Plumber Career Guide

What Does a Plumber Do?

Plumbers install and repair piping fixtures and systems that carry water, gas, and other fluids. They prepare cost estimates, read blueprints, determine materials needed, install pipes and fixtures, inspect and test systems, troubleshoot malfunctions, and maintain plumbing systems. Plumbers work with copper, steel, and plastic pipes using tools like drills, saws, welding torches, and specialized equipment. They install water heaters, toilets, sinks, and appliances, clean drains, and may work on septic systems in homes not connected to sewer systems.

Education & Requirements

• Typical Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Certifications: State/local plumbing license required in most areas (pass exam after 2-5 years experience); master plumber license for independent work
• Key Skills: Mechanical skills, troubleshooting, physical strength, communication, dexterity, problem-solving
• Experience: 4-5 year apprenticeship with 2,000 hours/year paid on-the-job training plus classroom instruction

Salary Information

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024 data):

• Median Annual Salary: $62,970
• Entry-Level (10th percentile): $40,670
• Experienced (90th percentile): $105,150
• Top-Paying Industries: Government ($69,160), Heavy construction ($62,770)
• Lower-Paying Industries: Plumbing contractors ($62,670), Manufacturing ($61,620)

Job Outlook & Growth

Employment of plumbers is projected to grow 4 percent from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. About 44,000 openings are projected each year, many from workers retiring or changing careers. Demand stems from new construction and the need to maintain and repair plumbing in existing buildings. Building codes requiring fire suppression systems (sprinklers) will increase demand for specialized plumbers. Population growth and building construction continue to create steady need for plumbing services.

How to Break Into This Field

1. Education: Complete high school or GED. Consider vocational-technical courses in pipe system design, safety, tool use, and welding. Math and blueprint reading skills are essential.
2. Entry-Level Roles: Apply for apprenticeship programs through unions (UA), trade associations, or plumbing contractors. Start as a plumber's helper or apprentice to learn on the job.
3. Build Skills: Complete 4-5 year apprenticeship (2,000 hours paid work + classroom each year). Pass journey-level licensing exam. Pursue master plumber status after several years.
4. Network: Join unions like United Association (UA), attend trade shows, connect with local plumbing contractors, and participate in continuing education programs.
5. Apply Strategically: Target plumbing contractors, construction companies, facilities management, or government positions. Check apprenticeship.gov, union job boards, and local contractor websites.

Career Path & Advancement

Plumbers advance from apprentice to journey-level plumber (after licensing) to master plumber. Master plumbers can supervise projects, train apprentices, or start their own contracting businesses. Some specialize in areas like gasfitting, sprinkler systems, or green plumbing technologies. Experienced plumbers may become project managers, plumbing inspectors, or estimators. Self-employed plumbers can build their own client base and set their own rates. Some transition into plumbing sales, code inspection, or teaching at vocational schools.

Pros & Cons

Related Careers

If you're interested in Plumber, you might also consider:

• Electrician (similar skilled trade, apprenticeship model)
• HVAC Technician (related building systems work)
• Pipefitter or Steamfitter (industrial piping systems)
• Construction Manager (supervisory role in construction)