Plumbing is an essential trade that offers a stable and rewarding career.
Whether you want to work for a company, become a master plumber, or even start your own plumbing business, there are several paths you can take to achieve your goals.
There is good money in the plumbing business. Apprentice plumbers in large towns on the West Coast and Southwest are pulling in $48,000 – $60,000 salaries with journeymen making upwards of $80,000 – $100,000 per year plus bonuses.
This article will outline two main routes: joining a company as a plumber-in-training and pursuing an apprenticeship program.
We’ll also explore how you can advance to becoming a master plumber and potentially a plumbing contractor or business owner.
Path 1: Joining a Company as a Plumber-in-Training
If you’re eager to jump straight into the workforce without attending trade school, joining a plumbing company as a trainee is an excellent option. Here’s how it works:
1. Meet Basic Requirements
Education: Many companies do not require a formal education or even that your have graduated high school and some companies require a high school diploma or GED. What plumbing companies are really looking for are good people who want to learn plumbing and are willing to work hard to make it happen.
So an education is often not required but good character and a will to succeed are.
Age: You typically need to be at least 18 years old, though some states allow 16-year-olds to start with parental permission.
Skills: Strong math and problem-solving skills are essential, as well as the ability to work with your hands.
2. Apply for an Entry-Level Position
Many plumbing companies today hire individuals with no prior experience and train them on the job. This is often referred to as “earning while you learn.”
You’ll work under the supervision of licensed plumbers, gaining hands-on experience with tasks like installing pipes, repairing fixtures, and troubleshooting plumbing systems.
3. Learn While Working
On-the-job training allows you to build practical skills in real-world settings.
Some companies may also offer additional classroom instruction or cover the cost of certification exams.
In some large cities, plumbing companies will start brand new plumbers at $25-$30 an hour, which is $10-$15 abobve minimum wage in order to entice them to start a career in plumbing.
In major cities like San Francisco, San Diego, Los Angeles, and New York City, entry-level plumbers can out-earn many college graduates on their first day, making up to $29–$30 per hour—significantly above the national average. However, rural areas tend to offer lower wages, often balanced by a lower cost of living.
4. Advantages of This Route
Cost-Effective: You get paid while learning, avoiding student debt.
Quick Start: You can begin working immediately after being hired.
Flexible Path: If you decide later to pursue formal licensing or advanced certifications, your work experience will count toward those requirements.
This route is ideal for those who prefer hands-on learning and want to avoid the costs of trade school. However, it may take longer to qualify for advanced roles compared to structured apprenticeship programs.
Path 2: Pursuing an Apprenticeship
A plumbing apprenticeship combines classroom education with on-the-job training and is one of the most common ways to become a plumber. Here’s how you can follow this path:
1. Apply for an Apprenticeship Program
Apprenticeships are offered by unions, trade associations, technical schools, and private companies. To qualify:
Be at least 18 years old (some programs accept 16-year-olds).
Have a high school diploma or GED.
Pass any required tests, such as aptitude exams in math and reading comprehension.
2. Complete Training
Apprenticeships typically last 4–5 years and include:
Classroom Instruction: About 144 hours per year covering topics like plumbing codes, safety protocols, blueprint reading, and system design.
On-the-Job Training: Around 2,000 hours per year under the guidance of experienced plumbers.
During this time, apprentices earn a wage that increases as they gain more skills and experience.
3. Take Licensing Exams
After completing the apprenticeship program, you’ll be eligible to take the licensing exam in your state. Passing this exam allows you to become a licensed journeyman plumber.
4. Benefits of Apprenticeships
Structured learning ensures you gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Many programs are sponsored by unions or employers, which may cover tuition costs.
Graduates are highly qualified and competitive in the job market.
Advancing Your Career
Once you’ve gained experience as a journeyman plumber, there are opportunities for further advancement:
1. Become a Master Plumber
A master plumber is an expert in the trade who can take on more complex projects and supervise other plumbers. Requirements include:
Several years of experience as a journeyman (usually 1–5 years).
Passing an advanced licensing exam that tests knowledge of plumbing codes, system design, and business management.
Master plumbers often earn higher salaries and have more job flexibility.
2. Start Your Own Plumbing Business
If you’re entrepreneurial-minded, becoming a plumbing contractor or business owner could be your next step. Owning your own business allows you to set your rates and schedule while potentially earning a lot more income.
On average, plumbing company owners in the U.S. make between $63,000 and $85,000 per year, but earnings can vary widely.
In high-demand areas like Southern California and the East Coast, business owners in major cities such as San Diego, Los Angeles, Miami, and New York can earn anywhere from $100,000 to $250,000 or more annually.
Owners of multi-truck operations in high-demand areas can potentially earn $300,000+ annually if their business is successful.
In order to come an owner, you will need to gain additional experience managing projects, estimating and selling jobs and marketing. You will need to get any required contractor licenses in your state and obtain liability insurance and
Build a network of clients by delivering quality work.
Why You Don’t Always Need Formal Schooling
While trade schools provide valuable education in plumbing theory and business management, they aren’t always necessary.
Many successful plumbers start their careers through on-the-job training or apprenticeships without attending school.
Here’s why:
Apprenticeships provide both education and hands-on experience at little or no cost.
Employers often value practical skills over formal education.
Licensing exams focus on knowledge gained through work experience rather than classroom instruction alone.
Conclusion
Becoming a plumber offers multiple pathways depending on your preferences and goals. Whether you join a company as a trainee or enroll in an apprenticeship program, both routes can lead to fulfilling careers in plumbing.
With dedication and hard work, you can advance from an entry-level position to becoming a master plumber—and even start your own business someday.
Plumbing is not just about fixing pipes; it’s about solving problems that improve people’s lives every day.
If you’re ready for a stable career with growth opportunities, consider starting your journey in plumbing today!