Category
Trades
What It Is
Installs and repairs pipes, fixtures, and water/drainage systems in residential and commercial buildings.
Best For
Practical problem-solvers comfortable with physical work and emergency/on-call schedules.
Avoid If
You are uncomfortable with confined spaces, crawlspaces, or being on-call for emergencies.
Degree Required
No degree. Apprenticeship, typically 4-5 years.
Skills Needed
Mechanical reasoning, math for measurements, code compliance, customer service.
Training Path
Union or independent apprenticeship pairing paid work with classroom hours.
Certs / Licenses
State journeyman then master plumber license after logged apprenticeship hours.
Time to First Job
Immediate entry as apprentice; journeyman status in 4-5 years.
Cost to Enter
$0-3,000 (most apprenticeships are paid).
Income Range
General estimate: $38,000-$48,000 apprentice, $65,000-$95,000+ licensed journeyman. Verify local data.
First Job Titles
Plumber Apprentice, Plumber’s Helper.
Companies Hiring
Plumbing contractors, union locals, commercial construction firms, property management.
Best Next Step
Apply to a local plumbers union apprenticeship or licensed plumbing contractor.
Real Training Providers Near You
- UA Local 467 Plumbers Joint Apprenticeship – Burlingame, California (5★, 1 reviews)
- UA Local 38 Plumbers & Pipefitters – San Francisco, California (5★, 15 reviews)
- Pipefitters Local 597 – Chicago, Illinois (4.9★, 24 reviews)
Verified via Google Business listings, 2026-07-06. Always confirm current pricing, schedule, and enrollment requirements directly with the provider.