With the onslaught of AI, many workers are looking for new positions, often moving in entirely different career directions. This is happening with emerging careers that didn’t exist five years ago. Plus, laid-off tech employees are finding new jobs in surprising sectors, making six-figure salaries–more money than they made in their tech positions. Now, a new study identifies ten of the highest-paying in-demand green construction jobs in 2025 like solar installer and other renewable energy skills that do not require four-year degrees.

In-Demand Green Construction Jobs

A large number of the high-salary positions are emerging as the construction industry makes a strong comeback in 2025, with green and renewable energy roles leading the way. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, new projects in this sector will rise by 8.5% and must fill an estimated 439,000 jobs this year alone to keep up with the rapid expansion. Analysts at EPD, a leading aftermarket parts provider for construction and industrial machinery, envisioned a need for more workers because of new construction growth at break neck speed.

They assessed data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics to uncover the fastest-growing jobs in the construction industry and those set to make the most money in the coming year. Their analysis unveils the top in-demand construction jobs for 2025 and beyond, ranked by projected growth, with green energy positions leading the way.

1. Solar PV Installers ($48,00) 48% projected growth and 12,000 new jobs by 2033

2. Electricians ($61,590) 11% new projected growth and 84,300 new jobs by 2033

3. Construction laborers ($44,310) seven percent projected growth and 119,400 new jobs by 2033

4. Plumbers ($61,550) six percent projected growth and 26,300 new jobs by 2033

5. Roofers ($50,030) six percent projected growth and 9,800 new jobs by 2033

6. Elevator & Escalator Installers ($102,420) six percent projected growth and 1,400 new jobs by 2033

7. Flooring Installers ($48,690) six percent projected growth and 7,500 new jobs by 2033

8. Carpenters ($56,350) four percent projected growth and 38,600 new jobs by 2033

9. Equipment Operators ($55,270) four percent projected growth and 21,500 new jobs by 2033

10. Glaziers ($51,100) four percent growth and 2,100 new jobs by 2033

The study reported that solar PV installer jobs are expected to have the highest rate of growth through 2033 at 48%, with the most jobs being added in California, Texas and Florida. They speculate that the growth rate is likely attributed to an increasing demand for green building materials, the market share for which is projected to grow by 12.7% annually through 2030. In addition to a high growth rate, they estimate that solar panel installers earn a median salary of $48,000 per year, slightly more than the median salary of all construction workers ($45,300).

Electrician jobs are also expected to see a considerable increase in the coming years, according to the findings, showing an annual growth rate of 11% through 2033. They attribute the demand for electricians to the push for renewable energy, as federal and state incentives for clean energy projects have led to a surge in demand for electricians skilled in installing and maintaining wind turbines, battery storage systems and other green energy solutions. The median salary for electricians is $61,590, well over the median salary for all construction workers.

New jobs for construction laborers–tasked with using, supplying or holding materials or tools and cleaning work areas and equipment on construction sites–are expected to increase by nearly 120,000 by 2033, with an annual growth rate of seven percent. Since laborers make up the bulk of the construction industry, they project that the demand for new jobs are tied to increase in construction projects, with contributing factors including a growing population, urbanization, government infrastructure projects and a need for housing development. Despite this increase in demand, they point out that construction laborers earn a median salary of just $44,310, which is below the average salary of all construction workers.

As new construction projects—particularly those in green construction and renewable energy—take shape in 2025, the demand for skilled workers in jobs like solar PV installers and electricians is expected to surge. This increasing demand creates a wealth of opportunities for workers looking to enter the construction industry in professions with bright career outlooks.

A Final Takeaway On In-Demand Green Construction Jobs

I spoke by email with Calum Mair, commercial director of North America for EPD. He told me it was encouraging to see the construction industry–especially green construction and renewable energy projects–bounce back and drive the demand for new jobs in the industry. “With over 400,000 new jobs needing to be filled this year alone, it’s more important than ever before for construction firms to attract and retain workers,” he told me. “The labor challenges are not expected to improve in the medium term–this is exacerbated by current and proposed immigration policies, an aging workforce and generally attracting young people into the construction space.”

Mair adds that upskilling and training are critical to meet demands. “We need to create an environment that encourages the next generation to want to enter the construction industry–better benefits, on the job training career progression,” he explains. “Additionally, we need to work closer with high schools, community colleges, universities, etc. and encourage people to enter an industry that ultimately builds our civic fabric. Good people will continue to be a scarcity, if you can grow your talent within, do it.Mair states that if you’re looking to enter or progress in the construction space, you’re in luck because there’s a high demand for skilled labor across various roles, and companies are competing for workers.

“Those entering the industry with the right skills and work ethic can quickly secure stable, well-paying jobs,” he points out. “The construction industry offers diverse career opportunities, but success requires a strong work ethic, hands-on experience and a commitment to safety.”

Mair believes that building technical skills, understanding project management and staying updated on industry advancements can help with career growth within the in-demand green construction jobs sector. And he advises that you network with industry peers and consider specialization if you want to open doors to better opportunities. He concludes that with dedication and continuous learning, individuals can advance into leadership positions or even start their own businesses.