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Get to know about the duties, responsibilities, qualifications, and skills requirements of a plumber. Feel free to use our plumber job description template to produce your own. We also provide you with information about the salary you can earn as a plumber.

 

Who is a Plumber?

A plumbing system is a set of pipes and fittings built in a building for the distribution and use of potable (drinking) water as well as the removal of waterborne wastes. Water and sewage systems that serve a group of buildings or a city are usually identified. Within buildings, plumbing devices were created to handle potable water and water-borne waste. Showers, bathtubs, lavatory basins, and toilets are all considered plumbing fixtures, as are washing machines, garbage disposal units, hot-water heaters, dishwashers, and drinking fountains. A plumbing system’s water-carrying pipes and other materials must be sturdy, noncorrosive, and long-lasting enough to match or beyond the estimated life of the building in which they are installed. Toilets, urinals, and lavatories usually are made of stable porcelain or vitreous china, although They’re made of glazed cast iron, steel, or stainless steel in some cases. Water pipes are typically composed of steel, copper, brass, plastic, or other benign materials, while sewage pipes are typically made of cast iron, steel, copper, or asbestos cement.

A plumber is a tradesperson who specializes in the installation and maintenance of plumbing systems for potable (drinking) water, sewage, and drainage. He’s a pipe installer and maintainer for our houses and businesses. These pipes must be erected and maintained for a variety of purposes, including potable water, drainage, irrigation, and sewage. Plumbers can do hands-on labor or work in a design role, producing designs and assisting in the efficiency of the installation process. This is a profession that offers a wide range of career options. Because there is less competition, some of the greatest paying jobs are in the most unique specialties. A plumbing professional is aware of construction norms and safety requirements and strives to ensure that they are followed. Because the regulations governing this trade differ according to where you reside and can be difficult for a layperson to understand, legal skills can also be a part of the plumbing. Other more sophisticated parts of plumbing include the ability to test pipes for leaks using air pressure and other gauges, as well as the ability to design new pipe systems by cutting, fitting, measuring, and threading pipes. Plumbers diagnose pipe systems that aren’t working properly and repair or replace worn-out parts. They may need to suspend steel supports from ceiling joints to hold the pipes in place, which necessitates fitting, measuring, and cutting pipes to fit using pipe cutters and saws. Soldering may be required when working with copper pipes.

Plumbers come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Knowing what these sorts do can assist you in deciding what type of plumber you wish to be. The following are the most common categories of plumbers:

1. Commercial plumbers: Commercial plumbers are licensed specialists that work in commercial plumbing situations. Many commercial plumbers specialize in working with industrial equipment and work in schools, hospitals, colleges, and manufacturing plants. In business settings, this type of plumber is in charge of installing, maintaining and repairing tanks and pipes. Commercial plumbers are skilled in working with huge numbers of outlets and pipes, as well as on many floors. Residential plumbers, on the other hand, are typically contracted to work on one or two plumbing fixtures in a single home. Business plumbers are capable of dealing with a wide range of issues and must stay current on commercial plumbing codes. This type of plumber is frequently called upon to address a variety of difficulties in commercial facilities, including the removal of enormous volumes of trash and the installation of large-scale water systems. Their responsibilities are usually substantially broader than those of a normal home plumber. As a result, commercial plumbers are frequently far more skilled and knowledgeable about a wide range of plumbing problems than home plumbers.
2. Service and repair plumber: Plumbers that specialize in service and repair work on plumbing systems in both residential and commercial settings are known as service and repair plumbers. This type of plumber typically acquires experience through both technical and on-the-job training. Fixing leaks, regulating low pressure, removing blockages, and cleaning plumbing systems and fixtures are all common tasks for a service and repair plumber.
3. Residential plumber: Installing, maintaining, and repairing plumbing fixtures and concerns in a domestic setting is the specialty of residential plumbers. Domestic plumbers spend the majority of their work installing pipe systems, doing small-scale plumbing jobs, and repairing residential plumbing systems. They work with plumbing systems such as pipes, water systems, and toilets, and can usually resolve any plumbing difficulties that arise in a home. Working as an apprentice under a more experienced plumber is a common way for a residential plumber to develop experience and skill. These plumbers might work as individual plumbers or for a corporation once they have gained experience in their field.
4. Sanitary plumber: A sanitary plumber is a plumbing expert who specializes in sanitary plumbing techniques. Because most residential plumbing difficulties involve the home’s sanitary system, this is the most typical sort of plumber employed. Unblocking and cleaning sanitary system jams, installing toilet and bathroom pipes, fitting suspended drains, and managing plumbing installations such as bathtubs and toilets are all common sanitary plumber responsibilities. Water heating systems and boilers can also be installed in showers and toilets by sanitary plumbers.

