Quick Answer: Blue Collar Jobs in Saint Louis, MO (2027 Update)
Last updated: October 27, 2026
Saint Louis blue collar work depends on local licensing. Missouri has no statewide plumbing, HVAC or mechanical contractor license, so St. Louis City, St. Louis County and St. Charles County set their own rules for electricians, plumbers and HVAC contractors. Nationally, BLS reports a $63,800 median wage for plumbers and $63,190 for electricians. Create one free profile so Saint Louis employers can find you.
Which trades are hiring in Saint Louis?
Electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians and construction laborers work across the city, the county and the suburbs. Missouri lists electricians, plumbers and pipefitters, and construction laborers among its high demand occupations in state workforce planning.
What blue collar jobs pay in Saint Louis
| Trade | National median pay, May 2025 | Growth, 2025 to 2035 |
|---|---|---|
| Plumbers, pipefitters and steamfitters | $63,800 | 6.8% |
| Electricians | $63,190 | 9.2% |
| HVAC mechanics and installers | $61,010 | 10.9% |
| Carpenters | $60,580 | 3.9% |
These are national BLS figures. Find metro level pay in BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics.
Licensing in Saint Louis and Missouri
Licensing in Missouri is local. According to Contractor License Requirements, Missouri has no state HVAC credential, and the St. Louis Building Division and St. Louis County Public Works each handle their own registrations. St. Charles County requires licenses for electricians, plumbers and mechanical contractors before permit work. Confirm the rules for your city with your state licensing board.
Where the work is across the metro
Work splits across St. Louis City, St. Louis County and St. Charles County, and your license may need to cover each jurisdiction where you take permit work. Find paid training at Apprenticeship.gov.
Hiring blue collar workers in Saint Louis
Employers can post a job and see pricing.
Browse electrician jobs, HVAC jobs and plumbing jobs, or create a free profile. Employers can post a job or see pricing. For pay comparisons, read electrician vs plumber vs HVAC pay and trade apprenticeships that pay you to learn. For training, see the Virtual Trade School.
Frequently asked questions
Does Missouri have a statewide HVAC license?
No. Missouri has no statewide HVAC or mechanical contractor license, and cities and counties set their own requirements.
Do plumbers and electricians need a license in Saint Louis?
Yes where local rules require it. Check with the St. Louis Building Division, St. Louis County Public Works or your county before you take permit work.
What do plumbers earn?
BLS reports a $63,800 national median wage for plumbers, pipefitters and steamfitters. Use BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics for the Saint Louis metro figure.
How do I find trade jobs in Saint Louis?
Create one free profile at Blue Collar Recruits, then browse open jobs in your trade.