
- Advanced: Lead Maintenance Technician or Facilities Manager
- Expert: Property Operations Manager or Facilities Director
The International Facility Management Association (IFMA) reports that many facilities managers started their careers in maintenance positions.
Electrician Career Path
- Entry Level: Electrician Helper or Apprentice
- Mid-Level: Journeyman Electrician
- Advanced: Master Electrician
- Expert: Electrical Contractor or Project Manager
According to the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA), electricians with specialized skills in renewable energy systems are seeing particularly strong demand.
HVAC Career Path
- Entry Level: HVAC Helper or Apprentice
- Mid-Level: HVAC Technician
- Advanced: HVAC Specialist or System Designer
- Expert: HVAC Contractor or Project Manager
The Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) notes that HVAC technicians with knowledge of smart home technology and energy efficiency are in particularly high demand.
Plumber Career Path
- Entry Level: Plumber’s Helper or Apprentice
- Mid-Level: Journeyman Plumber
- Advanced: Master Plumber
- Expert: Plumbing Contractor or Project Manager
South Florida’s Construction Job Market
The construction job market in South Florida has some unique characteristics:
Geographic Hotspots
- Miami-Dade County: Highest concentration of high-rise construction and luxury renovations
- Broward County: Strong residential and commercial development
- Palm Beach County: Mix of new construction and renovation of older properties
According to the Miami Association of Realtors, construction activity remains strong across all three counties, creating consistent demand for skilled trades workers.
Industry Sectors
- Residential: Condominiums, single-family homes, and apartment complexes
- Commercial: Office buildings, retail spaces, and hotels
- Institutional: Schools, hospitals, and government buildings
- Industrial: Warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and distribution centers
The Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) reports that South Florida’s commercial construction sector is experiencing particularly strong growth.
Seasonal Considerations
While construction in South Florida happens year-round, be aware of:
- Hurricane season (June-November) can affect outdoor work schedules
- Peak tourist season (December-April) often increases demand for quick repairs and renovations in hospitality settings
Benefits of Trade Careers vs. Traditional College
Financial Benefits
- Lower Education Costs: Trade school typically costs much less than a four-year college degree
- Earn While You Learn: Many trades allow you to work and earn money while completing your education
- Less Student Debt: Lower education costs mean less debt to pay off
- Faster Entry to Workforce: Start earning a full salary in 1–2 years instead of 4+ years
Research from the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce shows that many trade careers offer better financial returns than some four-year degrees.
Lifestyle Benefits
- Job Security: Essential trades can’t be outsourced or easily automated
- Work Anywhere: Skills are transferable to any location
- Visible Results: See the tangible results of your work each day
- Physical Activity: Active work rather than sitting at a desk all day
How to Choose the Right Training Program
When evaluating trade schools and training programs, consider:
Program Quality Factors
- Accreditation: Is the school recognized by relevant industry organizations?
- Instructor Experience: Do instructors have real-world experience in the trades they teach?
- Hands-On Training: How much of the program involves actual practice versus classroom theory?
- Modern Equipment: Does the school have up-to-date tools and technology?
- Job Placement: Does the school help graduates find employment?
The Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) provides accreditation for quality trade and technical schools.
CBT School Advantage
CBT School offers several advantages for those entering construction trades:
- Multiple South Florida Locations: Convenient access from throughout the region
- Experienced Instructors: Learn from professionals with real-world experience
- Hands-On Training: Practical skills development in addition to classroom learning
- Job Placement Assistance: Help finding employment after program completion
- Flexible Scheduling: Options for working adults and those with family responsibilities
Getting Started at CBT School
Ready to start your construction trades career? Here’s how to begin:
- Explore Programs: Review the Basic Building Trades and Maintenance program details
- Visit a Campus: See the training facilities and meet instructors
- Speak with Admissions: Get answers to your specific questions
- Apply: Complete the simple application process
- Financial Planning: Explore payment options and potential assistance
- Start Learning: Begin your journey to a rewarding career in the trades
Conclusion
South Florida’s construction industry offers excellent opportunities for those seeking stable, well-paying careers without a four-year degree. With the right training and certification, you can build a successful future in the trades.
The Basic Building Trades and Maintenance program at CBT School provides the perfect foundation for starting your career journey. Whether you’re just beginning your working life or looking for a career change, the construction trades offer a path to success.
Ready to Learn More?
Fill out the information request form or call CBT School today to speak with an admissions advisor about the Basic Building Trades and Maintenance program. Your new career in the construction trades is waiting!