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Plumber

Plumbers install and repair the pipes that carry water, gas, and waste. It's essential, well-paid work that can't be outsourced — and many plumbers eventually run their own business.

Median Salary
$63,800/yr
Typical Range
$44,150 – $108,420
Job Outlook
Faster than average

What does a Plumber do?

  • Install and connect pipes, fixtures, and appliances
  • Diagnose leaks and clogs and make repairs
  • Read blueprints and follow plumbing codes
  • Estimate costs and talk with customers

Education & training

High school diploma plus an apprenticeship

How to become a Plumber

  1. Graduate high school (math and shop help)
  2. Join a plumbing apprenticeship to earn while training
  3. Log the required on-the-job and classroom hours
  4. Get licensed in your state

Skills that help

Mechanical skillProblem-solvingCustomer servicePhysical staminaMath

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National wage figures via O*NET Web Services. This application incorporates information from O*NET Web Services by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Figures are national estimates and vary by state, employer, and experience.

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