5: Water supply plumber: Plumbers who operate with water supply systems such as water tanks, kitchen tanks, bathroom tanks, overhead storage tanks, and pipes are known as water supply plumbers. Installing various water supply systems in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms, as well as fitting surplus pipes and sanitation systems, are all common tasks for water supply plumbers. Basic home plumbing tasks, such as unclogging kitchen and bathroom drains and toilets, are also performed by certain water supply plumbers.

Plumbers that are skilled at resolving issues and finding the root of a plumbing issue are in high demand. They evaluate the blueprints of a structure and how people use the space when determining the best way to install new pipes. Plumbers that are successful communicate openly with others, describing the cost and purpose of various repairs and updates, as well as the timeframe for each plumbing project. Despite the filthy nature of plumbing, great plumbers are clean and organized at all times, cleaning up after themselves and keeping their supplies in order.

 

Plumber Job Description

Below are the plumber job description examples you can use to develop your resume or write a plumber job description for your employee. Employers can also use it to sieve out job seekers when choosing candidates for interviews.

The duties and responsibilities of a plumber include the following:

• Understand or plan the layout of plumbing, waste disposal, and water supply systems by reading blueprints and drawings.
• Cut, assemble, and install pipes and tubes with care, taking into account existing infrastructure (e.g. electrical wiring)
• Install and maintain water supply systems.
• Replace or repair broken drainage lines, clogged drains, and faucets, among other things.
• Repair household appliances (such as washing machines) and fixtures (such as sinks), among other things.
• Installs and maintains (air-conditioning units, radiators etc.) gas and liquid heating systems.
• Install well-functioning DWV systems for waste disposal and sanitary systems.
• Ensure that pipes and tubes are assembled and installed without interfering with existing infrastructure.
• Measure, cut, and bend pipe materials.
• Assemble the water system’s valves, fittings, tubes, and appliances.
• Install and manage the water systems in your building.
• Troubleshoot and resolve problems with water supply lines.
• Maintain current knowledge of state regulations affecting plumbing work.
• Repair and replace system issues such as clogged drains, faucet problems, broken drainage lines, and so on.
• Communicate effectively with clients to ensure their pleasure.
• Communicate effectively with team members and coworkers.
• Inspect plumbing systems that have been previously installed at business and residential locations.
• Maintain a to-do list
• Keep detailed records of the work you’ve done at different project sites.
• Provide clients with information on how to maintain their plumbing systems.
• Respond to general contractor calls regarding plumbing concerns.
• Maintain current safety regulations and criteria for the numerous plumbing systems that a business builds and maintains.
• Work diligently to guarantee that all installed systems pass inspections by adhering to all current plumbing requirements.

 

Qualifications

• A high school diploma or a GED is required.
• Apprenticeship with a trained plumber completed successfully
• Strong understanding of plumbing systems, materials, and equipment Proven experience working as a plumber in a fast-paced workplace
• Working understanding of state regulations that apply to plumbing work is essential.
• Customer service that is second to none and a commitment to the client
• Excellent analytical and troubleshooting skills Familiarity with plumbing tools and equipment
• Excellent interpersonal and verbal communication abilities
• To perform plumbing, you must have a valid license.
• Level 2 Intermediate Plumbing Diploma is suggested if you have a good understanding of current field rules.
• It’s preferable to have a Level 3 Advanced Plumbing Diploma.

