The following information is from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters. Please visit the website for a more comprehensive breakdown of the data.
LINKS TO PLUMBING DIRECTORY PAGES
WHAT PLUMBERS DO
Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters install and repair piping fixtures and systems.
Job Duties
PAY
National Average Annual Pay (2019): $59,800
Top 5 States
1. Illinois
$86,120
2. Alaska
$79,610
3. Minnesota
$74,700
4. New Jersey
$74,360
5. Massachusetts
$73,970
Bottom 5 States
50. Arkansas
$44,230
49. South Dakota
$44,540
48. North Carolina
$45,070
47. Florida
$45,080
46. New Mexico
$46,280
STEPS TO BECOME A PLUMBER
Most states require plumbers to be licensed. Ultimately you will need experience and training to get licensed and there are a couple ways to do that.
The first is through a trade program. Some programs have specialized plumbing programs while others include it as a skill taught in a construction or general maintenance course. Usually this is just an introduction into the field and you will still need to gain more experience.
The second and most common way is through a plumbing apprenticeship. An apprenticeship can take 2-5 years to complete and will provide you with enough training and experience to get licensed. To find apprenticeship programs in your area, contact local unions and trade associations.
To become a journey-level worker, you will need to have 2-5 years of experience and pass an exam. As a journey worker, you can work independently as a plumber.
After several years of experience as a journey worker, you can take another exam to earn master status. One of the benefits of becoming a master plumber is that this status is required in some states in order to obtain a plumbing contractor’s license.
Option 1: Learn the Skills at a Trade School
Some trade schools focus solely on plumbing while others have plumbing included in other courses such as construction or general maintenance and repair.
Option 2: Learn the Skills with an Apprenticeship
A plumbing apprenticeship takes anywhere from 2 to 5 years.
Pass Required Licensing Exam
Become a Journey-Level Plumber
Advance Career: Master Plumber
You will need to pass another exam to gain master status. This status is necessary in some states in order to obtain a plumbing contractor’s license.
QUALITIES OF PLUMBERS
Dexterity
Plumbers must be able to maneuver parts and tools precisely, often in tight spaces.
Physical Strength
Plumbers must be able to lift and move heavy tools and materials.
Communication Skills
Plumbers must be able to direct workers, bid on jobs, and plan work schedules. Plumbers also talk to customers regularly.
Troubleshooting Skills
Plumbers find, diagnose, and repair problems. They also help with setting up and testing new plumbing and piping systems.
Mechanical Skills
Plumbers choose from a variety of tools to assemble, maintain, and repair pipe systems.