Why Consider a Plumbing Career?
Unfortunately for homeowners, broken pipes, leaking faucets, and clogged sewer lines will be a recurring problem over the decades of home ownership. Fortunately for plumbers, business will always be necessary and in high demand.
Whether you’re a new graduate or looking for a career shift, a plumbing career is a smart move. As the breakdown of pipe systems disrupts daily routines, plumbing services are often required quickly to prevent more extensive and expensive damage. Reliable job security, strong wages, and advancement opportunities can be found with jobs in the plumbing industry.
Learn how to start your plumbing career and thrive in the years to come.
The Strength of the Plumbing Industry
Skilled trades, including plumbing, are among the most in-demand professions in the United States. As experienced plumbers retire, a new generation of professionals has the opportunity to step into a thriving and essential field. With steady demand for plumbing services—ranging from repairs and restoration to leak detection and advanced smart technology integration—the industry offers long-term stability and growth potential.
According to Jobber, nearly 740,000 people currently work in the plumbing industry. The market is valued at just under $160 billion and is projected to grow up to 6% by 2033. As homes and businesses continue to evolve, plumbers will play a critical role in maintaining infrastructure and implementing modern, efficient systems.
How to Get Started in the Plumbing Industry
With ongoing advancements and a strong demand for skilled workers, now is an excellent time to start a career in plumbing. The industry provides a clear path for growth, offering hands-on experience with competitive wages and opportunities to advance into leadership. Getting started with your plumbing career is easier than you may think!
While no traditional four-year degree is required, you will need experience to start your career. Many aspiring plumbers gain this experience either by attending a trade school or working under the supervision of an experienced plumber.
Once you’ve achieved the required experience, you can move forward in your career by getting your plumbing license. Getting the proper licensure can increase your salary and responsibility, exposing you to even more valuable experience. The more licenses and certifications you acquire, the more money you can earn and specialty services your company can offer.
Remember, each state has different requirements for jobs in the plumbing industry. Do your homework before you start your process.
Career Pathways in Plumbing
The plumbing industry offers a clear and rewarding career advancement for those willing to learn and grow. From entry-level apprenticeships to running your own business, there is a clear pathway to success. Here’s what you can expect at each stage of your plumbing career.
Apprenticeship
Every plumbing career begins with an apprenticeship. This stage is all about learning the trade through hands-on experience while earning a paycheck. Apprentices work under the supervision of licensed plumbers, gaining essential skills in pipe installation, repair, and maintenance.
Key Benefits
- Paid, on-the-job training with little to no student debt
- Learning the trade from experienced professionals
- Exposure to different plumbing specialties
How to Get Started
- Apply for an apprenticeship through a union, trade school, or plumbing company
- Complete required classroom instruction and field training
- Work under a licensed plumber for 4-5 years, depending on state regulations
Licensed Plumber
Once you’ve completed your apprenticeship and passed any required exams, you can become a licensed plumber. At this stage, you gain more independence and the ability to take on specialized work.
Key Benefits
- Higher wages and job security
- Ability to work on residential and commercial projects
- Potential to specialize in areas like pipefitting or water treatment
Requirements
- Completion of apprenticeship program
- Passing a state or local licensing exam
- Meeting continuing education requirements as needed
Journeyman Plumber
With additional experience and the successful completion of licensing requirements, licensed plumbers can advance to journeyman status. Journeyman plumbers have greater independence and responsibility on job sites, often supervising apprentices and working directly with clients. At this stage, they can take on more complex installations, repairs, and troubleshooting tasks without direct oversight.
Key Benefits
- Requires additional years of work experience
- Higher pay and the ability to work more independently
- Supervision of apprentices and entry-level plumbers
Master Plumber
After several years as a journeyman, the next step is becoming a master plumber. This prestigious title requires additional licensing exams and, in some states, a certain number of work hours under a master plumber’s supervision. Master plumbers have the authority to pull permits, oversee large-scale commercial and residential projects, and even run their own plumbing businesses.
Key Benefits
- Requires extensive experience after years of being a Journeyman
- Passes a master plumber exam
- Can own and operate a plumbing business
- Ability to design plumbing systems and oversee large-scale projects
Owning a Plumbing Business
For those with experience and an entrepreneurial mindset, owning a plumbing business is the ultimate goal. Business owners set their own schedules, build client relationships, and have unlimited earning potential.
Key Benefits
- Full control over projects, pricing, and business decisions
- High earning potential
- Ability to hire and train new plumbers
Requirements
- Gain experience as a master plumber
- Obtain necessary business licenses and insurance
- Build a customer base and hire a skilled team
Accurate Leak and Line Supports Plumbing Careers
The plumbing industry offers more than just a job—it’s a long-term career with unlimited potential. If you’re an experienced plumber looking to take the next step, Accurate Leak and Line offers opportunities to manage a corporate-owned location anywhere in the United States. This is a great way to gain leadership experience before launching your own business. Join our team today!