 

Essential Skills

When it comes to applying for jobs, there are particular abilities that employers look for in plumbing candidates. Here are some of the most important talents for a plumber to have:

1. Manual Dexterity and Physical Strength

Working with pipes, which is often done in limited locations, necessitates the strength to support pipework, appliances, or toilets, as well as the ability to hold pipe fittings firm while manipulating small things. To thread fittings, read minuscule gauges, and understand schematics, you’ll need good vision. Plumbers must do the following physical skills and abilities:

• Getting into Confined Spaces
• Adhesives, Sealants, and Caulk application
• Sewer Lines cleaning
• Hand and Arm Strength
• Installing appliances such as refrigerators, dishwashers, water softeners, and water heaters.
• Installing Pipe Systems for Gas, Water, Steam, and Other Liquids
• Dexterity in the hands
• Precision
• Tolerating potentially dangerous, noisy, or unpleasant working conditions.
• Using Soldering Techniques
• Utilizing tools to assemble components
• Welding

2. Mechanical Know-How

Understanding how plumbing systems work is necessary when dealing with water pressure. Plumbing careers require training from trade schools, community colleges, and on-the-job training as an apprentice. To practice independently, most states need a plumber to be licensed. Though criteria vary by location, most licenses require two to five years of experience and the passing of an exam that covers trade knowledge as well as an understanding of local codes and regulations. Plumbers can use their mechanical skills to do things like:

• Applying Algebra
• Applying Geometry
• Applying Principles of Hydronics
• Choosing the Right Tools for the Job
• Fixing Leaking and Clogged Lines
• Installing Sinks and Faucets
• Interpreting Blueprints
• Mechanical Reasoning
• Performing Pressure Tests on Pipe Systems
• Plumbing Installations
• Plumbing Repairs / Repairing Pipe Systems
• Pursue Ongoing Learning about New Systems and Materials
• Replacing Defective Parts.

3. Troubleshooting and Problem-Solving Skills

Because plumbing issues can be quite serious at times, plumbers must have the perseverance to see the task through to completion. Plumbers must be able to locate, diagnose, and resolve issues. Working alone means you’ll have to figure out the cause of problems on your own and rely on self-motivation to stay on track. The following are what are needed for strong problem-solving skills, analytical and logical reasoning abilities, and meticulous attention to detail.

• Calculate the basics of mathematics.
• Troubleshoot plumbing and piping issues.
• Determine the source of the issue.
• After the systems have been installed, inspect them.
• Make a project plan.
• Produce realistic project cost estimates.
• Troubleshoot any problems with the system.

4. Business and administrative skills in general

If you opt to work as an independent contractor, you’ll need to be familiar with the following business management and administration skills:

• Computer expertise.
• Completing Paperwork and Providing Document Services
• Estimating the Materials Types Needed for Projects
• Keeping Accounting Records
• Service Agreements are negotiated.
• Promoting a company.
• Purchasing supplies.
• Establishing Service Prices
• Supervising Employees

5. Competencies in Regulatory Compliance

All finished projects, especially in commercial plumbing, will be inspected. Employers and customers will expect you to:

• Follow Safety Protocols on a regular basis.
• Follow and learn building Codes.
• Examine the most recent updates and changes to the state and local plumbing codes.

6. Plumbers’ Soft Skills

You’ll need to be able to communicate and collaborate successfully with clients, team members, and supervisors in addition to the mechanical abilities you learned in your plumbing training and apprenticeship programs. As your career progresses, you can be asked to educate plumbing apprentices. The ability to Follow Directions is one of the “soft skills” you’ll need (both personal and interpersonal). The following are other soft skills required:

• Collaborating with Others in the Grade and in the Construction Industry.
• Customers must be persuaded to invest in new systems.
• Customer service is really important.
• Flexibility
• The person has a pleasant demeanor.
• Working with coworkers and getting along with them.
• Customers are educated on how to use and maintain systems.
• Reliability
• Problem-solving with customers.
• Teamwork
• Training Assistants and Apprentices.

