Plumber Career Guide

What is a plumber?

A plumber keeps our water and gas systems running smoothly. They work in homes, businesses, and big projects, making sure everything from your kitchen sink to major sewage systems works properly.

Duties and responsibilities

Plumbers have a lot on their plate. They read blueprints and figure out where pipes should go, install and support pipes for various uses, and fix any problems that come up. They need to know what materials to use for each job and often work alongside other construction pros to build or fix buildings.

Work environment

Plumbers might find themselves in all sorts of places—houses, offices, factories, or even out fixing public pipes. The job can be tough, with lots of heavy lifting and tight spaces. It’s important for them to be fit and to follow strict safety rules to avoid accidents.

Typical work hours

Plumbers usually work full-time and might need to handle emergencies during nights or weekends. Some may work regular hours on construction sites, but they often stay longer to meet deadlines. Being on-call can also be part of the job, ready to fix urgent problems at any time.

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How to become a plumber

Want to get into plumbing? Here’s your step-by-step guide to diving into this essential and rewarding career:

Step 1: Finish high school

First things first, you’ll need to finish high school or get a GED. This will set you up with some basic science, math, and communication skills—all important when you’re measuring, cutting, and installing pipes.

Step 2: Go for vocational training

Next, consider taking courses at a community college or trade school. These programs teach you the nuts and bolts of plumbing, from designing pipe systems to understanding safety and sanitation standards.

Step 3: Complete an apprenticeship

Most of your learning will happen on the job through an apprenticeship, which lasts about four to five years. You’ll earn while you learn, working alongside pros who know the ropes. Just make sure you’re at least 18 years old and ready for the physical work!

Step 4: Get licensed

In most places, you’ll need a license to work as a plumber. This means passing an exam that tests everything you’ve learned about plumbing systems and repairs. Some states might also check that you’ve clocked enough hours on the job before they hand over the license.

Step 5: Keep learning

Plumbing doesn’t stop learning once you’re licensed. Staying up-to-date with new technology and standards is key. You might go to workshops, take extra courses, or specialize in areas like green energy or water conservation to boost your skills and opportunities.

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How much do plumbers make?

Plumber salaries will vary by experience, industry, education, location, and organization size. The level of skills, the nature of the plumbing work, such as residential, commercial, or industrial, and the need for emergency services or specialized certifications can also impact their compensation.

Highest paying industries

• Natural Gas Distribution: $82,680
• Motor Vehicle Manufacturing: $79,140
• Electric Power Generation, Transmission and Distribution: $76,230
• Chemical Manufacturing: $73,670
• Oil and Gas Extraction: $69,620

Browse plumber salary data by market

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Types of plumbers

Plumbers come in all specialties, each with different skills and job responsibilities. Here’s a look at some common types:

Commercial plumber

If you like big projects, consider becoming a commercial plumber. These pros work on large buildings like malls, office complexes, and apartments, installing and fixing massive plumbing systems and commercial-grade fixtures.

Residential plumber

Prefer working close to home and helping families? Residential plumbers focus on plumbing in people’s houses, handling everything from fixing showers and sinks to sorting out the pipes and drains.

Service and repair plumber

These are the go-to experts for fixing plumbing problems. Service and repair plumbers are great at figuring out why pipes are leaking or drains are blocked, and they know how to fix them fast. They also do regular check-ups and give homeowners tips on keeping their plumbing in top shape.

Pipelayer

Pipelayers have a tough job, laying down pipes that carry water, waste, or gas. They mostly work outdoors on construction sites, where they connect pipelines and set up things like sewer lines, needing strong physical stamina and a sharp eye for safety.

Pipefitter

For those interested in a bit more danger, pipefitters work with pipes that carry high-pressure and hazardous materials, like in power plants or factories. This job requires a deep understanding of blueprints and safety when dealing with complex pipe systems.

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Top skills for plumbers

Being a great plumber requires a mix of technical expertise, physical stamina, and great people skills. Here are the key skills you’ll need:

Technical knowledge

These pros must understand how different plumbing systems work, from household fixtures to complex water systems. They need to know how to install, check, and fix everything plumbing-related and be up to date with local building codes. Being able to read and follow blueprints is also crucial.

