How to become a Plumber
This is a post I originally created on the r/plumbing subreddit and am migrating here. I'll be updating and adding to this guide occasionally. Hopefully you find this helpful and informative!
Why would you want to be a Plumber? Well for me and many others it can be a rewarding career that leaves you feeling accomplished at the end of most days and every day can be different. Technology is always advancing, and new methods come along that make things easier and simpler. You’re always learning something new as a Plumber because codes change and every job is a little different. This keeps the job interesting. Many people view Plumbers and tradespeople in general as people who were too dumb to go to college and couldn’t get any other job. That is far from the truth though as being a successful Plumber requires continuous education and training. Plumbing is a career that will always be in demand everywhere in the world, can’t be outsourced and will likely never be (completely) taken over by robots in any of our lifetimes. There’s also the fact that you won’t have to deal with crippling debt from student loans, and you can make good money quickly out of school.
I’m doing this to help people everywhere, but codes/licensing/etc… can be different in many states so you should do your research before getting too far ahead of yourself. I live in the Northeast US (MA/RI) so that’s where my experiences apply.
Some frequently asked questions:
Am I too old to get into Plumbing?
Probably not! Obviously the younger you start the better, but there’s no age requirement to being a Plumber. Just know that Plumbing, like most construction trades, is a very physical job and can be hard on your body. The physical toll is something to consider when getting into any trade, and might be a turn off to you. Always wear PPE to keep yourself from getting injured.
How much money do Plumbers make? Salaries vary from state to state, so it’s best to research your local area. Here is a list of Plumber salaries updated in 2016. Search for job listings on Indeed to get a sense of pay scale. Big cities pay much higher than small towns. Plumbing is just the start. There are many other related licenses (if your state requires them) that you can attain which may increase your value to an employer. Honestly you probably won’t be rich unless you own an established company, but you’ll be comfortable if you’re responsible with your money.
Do I need to be “in shape” to be a Plumber?
Well, technically no, but it helps. It is a very physical job and the healthier you are, the easier things will be for you, and the people you’re working with. As an apprentice you’ll likely be tasked with digging, carrying and lifting, so the more fit you are the better. Also, being overweight will amplify the physical toll that being a plumber can have on your body.
I’m a girl, can I be a Plumber?
Yes! I know a few female Plumbers. I imagine it would be more difficult for female Plumbers because of the general atmosphere of construction trades and the ratio of men to women. That won’t change unless you ladies apply to jobs and learn the trade though, so go for it!
Do I have to touch poop?
Well, maybe… But in all reality it depends on the type of plumbing you’re doing. If you’re doing new construction the chances of touching poop are very low as you’ll be installing brand new piping systems. Service calls are much more likely to involve human dookie because often times you’re freeing blockages and repairing faulty plumbing systems. Personally I very rarely have to deal with doodoo as I do a lot of new construction and remodel work. But your mileage will vary. Ask what type of jobs your prospective company takes on and go from there.
I come from I.T. and have no experience working with my hands, does that matter?
No. There’s several guys at my shop that were hired with zero plumbing experience and are being trained and put through school to get their license. Does it help to have some experience, of course, but I wouldn’t say it’s necessary. A lot of jobs can help you being a Plumber because it involves a little bit of everything. There is a lot of problem solving. The most important thing is that you like to learn, and learn from your mistakes.
Okay, I want to pursue this, where do I start?
Well there is a lot of variables, age, location, experience etc… First you need to decide whether you’ll join a union shop or an “open” shop. I have no experience with unions so maybe someone else can chime in on this one (if the post wasn’t locked :-/). From what i hear, unions are difficult to get into and subject to nepotism. Once you’re in they have good benefits and pay very well. Some unions are also much more busy than others, Boston MA for example is very busy with all the new buildings going up. Union shops tend to work on larger projects which can last months/years which can have you doing the same task over and over again. You can find more information about unions and locate one close to your area here.
A family run shop is the method I’ve personally had success with. Your best bet to find one of these jobs is by going to craigslist/indeed and looking in your area for shops looking for apprentices or helpers. If you’re really motivated you can go to your local Plumbing supply store and ask if any of the companies in the area are hiring. Many will say experience preferred but will train the right candidate. These types of shops tend to focus on smaller projects, custom homes and service calls. The job you’re doing can be different every day.
Another type of company that is always looking for “plumbers” is the RotoRooter type companies. This might be the quickest way to get into the trade. My suggestion would be to avoid these types of companies. It’s usually very dirty jobs and they work on commission. There’s a lot of pressure to make sales, and a lot of the time they’ll lie to customers about things that need to be replaced just to get a bigger check. That’s no way to do business. I know this is a generalization and some people have a lot of success, but it’s my opinion based on what people say who are in the business.
There’s a college that offers an accelerated plumbing class, should I take that?
No, I wouldn’t suggest it. These courses charge thousands more than a traditional trade school class and teach you the same material. They also may require you to take additional non plumbing related classes which is a waste of time. The few guys I know that have taken these types of classes are well…not the best plumbers. Not to say that you’re dumb if that’s the path you did take, just sharing my personal experience. Don’t waste your money on online courses either. The best education you can get is from working hands on, in the field. If you want additional education before you start at a company it would be beneficial to study up on the different types of fittings/materials/tools that are used for Plumbing.
What should I expect on an interview?
Don’t wear a suit and tie. Some people will tell you different things. Personally I think the safest option is to make sure your clothes are clean and presentable. Your fashion sense isn’t high on the list of qualifications so don’t sweat it. Some interviews can be very informal, some might be more professional. It depends on the company. They may ask you to take a drug test/physical. Don’t do drugs. No one will want to work with you if you’re always high. Be ready to start working ASAP.
My first day is tomorrow, what should i do to prepare?
Make sure you show up well rested/sober/on time. First impressions are very important as with any job. Try to listen and watch as much as you can. Always ask questions if you’re unsure of something. Work hard and show your boss that you’re serious about the job. There’s nothing more frustrating than having your helper looking at his phone while you need something, keep it in your pocket until break time!
BRING BASIC HAND TOOLS. Here is a list in order of importance that you’ll want to have on your first day:
1. Tape measure
2. Marker/Pencil
3. PPE (Gloves, Safety Glasses, Boots, Knee pad)
Wear sturdy work shoes and appropriate clothing!
This should get you through your first day. Plumbers use a ridiculous amount of tools, there’s a tool for everything. Most companies will supply power tools but require you to buy basic hand tools. Start out buying the basics. Everyone’s needs will be different but here’s a list of basic tools that I keep in my tool bag/pockets that I take on every job. Tape measure, sharpie, pencil, torpedo level, knive(s), hammer, two pairs of pump pliers, adjustable wrenches of varying sizes, philips screwdriver, flathead screwdriver, beater flathead, 6 in 1 screwdriver, flashlight, torque wrench, speed square, tubing cutter, mini cutter, pipe dope, teflon tape, electrical tape, pex cutter. Again everyone is different and you will eventually need to have a lot more tools, this is just a general list.
If you like to learn you can make this a satisfying career and maybe make a little money in the process.
Ultimately I am just some guy on the internet, and if you are actually serious about plumbing as a career you should do research on your own because things could be different where you live! YouTube is a good resource for general knowledge. Try to learn about other trades too!
