When people think about the construction industry, they usually conjure up images of men work laying down bricks or operating heavy machinery. Although those jobs do exist, they are not the only ones. If you’re a construction worker looking to move up the ladder or simply an independent contractor, the following four jobs may be of interest to you.

Elevator Installers/Repairers

It seems that over the past couple of years, buildings have gotten taller and taller. In fact, some homes are even deciding to move up rather than expand. Thus the need for more elevator installation professionals. These professionals can make up to $85,000 per year, with prices going up as demand grows. In addition to needing someone to install the elevator, companies often keep these professionals on their payroll as a means of ensuring that the elevator is running smoothly all year long. It must be noted that if you’re not someone who likes to work within small spaces, this may not be the route for you.

Construction/Building Inspector

If you have years of experience working within the construction industry, you may be eligible to start a new career as a construction site safety manager or building inspector. The fact is that local and state governments have strict guidelines and laws on just how a construction company should operate. For that, they need someone who understands the environment and can spot legal issues. An inspector is one of the highest-paid positions within a site, with the average salary being $61,000 per year, and thus, most individuals will need a license or other certification to perform the job.

Electrician

There’s no doubt about it; electricians are always on demand because of our reliance on electrical devices. Electricians are usually responsible for planning the electrical wiring of a building, installing those connections, and ensuring they are safe for public use. The good news is that there are a large number of colleges that offer courses where people can become certified electricians.

Welders

Construction sites are like puzzles; all the materials are there; they just need someone to connect them. That is where welders come into the picture. Welders are always going to be needed within the construction industry, and thus the opportunities are there for anyone willing to learn the trait. So, how much does welding pay? Welders can see themselves making anywhere between $55,000 and $70,000 a year.

The construction industry is a huge part of the economy, and thus the opportunity to expand your skills or simply switch career paths are there. Simply research further into the positions listed above to determine the best route for you.