Plumbing Trades

Updated April 13, 2025 | Brad Fishbein

Table of Contents

Plumbers do more than just fix leaks — they keep our homes, businesses, and infrastructure running. With growing demand across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors, plumbing offers a stable career, great pay, and hands-on work that makes a difference every day.

What Do Plumbers Do?

Plumbers install and maintain systems that move water, gas, and waste. They work on:

  • Pipes and fittings in homes and buildings
  • Water heaters and boilers
  • Drainage systems and sewage lines
  • Gas piping and appliance hookups
  • Commercial plumbing systems

They may specialize in residential service, new construction, commercial or industrial plumbing, or even inspection and design.

Salary & Job Outlook

Role Median Salary Job Growth (2024–2032)
Apprentice $35,000–$45,000 👍 Steady
Journeyman Plumber $55,000–$65,000 🔧 Growing
Master Plumber $75,000–$90,000+ 📈 High Demand

📊 According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of plumbers is expected to grow by 2% through 2032. Aging infrastructure and new construction will continue to drive demand.

How to Become a Plumber

Follow this proven path to get started:

  1. Finish high school or earn a GED
  2. Apply for an apprenticeship (usually through a union or local contractor)
  3. Attend trade school or complete classroom training (optional but beneficial)
  4. Complete 4,000–8,000 hours of on-the-job training
  5. Pass your state’s plumbing license exam

Training Options

Plumbers can learn the trade through:

  • Trade Schools and Vocational Programs
  • Union Apprenticeships (e.g., UA Local Unions)
  • Paid On-the-Job Training with licensed plumbers

💡 Most apprenticeships offer competitive pay, benefits, and classroom instruction.

State Licensing & Requirements

Each state sets its own licensing rules. Common requirements include:

  • Being at least 18 years old
  • Holding a high school diploma or GED
  • Completing a registered apprenticeship
  • Logging thousands of supervised work hours
  • Passing a written exam on plumbing code

We’ve written state-by-state guides that walk you through exactly what’s required.

State Step-by-Step Guide
Florida Become a Plumber in Florida
Texas Become a Plumber in Texas
California Become a Plumber in California

Explore more: All State Licensing Pages »

Skills Needed

  • Mechanical aptitude & troubleshooting
  • Basic math and blueprint reading
  • Physical strength and stamina
  • Attention to safety and building codes
  • Strong customer service skills

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • Strong wages and job security
  • Path to owning your own plumbing business
  • Daily variety and problem-solving
  • Minimal student debt (paid training options)

Cons:

  • Physically demanding work
  • Irregular hours for service calls
  • Licensing takes time and commitment

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Brad Fishbein Licensed Mold Assessor

Meet the author: Brad Fishbein is a Florida Licensed Mold Assessor and council-certified Microbial Investigator. He’s the founder of TradeCareerPath.com and has completed over 5,000 mold inspections since 2009. Brad now helps homeowners and tradespeople make smart decisions about mold, licensing, and skilled career paths.