How much do Plumbers make?
If you're considering a career in the skilled trades, becoming a plumber can be an interesting and rewarding career option. Usually, some of the first questions a person may ask, is how much do Plumbers make, how do I become a Plumber and how long does it take to become a Plumber? To get started, explore the resources below to learn how much does a Plumber make and the different pathways to become a Plumber.
Plumber Career Guide
Plumber Salary
Plumbers can earn competitive salaries that can vary depending on various factors. The average salary for a plumber in the United States typically ranges from $50,000 to $80,0001 per year in the United States. However, several factors can influence these figures, including experience level, geographic location, industry, and specific job responsibilities.
- Experience Level: As with many skilled trades, plumbers with more experience generally earn higher salaries. Entry-level apprentice plumbers may start with salaries in the range of $30,000 to $40,000 per year. However, as they gain more experience and becomes a journeymen or master plumber, their earnings can increase to $90,000 or more annually. Visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics for wage estimates for plumbers of various skill levels and locations.
- Industry and Job Responsibilities: Plumbers can work in various industries, such as new construction, residential, commercial and industrial. The industry in which a plumber works in can influence a plumbers salary. Additionally, specific job responsibilities such as working with complex systems, specialized materials, or testing and installing backflow prevention equipment may help increase a plumbers hourly wage due to the increased skill and certification required.
How to Become a Plumber
The steps to take to become a plumber typically includes a combination of training and practical experience. Here's an overview of the steps to pursue a career as a plumber.
- Education: While a high school diploma or equivalent is the minimum requirement for entry into a plumbing job, pursuing training from a plumbing trade school or an apprenticeship can be highly beneficial. These programs offer comprehensive training in plumbing systems, soldering, pipefitting techniques, water backflow prevention, blueprint reading, codes and safety procedures.
- Apprenticeship: Joining an apprenticeship program is a common pathway for entry level plumbers. These programs provide a structured combination of classroom instruction and hands-on training under the guidance of other experienced journeyman plumber. Apprenticeships typically last 4-5 years and provide valuable practical experience.
- Licensing and Certifications: Plumbers are typically required to obtain state licensure to work independently. Licensing requirements vary by state, but they often involve passing an exam to demonstrate competency in plumbing work. Additional certifications, such as those for specialized areas like backflow preventer testing and installation, can enhance job prospects and a plumber's hourly wages.
It's a great time to Go Skilled Trades!
It's a great time to become a plumber! A skilled trades career as a plumber offers both stable employment and competitive salaries within the skilled trades and construction industry. Furthermore, an average plumbers salary provides a solid foundation for earning a livable income, with opportunities for growth as experience and trade skills increase. The demand for plumbers remains strong and continues to grow every year making it an exciting and potentially rewarding career choice.
- Bureau of Labor Statistics - National Wage Estimates for Plumber Salary