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Building Trades Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

City of Fairfax

Combination Inspector

Fairfax, VA

$66K - $105K/yr

Three to five years of experience in the building trades as a contractor, foreman, or inspector; or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the following necessary ...

City of Fairfax, VA

Combination Inspector

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$66K - $105K/yr

Three to five years of experience in the building trades as a contractor, foreman, or inspector; or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the following necessary ...

GAP SOLUTIONS INC

Building Manager (50424)

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

The candidate will work closely with scientific and administrative occupants, facilities maintenance teams, external building-trade contractors, and various service providers to lead holistic ...

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Showing results 21-40

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Building Trades information

See Washington salary details

$17

$28

$40

How much do building trades jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for building trades in Washington is $28.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.34 and $31.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are building trades?

Building trades refer to a group of skilled occupations involved in the construction, repair, and maintenance of buildings and other structures. This includes jobs such as carpenters, electricians, plumbers, bricklayers, painters, and HVAC technicians. Workers in the building trades use specialized tools and techniques to ensure structures are safe, functional, and meet building codes. These trades often require apprenticeships or vocational training, and they play a crucial role in both residential and commercial construction projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the building trades, and why are they important?

To thrive in the Building Trades, you need practical skills in construction, carpentry, plumbing, or electrical work, often supported by a high school diploma, apprenticeship, or trade certification. Familiarity with power tools, construction blueprints, safety protocols, and systems like OSHA regulations is crucial. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help professionals coordinate effectively on job sites and adapt to changing project needs. These abilities ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality completion of construction projects.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in the building trades, and how are they typically addressed?

Professionals in the building trades often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, maintaining consistent safety standards, and adapting to tight project deadlines. These challenges are typically addressed through comprehensive safety training, the use of protective equipment, and strong communication within teams to coordinate tasks efficiently. Many employers also provide ongoing skills development and encourage collaboration between different trades to ensure that projects run smoothly and safely.

What is the difference between Building Trades vs Electrician?

AspectBuilding TradesElectrician
Credentials/CertificationsVaries by specialization; often includes apprenticeships and trade licensesRequires electrical licenses, apprenticeships, and certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, renovation projects, commercial and residential buildingsElectrical systems in buildings, industrial facilities, maintenance settings
Employer & Industry UsageGeneral construction companies, contractors, unionsElectrical contractors, maintenance firms, industrial plants
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding trade roles, career paths, certificationsElectrical work specifics, licensing, job duties

Building Trades is a broad category encompassing various construction-related roles, while Electrician focuses specifically on electrical systems. Electricians often require specialized licenses and certifications, and their work environment is primarily electrical installations and repairs. Both roles are integral to construction and maintenance industries, but Electrician is more specialized within the Building Trades sector.

What are the most commonly searched types of Building Trades jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Building Trades jobs in Washington are:

Building Trades jobs near you
Infographic showing various Building Trades job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,194 per year, or $28.5 per hour.

M26/27 BUILDING OPERATING ENGINEER (GUNSTON)

Arlington Public Schools

Arlington, VA

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Human Resources announces an opening for a 1.0 Building Operating Engineer, M-13 located at Gunston Middle School. MINIMUM EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:  Graduation from high school, and completion of a formal apprenticeship training in one or more of the building trades, and extensive experience in HVAC and general maintenance or repair work; or any equivalent combination of education and experience that would provide the above noted knowledge, skill, and ability.  LICENSE/CERTIFICATION:  Journey License in HVAC, plumbing or electricity (Masters in one preferred); Possession of an appropriate, valid vehicle operator's license; Must be CFC certified.  NOTE:  All APS employees authorized to drive APS vehicles are subject to either the Omnibus Transpiration Act drug or alcohol testing procedures (if required to possess CDL) OR THE APS Alcohol and Drug testing procedures (if CDL is not required).

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:  Comprehensive knowledge of the methods, materials, tools and practices used in HVAC, plumbing, electrical, general maintenance, and computerized energy management procedures and components.  Must posses and maintain thorough knowledge of new technologies related to job responsibilities.  Ability to interpret and follow the BOCA Mechanical Codes and Arlington County ordinances for proper installation and/or repair of mechanical equipment.  Ability to interpret and utilize blueprints and schematics, wiring codes.  Ability to observe general building conditions in order to trouble-shoot and repair mechanical systems.  Ability to follow written and oral instructions, diagrams, blueprints, schematics (mechanical, electrical and electronic) and manufacturer's manuals, Ability to estimate time and materials needed for small jobs and to perform routine record keeping tasks, written reports and mathematical computations.  Ability to inspect, diagnose problems and make repairs or request appropriate support personnel from APS in HVAC, plumbing, electrical systems, and other services.  Ability to work cooperatively with school professional and custodial staff and maintenance personnel.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE CLASS (May not include all duties performed; not all incumbents perform all essential functions delineated.)  Adjusts, services, repairs, and performs preventative maintenance and filter replacement on all HVAC equipment to ensure optimum efficiency of operation along with Energy Management personnel.  Schedules, and conducts inspections of gauges, meters, controls, and equipment (e.g., HVAC systems) to ensure all units are operating properly and prepares inspection and other reports.  Inspects and supervises or performs routine preventative maintenance on and minor repairs to plumbing and electrical systems; oversees or performs minor carpentry and related repairs.  Operates and maintains field related hand and power tools, able to use ladders and scaffolding, and lift heavy items.  Assists in the orientation and training of professional and custodial staff in the operation of mechanical equipment; performs or assists in emergency repairs as required.

Salary range based on FY26-27 Pay Plan.

Arlington Public Schools is an Equal Opportunity Employer

It is the policy of the Arlington School Board, as stated in Policy G-2.30, Employee Relations - Equal Employment Opportunity - that "Employment opportunities shall not be restricted, abridged or otherwise adversely affected on the basis of race, national origin, creed, color, religion, gender, age, economic status, sexual orientation, national origin, marital status, genetic information, gender identity or expression, and/or disability.

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