 

How to Become a Plumber

Step 1: Get Your High School Diploma or GED

The plumbing industry relies heavily on math. Individuals who want to be plumbers should have a solid foundation in algebra, geometry, metric units of measure, or thermodynamics. Before looking for plumbing apprenticeships, you might wish to get a college diploma or complete a formal training program. Typically, these courses are given at community colleges or vocational schools. They aren’t essential, but they will help you stand out from the crowd. They could also be beneficial to somebody concerned about prior blunders. Employers may be hesitant to hire apprentices who have failed a drug test, had a DUI, have been convicted of reckless driving, or have been convicted of petty offenses. Enrolling in a plumbing school will assist you in communicating a message and demonstrate a renewed dedication to professionalism and productivity.

Step 2: Enroll in a plumbing apprentice program.

Anyone interested in becoming a licensed plumber should enroll in a plumbing apprenticeship program. On-the-job training will be provided, and trainees will be introduced to topics like as OSHA safety, state codes, blueprint reading, and drafting. Under the guidance of a master plumber, an apprenticeship must be completed. Because apprentices must complete a set amount of hours before taking their license exam, most apprenticeship programs last between two and five years.

Step 3: Learn to work as a journeyman plumber.

To become a journeyman plumber, you must finish an apprenticeship and pass a licensing exam. Journeyman plumbers can operate freely, unlike apprentices, who can only work under the supervision of a master plumber. These people can work in both home and commercial environments. Installing and maintaining sewage disposal and gas lines, as well as fixtures and appliances, are common responsibilities. Individuals must renew their licenses every three to five years, while certain states mandate yearly renewal. These experts have not only learned the fundamentals of the trade, but they are also aware of the local plumbing codes. They should also have strong customer service, management, troubleshooting, and mechanical abilities. Plumbers at this level can earn a median pay of $55,160 per year, or $26.52 per hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Step 4: Advance to the rank of Master Plumber

Becoming a master plumber is the next stage in your career journey. After a set amount of hours working as a journeyman plumber, you’ll be eligible to take the master plumber license exam (typically between two to five years). Master plumbers must meet different standards in different states, so check with your local licensing board to discover what rules apply in your area. Additional classes or plumbing training may be required in some circumstances. To earn the title of a master plumber, candidates must pass a written and practical exam. There are also charges. A background check may also be required in some states. A master plumber will be able to provide more advanced plumbing services, supervise apprenticeship training, manage crews, and provide specialty experience in a certain area of plumbing with this plumbing license. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the top 10% of earners in this trade earn more than $97,170 each year.

 

Where to Work as a Plumber

Plumbers could work for utility corporations, local government agencies, or shipbuilders. Many plumbers are self-employed or work for a small business with less than 10 employees, however, some may prefer to work for larger corporations or the government. Many major buildings, such as school districts, college campuses, airports, and municipal buildings, have their own employees. Another big employer of plumbing specialists in the military, however, prior military service may be required. Simply, anyplace there is or needs to be running water is a potential client opportunity. Even motor vehicles, such as buses, leisure vehicles, huge airplanes, yachts, and cruise ships, require plumbing installation and repair at some point. Plumbers frequently collaborate with architects because they may provide vital insight into the ideal locations for wall passages and fixture placement, saving the architect time and avoiding costly mistakes.

 

Plumber Salary Scale

As of February 25, 2022, the average Plumber salary in the United States is $59,549, while the range frequently ranges between $51,789 and $68,122. Salary ranges rely on a variety of things, including schooling, certifications, supplementary talents, and the number of years you’ve worked in your field. Plumbers in Nigeria typically make roughly 115,000 NGN per month on average. Salaries range from 53,800 NGN to 181,000 NGN (lowest to highest). This is the monthly average pay, which includes housing, transportation, and other benefits. Salary for plumbers varies greatly depending on experience, skills, gender, and location.

Trade and Services

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