Plumbers
Plumbers design, install, maintain and repair pipes, fittings and fixtures for water, sewage, drainage and gas systems according to codes and specifications. Plumbers are trained to do everything from digging trenches for new pipelines, to installing hardware for faucets, showers and lavatories in residential, commercial and industrial buildings.
Compensation Information
Work Conditions
Both indoor and outdoor, nearly every building type, varying weather, physically demanding, new and existing construction, working from heights
Skills Needed
Strong math, reading, spatial and mechanical ability, manual dexterity, problem solving, physical stamina, fast-paced thinking, communication, hand/eye coordination, comfortable with heights, blueprint reading, decision making
Relevant Classes
Algebra
Basic arithmetic
General math
Geometry
Trigonometry
Science
Technology
Drafting
Mechanical drawing
English/communication
Shop classes
Education and Training
5-year apprentice program
8,000 hours of on-the-job training
572 paid hours
260 unpaid hours (night school)