Plumbing offers a stable, well-paying career with strong job security and opportunities for entrepreneurship. Plumbers install, maintain, and repair water supply lines, drainage systems, gas lines, and fixtures in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 5% job growth through 2032, with an aging workforce creating additional opportunities. Plumbing is a skilled trade that cannot be outsourced or automated, ensuring long-term demand for qualified professionals.
Education
A high school diploma or GED is required to enter plumbing. Courses in mathematics, physics, and shop classes provide helpful foundations. Most plumbers learn through formal apprenticeship programs lasting 4-5 years, combining classroom instruction with paid on-the-job training. Trade school programs offer accelerated training in 6-12 months but still require apprenticeship experience.
Essential Skills
Helpful Certifications
Career Progression
Key Responsibilities
- Assist licensed plumbers with basic tasks
- Transport tools, materials, and equipment
- Clean work areas and job sites
- Learn safety procedures and tool identification
- Observe installation and repair techniques
Skills to Master
Key Responsibilities
- Install pipes, fittings, and fixtures under supervision
- Attend classroom training and pass required courses
- Read and interpret blueprints and building codes
- Cut, assemble, and solder pipes
- Test systems for leaks using pressure gauges
- Document work hours for licensing requirements
Skills to Master
Key Responsibilities
- Work independently on plumbing installations and repairs
- Diagnose complex plumbing problems
- Ensure code compliance and pass inspections
- Mentor and supervise apprentices
- Estimate project costs and materials
- Communicate with customers and contractors
Skills to Master
Key Responsibilities
- Design and plan complex plumbing systems
- Pull permits and oversee inspections
- Manage projects and coordinate with other trades
- Train and certify apprentices and journeymen
- Handle commercial and industrial projects
- Specialize in areas like medical gas or fire suppression
Skills to Master
Key Responsibilities
- Own and operate plumbing business
- Hire, train, and manage plumbing staff
- Handle business operations, marketing, and accounting
- Bid on large commercial and government contracts
- Build relationships with suppliers and subcontractors
- Ensure company compliance with licensing and insurance requirements
Skills to Master
How to Advance Your Career
Complete your apprenticeship and obtain your journeyman license as quickly as possible - this is the foundation of your career
Pursue your master plumber license to access higher-paying positions and the ability to run your own business
Specialize in high-demand niches like medical gas installation, fire suppression systems, or green/sustainable plumbing
Develop excellent customer service skills - referrals and repeat customers are crucial in this industry
Stay current with new technologies including tankless water heaters, smart home integration, and water conservation systems
Consider union membership for access to better wages, benefits, and training programs
Build relationships with general contractors and property managers for steady work referrals
Learn basic business skills if you plan to become an independent contractor or business owner
Related Career Paths
Master plumbers can transition to inspection roles with municipalities or private inspection companies. These positions offer regular hours, benefits, and less physical demands while leveraging deep code knowledge.
Related trades that focus on industrial and commercial pipe systems for steam, heating, and cooling. Often offers higher pay, especially in industrial settings and union positions.
Many plumbing skills transfer to HVAC work. Combined plumbing and HVAC expertise makes you highly valuable for residential and commercial projects requiring both skill sets.
Experienced master plumbers can teach at trade schools, community colleges, or run apprenticeship programs. This path offers stable hours and the satisfaction of developing new talent.
Plumbers with strong leadership and organizational skills can move into project management, overseeing multiple trades on construction projects.
Common Challenges
Physical demands including lifting, crawling in tight spaces, and working in uncomfortable positions
Exposure to hazardous materials, sewage, and working in extreme temperatures
Irregular hours including emergency calls, weekends, and holiday work
Keeping up with changing building codes and new technologies
Managing customer expectations and handling difficult service situations
Building a client base and marketing when starting your own business
Competition from unlicensed handymen offering lower prices