Problem-solving skills

Plumbers often face unexpected issues, from leaks to full-scale emergencies. You’ll need sharp problem-solving skills to diagnose issues quickly and figure out the best ways to fix them.

Physical endurance

Plumbing can be tough on the body. You might have to work in tight spaces, lift heavy tools or parts, and spend a lot of time on your feet. Good physical health and stamina are important to handle the job’s demands.

Customer service skills

They work directly with clients, so it’s important to communicate clearly and be friendly and professional. Understanding what the customer needs and making sure they’re satisfied with the work is part of the job.

Business and administrative skills

If you run your own plumbing business, you’ll need a handle on business basics like scheduling, managing finances, keeping inventory, and even handling taxes. These skills are key to keeping the business running smoothly.

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Plumber career path options

Once you’ve got some experience in plumbing, a bunch of exciting career paths open up. Here’s how you can grow in the field:

Become a master plumber

Becoming a master plumber is a big step up. This top-level role means you’ve got lots of experience, passed more exams, and know your local plumbing codes inside out. These pros often lead big projects, manage teams, and sometimes run their own businesses.

Specialize in emerging fields

Plumbing is keeping up with the green movement, offering roles in water conservation and sustainable energy. Getting specialized training in these areas can make you stand out and offer job security as technologies and expectations evolve.

Move into management

If leading is more your style, you could aim for management roles like project manager or construction manager. These positions involve running complex projects and teams, and a background in project management can really help.

Teach the next generation

Experienced plumbers have the opportunity to teach at trade schools or through apprenticeship programs. Sharing your knowledge can be rewarding and offers a nice change from daily plumbing tasks.

Start your own business

For those with an entrepreneurial spirit, starting a plumbing business could be the ultimate goal. With the right experience and contacts, you can offer your services directly to customers or businesses, enjoying the independence and challenges that come with owning a business.

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Similar job titles

• Electrician
• Construction Manager
• Maintenance Technician
• Construction Superintendent
• Construction Foreman
• Electro-Mechanical Technician
• Welder
• Carpenter
• Sheet Metal Mechanic
• Machinist

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Position trends and outlook for plumbers

The plumbing field is evolving with new tech and environmental awareness. Here’s what’s happening and what the future looks like for plumbers:

• Going green: More and more, plumbers are working with eco-friendly systems like low-flow toilets and solar water heaters. This shift isn’t just good for the planet—it also saves money for homeowners and businesses, making skills in sustainable plumbing increasingly valuable.
• Digital advancements: Plumbing is getting a tech upgrade, too; they now use software for managing projects and keeping track of customers. With more people working from home, some plumbers even use video calls to help clients fix minor issues themselves.

Employment projections

The demand for plumbers is steady. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects employment for plumbers to grow by 2% through 2032. This growth is driven by new construction needs and the ongoing need to update and fix older plumbing systems.

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Plumber career tips

Understand building and safety codes

Knowing the local building and safety codes is crucial. This knowledge helps you work efficiently and ensures that your plumbing installations meet all legal standards. Keep up with the latest updates to these regulations to make sure your work always passes inspection.

Invest in quality equipment

Quality tools are a smart investment for any plumber. Reliable and durable equipment can make your job easier and more efficient, saving you money on repairs and replacements down the line.

Stay physically fit

Plumbing can be tough on your body. Staying fit helps you handle the physical demands of the job, like lifting heavy items and working in tight spaces, and reduces the risk of injuries.

Build your network

Networking is key in plumbing. It opens doors to new job opportunities and partnerships. Get involved with professional groups and online communities to connect with peers and stay informed:

• Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC)
• United Association (UA)
• American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE)

Never stop learning

The plumbing industry is always changing, so keep learning to stay ahead. Here’s how you can keep up with the latest in plumbing:

• Attend seminars and workshops
• Read industry magazines like Plumbing & Mechanical, Contractor, and Plumber Magazine
• Stay familiar with new tools and technology
• Consider additional certifications like the Certified Plumbing Design Technician (CPDT) or the Certified in Plumbing Design (CPD) to enhance your skills

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FAQs