Create articles from any YouTube video or use our API to get YouTube transcriptions
Start for freeIntroduction
When it comes to trade jobs, most people think of well-known professions like plumbing or HVAC. But there's a whole world of high-paying trade jobs that fly under the radar. In this article, we'll explore 8 hidden trades that can lead to substantial incomes and how you can leverage these opportunities.
The path to financial success in these trades follows a three-step process:
- Learn
- Earn
- Own
We'll examine each trade from these three perspectives, showing how you can progress from an employee to a business owner, potentially earning millions.
1. Septic Truck Owner
The Business
Septic truck owners operate vehicles that pump out septic tanks. This essential service is in high demand, with many companies struggling to keep up with business.
Earnings Potential
- Employee: $65,000 - $150,000 per year
- Owner-Operator: $400,000 - $600,000 per year
- Business Owner (with multiple trucks): Potential for millions
Key Insights
- Average cost per septic tank: $700 - $900
- Higher rates for same-day or after-hours service
- Average 4-6 jobs per day
- Potential for 7-day operation
Revenue Breakdown
- 5 tanks per day at $700 each = $3,500 daily
- $3,500 x 7 days x 52 weeks = $1,274,000 annual revenue
Expenses
- Waste disposal: $1,000 per day
- Fuel: $200 per day
- Insurance: $200 per day
- Total annual expenses: $436,000
Net Profit
$400,000 - $600,000 per year
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High demand
- Potential for additional services (e.g., grease trap cleaning for restaurants)
- Opportunity to expand into porta-potty rentals
Cons:
- Seasonal fluctuations in some areas
- High vehicle and maintenance costs
2. Basement Waterproofing Technician
The Business
Basement waterproofing technicians prevent water damage in basements, a crucial service for homeowners.
Earnings Potential
- Average job cost: $4,500
- Average daily rate: $2,200
- Potential annual revenue (6-day work week): $686,000
Expenses
- Materials: $300 per day
- Fuel: $100 per day
- Equipment maintenance and insurance: $200 per day
- Total annual expenses: $187,000
Net Profit
$300,000 - $400,000 per year
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Increased demand during rainy seasons
- Opportunity for add-on services
Cons:
- Custom quotes required for each job
- Variable job complexity
3. Diesel Technician
The Business
Diesel technicians provide maintenance and repair services for natural gas or diesel engines and compressors, often used in construction and other industries.
Earnings Potential
- Average daily rate: $2,500
- Potential annual revenue (5-day work week): $650,000
Scaling Potential
- Hire technicians at $80,000 per year
- Cover fuel and maintenance costs
- Potential for multi-million dollar business
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High demand in construction-heavy areas
- Growing industry (8% per year)
- Diverse work environments (garages, dealerships, airports)
Cons:
- Shortage of skilled technicians
- Potential safety hazards
- Physically demanding work
4. Boilermaker
The Business
Boilermakers assemble and maintain boilers and other large vessels that hold gases and liquids.
Earnings Potential
- Median annual salary: $71,000
- Top earners: Up to $150,000
- Hourly rate: $75 - $200
- Per job revenue: $7,000 - $10,000
Revenue Calculation
- 2 jobs per week at $7,000 each = $14,000 weekly
- $14,000 x 52 weeks = $728,000 annual revenue
Net Profit
$400,000 - $800,000 per year
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High earning potential
- Opportunity to specialize in high-end boilers
Cons:
- Requires extensive travel
- Transactional nature of work
5. Millwright
The Business
Millwrights work on dismantling, reassembling, and calibrating machinery in factories and plants.
Earnings Potential
- Annual salary range: $60,000 - $130,000
- Industry growth rate: 8% per year
Owner-Operator Financials
- Annual revenue: $280,000
- Annual expenses: $50,000 (insurance, materials, equipment maintenance, transportation)
- Net profit: $150,000
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High demand in construction and manufacturing
- Diverse work opportunities
Cons:
- Requires a wide range of tools
- High startup costs
- Difficulty finding skilled labor
6. Elevator Technician
The Business
Elevator technicians install, maintain, and repair elevators in buildings.
Earnings Potential
- Average salary: $97,000
- Top earners: $130,000 - $200,000+
Owner-Operator Financials
- Startup costs: $50,000 (equipment, insurance, business setup)
- Annual revenue potential: $200,000 - $400,000
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Low startup costs compared to other trades
- High customer retention rates
- Predictable income streams
- Recession-resistant business
Cons:
- High liability
- Expensive insurance premiums
- Requires multiple licenses and certifications
7. Street and Parking Lot Light Maintenance
The Business
Maintaining and repairing street lights and parking lot lighting systems.
Earnings Potential
- Light bulb replacement: $25 - $700 per bulb
- Potential daily revenue: $800 - $1,000
- Annual revenue potential: $280,000 - $2,000,000+
Expenses
- Truck maintenance and insurance
- Labor costs (if hiring)
- Equipment and storage
Net Profit
30-50% profit margin: $150,000 - $1,000,000 per year
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High demand for services
- Potential for large government contracts
- Recurring revenue from maintenance contracts
Cons:
- High equipment and insurance costs
- Requires specialized knowledge of lighting systems
Conclusion
These hidden trade jobs offer incredible opportunities for those willing to learn and work hard. From septic truck operations to street light maintenance, each of these trades provides a path to substantial earnings and the potential to build a thriving business.
The key to success in these fields is to follow the three-step process:
- Learn the trade thoroughly
- Earn experience and build your reputation
- Own your own business and scale it
By focusing on these lesser-known trades, you can tap into markets with high demand and less competition. Whether you're looking for a career change or an entrepreneurial opportunity, these hidden trades offer a promising future.
Remember, these jobs not only have the potential to change your life financially but also play a crucial role in maintaining and improving our communities. They represent the backbone of our infrastructure and daily comfort.
As you consider these opportunities, think about which trade aligns best with your skills and interests. Each has its own unique challenges and rewards, so it's important to do thorough research and possibly gain some hands-on experience before fully committing.
Finally, keep in mind that success in any of these trades requires dedication, continuous learning, and excellent customer service. As you build your skills and reputation, you'll find that the potential for growth is substantial.
Which of these hidden trades intrigues you the most? Are there any other lesser-known trades you think should be on this list? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below, and let's continue to uncover and discuss these valuable career opportunities.
Article created from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cdmKkrnFKWg
