U.S. Skilled Trade Career Profile
Plumber Career Guide
Start your career as a skilled Plumber in the United States
Updated Reviewed by Career In Trades Editorial Team
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Career Overview
Plumbers install, maintain, and repair water, gas, drainage, and related piping systems in homes, businesses, factories, and other buildings. They also install fixtures and appliances, clear drains, locate leaks, and ensure that completed work complies with applicable plumbing and building codes.
Most plumbers enter the trade through a four- or five-year apprenticeship that combines paid on-the-job training with technical instruction. Because licensing rules vary by jurisdiction, prospective plumbers should verify the requirements of the state or locality where they plan to work.
Demand is supported by new construction and by the continuing need to maintain and repair plumbing systems in existing buildings.
What Does a Plumber Do
- Install and repair water supply lines and drainage systems
- Read blueprints and building plans
- Install sinks, toilets, water heaters, and fixtures
- Diagnose plumbing issues and leaks
- Maintain sewage and waste systems
- Ensure compliance with building and plumbing codes
How to Become a Plumber
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Earn a High School Diploma or GED
Complete high school or obtain a GED. Focus on mathematics, basic science, and technical education courses. These subjects help build foundational skills for plumbing systems and trade apprenticeship programs.
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Enroll in a Plumbing Apprenticeship Program
Apply for a 4–5 year plumbing apprenticeship through unions such as UA (United Association) or local contractors. Apprenticeships combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction.
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Complete On-the-Job Training
Work under licensed plumbers to gain hands-on experience in installing, repairing, and maintaining water supply, drainage, and gas systems in residential and commercial buildings.
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Learn Plumbing Codes and Safety Standards
Study the plumbing codes and safety requirements adopted by the applicable state or locality. Jurisdictions may use the Uniform Plumbing Code, International Plumbing Code, or locally amended standards.
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Meet State or Local Licensing Requirements
Licensing requirements vary by jurisdiction. Most states and some localities require plumbers to document relevant work experience and pass an examination before working independently. Check the applicable licensing board for its experience, examination, insurance, and continuing-education requirements.
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Advance to Journey-Level or Master Plumber Work
After completing an apprenticeship and meeting applicable licensing requirements, plumbers may qualify for journey-level work. With additional experience and examinations, some may advance to master plumber, supervisor, project manager, or plumbing contractor roles.
Skills & Requirements
- Pipe installation and repair
- Blueprint reading and interpretation
- Knowledge of plumbing codes
- Leak detection and troubleshooting
- Physical strength and manual dexterity
- Use of plumbing tools and equipment
- Customer communication skills
Salary Breakdown
Entry-level and experienced salary figures are approximate national estimates intended to illustrate potential earning progression. Actual pay varies by location, experience, licensing level, union status, industry, employer, and overtime. The salary figure shown at the top of this page is the May 2024 national median annual wage reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Job Outlook & Demand
Employment of plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters in the United States is projected to grow 4% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects about 44,000 openings each year, on average, during this period.
Demand for plumbers is expected to come from new construction and from the need to maintain and repair plumbing systems in existing homes, businesses, factories, and other buildings. Many projected openings will also result from workers transferring to other occupations or leaving the labor force.
These national figures cover the combined BLS occupational group Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters. Actual opportunities vary by state, locality, licensing requirements, specialty, construction activity, and local demand.
Work Environment
Plumbers work in homes, businesses, factories, construction sites, and other locations with piping systems. The work may require lifting heavy materials, climbing ladders, working in tight spaces, traveling between job sites, and working outdoors.
Most plumbers work full time. Evening and weekend work may be required, and plumbers are often on call for emergency repairs. Common workplace hazards include cuts, burns from hot pipes or soldering equipment, and falls from ladders.
Examples of Major Employers
Roto-Rooter
LocationCincinnati, Ohio
Benjamin Franklin Plumbing
LocationColumbia, Maryland
ARS Rescue Rooter
LocationMemphis, Tennessee
Mr. Rooter
LocationWaco, Texas
Service Experts
LocationRichardson, Texas
Schneller Knochelmann Plumbing, Heating & Air
LocationCincinnati, Ohio
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a plumber?
Most plumbers complete a 4–5 year apprenticeship.
Do plumbers need a license?
Most states and some localities require plumbers to be licensed. Requirements vary, but they commonly include 2–5 years of experience and an examination before a plumber may work independently. Check the applicable state or local licensing authority.
Can I become a plumber without trade school?
Yes. Apprenticeships are a common pathway.
What salary figure is shown for plumbers?
The displayed national salary figure is $62,970 per year, based on the May 2024 median annual wage reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters. Actual earnings vary by location, experience, specialty, licensing level, industry, and overtime.
Is plumbing a good career in 2026?
BLS projects 4% employment growth from 2024 to 2034 for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters, with about 44,000 openings each year on average. Whether plumbing is a good fit depends on a person’s interest in hands-on work, local licensing requirements, physical working conditions, and employment demand in their area.
Career Data Sources
Career information is reviewed using government, certification, and industry sources. Data may change after publication.
- Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters: Occupational Outlook Handbook — U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (Data: May 2024 wages; 2024–2034 projections) Supports: Median pay, job outlook, annual openings, apprenticeship length, licensing overview, job duties, and work environment. Accessed July 20, 2026.
- 47-2152.00 — Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor (Data: Updated 2026; occupation and workforce data) Supports: Job duties, skills, work activities, work context, education, training, and related occupations. Accessed July 20, 2026.
- UA Registered Apprenticeship Program — United Association (Data: Accessed 2026; apprenticeship program details) Supports: Five-year plumbing apprenticeship pathway, paid on-the-job training, classroom instruction, and journey-level advancement. Accessed July 20, 2026.
Note: Salary figures displayed on this page use the national median annual wage reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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