Being a contractor has its perks. You create your own hours, determine your rate, and you get to be your own boss. Contractors can specialize in a job and even increase rates as they become more experienced. Like any type of employment, some jobs pay more than others. That’s why it’s good to know which jobs are highest paying before you set out to be a contractor. Contractors make up 36 percent of the workforce in the U.S. and there are good paying jobs available to new workers. You can search online for various high-paying contractor positions.

There are tons of contracting specialties you can choose from depending on your skillset and desired salary. To become a contractor, search online to see what positions are in demand.

Here are some high paying jobs for contractors.

Carpenter

Average Pay: $48,330 with the highest 10 percent earning more than $84,690

Carpenters are hired to construct, erect, install and repair structures made from wood and other materials in the construction industry. To become a carpenter, you complete a three to four year training program and at least 155 hours of paid technical training.Being an apprentice is where you’ll get in-depth experience with blueprint reading, mathematics, building code requirements and other basic carpentry skills. You could do more training, like scaffold building, to diversify your skill set and give you more reason to increase your rates.

Virtual Assistant

Average Pay: $41,369

Being a virtual assistant has a number of benefits. You can work from home, set your own hours and you don’t need a degree. This job involves acting on behalf of companies by placing calls, handling customer service inquiries, scheduling and other digital duties. There is also potential for career growth to higher positions like business managers or executive assistants. Essential skills to possess for this job type are excellent communication and computer knowledge.

Electrician

Average Pay: $56,180 with the highest 10 percent earning more than $96,580

Electricians are experts in designing and fixing lighting systems in all types of buildings. This technical work involves making sure electrical wiring is safe and up to code. You can specialize in a number of different aspects such as designing, installing, or maintaining electrical systems. The four-year training required to be an electrician is followed up by licensing in your designated state. The job front looks good for the long term, with The Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting more than 74,000 positions opening up until 2028.

Delivery Driver

Average Pay: $84,140

If you have a license to drive, why not use that skill to make a living? You can work as an independent delivery driver within industries like construction, retail, freight, driver transfer and rideshare. Those interested in freight transportation and operating vehicles that weigh more than 26,000 pounds will need a commercial driver’s licence. On the simpler end of the spectrum, drivers can deliver food for restaurants or items for retail businesses to customers who order food online from them.

Plumber

Average Pay: $55,160 with the highest 10 percent earning more than $97,170

Everyone relies on plumbing, which is why you’re guaranteed to be a busy contractor by taking up this profession. Plumbers are experts at facilitating water supply from pipes and large fixtures for things like showers, toilets, sinks and bathtubs. It helps a plumber’s professional reputation when they’re good customer service agents and quick problem solvers for client’s needing demanding jobs. Becoming a certified plumber requires completing an apprenticeship at trade school and getting licenced by the state.

Private Tutor

Average Pay: $44,781 but can vary depending on your rate

Those who are patient and comfortable teaching can take up private tutoring for elementary, high school, university and even adult learners. The difference between tutoring and teaching is that you don’t need a certification to work with clients. You can use your knowledge of mathematics, languages, science or other subjects to help students understand their school curriculum.

You can be hired for one-on-one sessions during the school year and also find extra work during test prep season for the ACT or SAT. Salaries can vary depending on what your rate is. Tutors will often charge depending on their level of expertise, how long the sessions are and the amount of demand for your service.

Search Online For High Paying Contractor Jobs

Becoming a contract worker puts you in control. You get to choose your hours, set your rate and have the opportunity to specialize in certain skills that can lead to higher paid work. Plus, there are many contractor positions that don’t require formal education or training.

To learn more about the demand and necessary steps for certain contractor jobs, start an online search. You should also look into whether there are specific certifications you need in order to work legally in your state.