How To Become a Plumber

Plumbers perform a variety of tasks, including repairs, maintenance, and renovations. People with an eye for detail and who enjoy hands-on work often thrive in this field.

Plumbing careers require a paid plumbing apprenticeship rather than a college degree. This means anyone can begin making money in this field quickly. Plumbers earn a median $59,880 annually, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This figure surpasses the median annual salary of $45,760 for all occupations.

This guide explains how to become a plumber. Read on to learn about education requirements and how to get hired for plumbing jobs.

Plumbers typically specialize in a few areas. These may include residential, commercial, repair, water supply, and sanitary plumbing.

High school graduates can immediately begin paid plumbing training. Most states require about five years of formal apprenticeship training for plumbers to practice independently.

This field does not require a college degree. Aspiring plumbers must complete a supervised plumbing apprenticeship to earn a license.

Plumbers can begin practicing independently after earning a license. They can work as managers and business owners as master-level plumbers.

Many people think of plumbers as workers who repair sinks and toilets. However, they perform several other tasks. Some plumbers specialize in plumbing layout plans for new constructions and renovations. They must know how to discreetly place pipes and run systems between multi-story buildings.

Plumbers typically work with water and gas piping systems. Master plumbers can install and repair all types of plumbing systems. These high-level professionals oversee teams of apprentices. They also install new plumbing fixtures like toilets, sinks, and water heaters.

Plumbers educate clients on how to maintain their pipework to prevent clogging and freezing. These professionals also maintain septic systems and inspect connections to sewer systems.

Plumbers must know how to effectively communicate with project managers and property owners. They also need to know local city codes for inspection compliance.

The BLS projects jobs for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters to increase 5% from 2020-2030, which is slower than the average projected growth rate for all occupations. Still, the organization projects about 51,000 new jobs for these professionals annually from 2020-2030.

Plumbers earn an average of $58,130 annually, according to April 2022 Payscale data. Master plumbers earn an average of $70,220 annually, according to April 2022 Payscale data, while journeyman plumbers earn $59,960. However, many factors influence salary, including professionals’ employer and experience.

Geographic location also impacts salary. For example, plumbers in Illinois earn a mean annual salary of $86,200 while Floridian plumbers earn $48,120. We highlight state and wage data for plumbing jobs in the chart below.

Source: BLS

Aspiring plumbers need a high school or GED diploma. They then usually begin a formal plumbing apprenticeship. A licensed plumber oversees this type of paid training. Some prospective plumbers choose to attend a few semesters of trade school before or during an apprenticeship.

Applying for an apprenticeship is similar to applying for a job. Applicants should create a resume and provide references. Some competitive apprenticeships may require an aptitude test. This exam mainly features math problems. Apprentice employers look for job candidates who can implement directions with precision.

After gaining about five years of experience, apprentices can apply for licensure. At this point, they can work independently. Advanced plumbers usually gain work through word-of-mouth referrals. They must know how to create accurate and competitive bids to gain new clients. They may need to invest in marketing and advertising to expand the business.

Anyone with a high school diploma can start working as a plumber under supervision. However, advancing to plumbing positions with more autonomy and higher pay requires more training. While some plumbers take unique career paths, most complete the three main steps below.

Aspiring plumbers can sometimes earn formal training at no cost. In fact, they may earn a salary for the apprenticeship if they apply for one through a union. Individuals can increase their chances of earning an apprenticeship by attending plumbing school at a community college.

Certificate programs from trade schools and community colleges usually only require 1-2 years of study. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, undergraduate students spend an average of about $18,840 on tuition and required fees for one semester.

Some trade schools offer degrees online. Online learners can save money on commuting costs and may benefit from reduced tuition.

During their studies and apprenticeships, aspiring plumbers should budget for tools. While some employers provide these items, advanced tools may help apprentices succeed on the job.

Aspiring plumbers should check with their city or state’s licensing board to learn exact certification and licensure requirements. For example, prospective plumbers in Texas should check with the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners. Workers who wish to move states may need to apply for a new license. Depending on the new state’s licensing requirements, plumbers may need to fulfill additional requirements or take an extra exam.

Most states require fewer years of experience for journeyman plumbers than for master plumbers. Licensed master plumbers experience more independence than licensed journeyman plumbers. Although journeyman plumbers receive less supervision than apprentices, they still receive supervision and feedback from master plumbers.

Plumbers can also earn certification in special areas. For example, the American Society of Plumbing Engineers offers a certificate in green plumbing design.

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