What is a plumber's job?
Job Duties. Plumbers are primarily responsible for installing and maintaining various types of piping systems and fixtures. The exact responsibilities of a plumber depend on the particular project type.
How long does it take to become a plumber?
Plumbing training programs typically take four to five years to complete, and usually require you to have a high school diploma or GED to enroll.
What is a pipelayer?
Pipelayers. Pipelayers set and install the piping needed for various plumbing systems, such as water mains and storm drains. As a pipelayer, you can expect to dig and grade the trenches where the pipe will lay, set the pipes in the trenches and secure the pipes together through welding, cementing, or gluing.
What do plumbers do?
Plumbers must be able to perform the following tasks: Install pipes and plumbing fixtures. Visually inspect equipment and operate test equipment such as pressure and vacuum gauges to determine the cause and location of trouble. Clear obstructions from sink drains and toilets. Troubleshoot problems and decide how to fix them.
What are the skills of a plumber?
Plumbers Skills & Competencies 1 Listening Skills: The ability to pay attention to what customers say allows you to understand their problems. 2 Troubleshooting: After listening to a complaint, you will have to determine its cause and then figure out how to make the proper repairs. 3 Critical Thinking: When solving a problem, it is essential to weigh possible solutions before choosing the best one. 4 Verbal Communication: You must be able to clearly explain to customers the required work and related costs. 5 Physical Strength: Plumbers must be able to lift heavy equipment and tools.
How long does an apprenticeship last?
Apprenticeship: Apprenticeships are sponsored by trade unions and employers. They last from four to five years and include 2,000 hours of on-the-job training and classroom instruction. You will need a high school or equivalency diploma and must be at least 18 years old to be accepted into a program.
How many plumbers are self employed?
Plumbers frequently sustain injuries, including burns, cuts, and falls. Approximately 13% of workers are self-employed. Those who are can set their own schedules.
What is listening skills?
Listening Skills: The ability to pay attention to what customers say allows you to understand their problems. Troubleshooting: After listening to a complaint, you will have to determine its cause and then figure out how to make the proper repairs.
How many hours does a plumber work?
Evenings and weekends are often part of their regular schedule, and overtime (more than eight hours a day or more than 40 hours per week) is common. Plumbers, in order to respond to emergencies, must be on call regularly.
Do you need a license to be a plumber?
License: Plumbers are required to have a license to work in most states and municipalities in the U.S.
Job Duties
- Plumbers are primarily responsible for installing and maintaining various types of piping systems and fixtures. The exact responsibilities of a plumber depend on the particular project type. All plumbers must be able to follow blueprints, work with plumbing tools, and know what types of materials are required for each job. Plumbers may also design ...
Specialties
- Pipelayers, pipefitters, and steamfitters are all specialties within the plumbing profession. As a plumber, you can specialize in a particular area or offer services in multiple specialties, including pipelaying and pipefitting.
Pipelayers
- Pipelayers set and install the piping needed for various plumbing systems, such as water mains and storm drains. As a pipelayer, you can expect to dig and grade the trenches where the pipe will lay, set the pipes in the trenches and secure the pipes together through welding, cementing, or gluing.
Pipefitters and Steamfitters
- Pipefitters are mainly involved with large industrial plumbing projects. They install and maintain heating and cooling piping systems, as well as systems used to generate electricity. Steamfitters specialize in high-pressure systems that move gases or liquids, such as water, steam, or compressed air.
Training Requirements
- You can train to become a plumber through plumbing apprenticeships found through trade schools and community colleges. Plumbing training programs typically take four to five years to complete, and usually require you to have a high school diploma or GED to enroll. Apprenticeships provide you with on-the-job training and build your knowledge of piping types, systems, tool usa…
Employment Outlook and Salary Information
- According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS, www.bls.gov), there were about 490,200 jobs held by plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters in 2019. The projected job growth for this field was 4% from 2019-2029. The BLS reported the mean annual wage for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters in May 2020 was $61,100.