Plumber
A career as a plumber involves installing, repairing, and maintaining piping systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
About Plumbers
Plumbers work with water supply, drainage, heating, and cooling systems, requiring a blend of technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and physical stamina. Entry into the profession typically involves completing an apprenticeship, which combines hands-on training with classroom instruction, followed by obtaining a license. With strong job prospects and competitive earnings, plumbing offers a stable and rewarding career path. Plumbers also have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as gas fitting or water treatment, potentially enhancing their earning potential and career advancement.
Key Tasks
- Install pipes, fixtures, and appliances, such as sinks, toilets, and water heaters, according to building codes and safety standards
- Perform routine maintenance on plumbing systems to prevent issues, such as cleaning drains and checking for wear and tear on pipes
- Identify the cause of plumbing problems using various tools and techniques to implement effective solutions
- Handle emergency plumbing situations, such as burst pipes or severe leaks, often outside of regular working hours
- Interpret blueprints and building plans to understand the layout and requirements of plumbing systems in new constructions or renovations
Key Skills
- Understand and work with various plumbing systems and tools, including pipe cutting, soldering, and threading.
- Use basic math for measuring, cutting, and calculating dimensions and quantities.
- Handle tools and performing precise tasks with a high level of skill and coordination.
- Interpret and understand construction blueprints and schematics to accurately install and repair plumbing systems.
- Diagnose and troubleshoot issues efficiently and effectively to find and implement the best solutions.
Education & Certifications
- High school diploma or GED
- Career and Technical Education: Trade and technical schools offer specialized programs in plumbing, providing hands-on training and technical knowledge necessary for a career in the field.
- Apprenticeship: A plumbing apprenticeship is a structured training program that combines on-the-job experience with classroom instruction. Apprenticeships generally last 4-5 years, depending on the program and the apprentice’s progress.
- Journeyman License: A journeyman license in plumbing is a credential that allows a plumber to work independently and perform plumbing services without direct supervision. It signifies that the plumber has acquired a significant level of expertise through an apprenticeship or equivalent experience and has passed a licensing exam.
Local College/ University Programs
- Career Technology Center of Lackawanna County
- Wilkes-Barre Area Career and Technical Center
- Pennsylvania College of Technology
Industry Sector Employers
- J. Rybnick Mechanical Contractor, Inc.
- Masterson Plumbing and Drain Services
- Mike Burke Plumbing & Heating
- Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup
- Shur-Flo Plumbing
- Warren Construction