Plumber career path & job opportunities

Plumbers typically start our in entry-level positions, like apprentices, before advancing to mid-level positions, like plumbing service technicians.

career snapshot

Median pay

$59,880 ($28.79/hr)

Required degrees

None

10-year job growth

5% (Average)

There are many job opportunities in the plumbing industry. Which you may be able to secure depends on your experience and training.

Here’s a look at some of the possible plumbing career paths you can explore:

Entry-level plumbing positions

Entry level plumbers include plumbing apprentices, employees with no certifications, and employees fresh out of school.

Here are some entry-level plumbing positions:

  • Plumbing Apprentice
  • Plumber’s Assistant
  • Warehouse Associate
  • Residential Trainee
  • Commercial Trainee

Mid-level plumbing positions

Mid-Level plumbers typically have 2-3 years of experience and have the certifications necessary to work independently.

Here are some mid-level plumbing positions:

  • Residential Service Technician
  • Commercial Service Technician
  • Facility Maintenance Technician
  • Estimator

Senior-level plumbing positions

Senior-level plumbers typically have 7-10 years of experience in the plumbing industry.

Here are some senior-level plumbing positions:

  • Residential Contractor
  • Commercial Contractor
  • Facilities Manager
  • Project Manager
  • Code Inspector
  • Plumbing Inspector

Once you gain enough experience, opening your own plumbing business will become an option. The experience that is necessary will vary by person, but you will generally need 10+ years of experience before starting your own company. This experience will give you time to learn the ins and outs of not only the plumbing side of the company, but also the business side.

There are many benefits to starting your own company. These benefits include being your own boss, a large income potential, the ability to control your own destiny, choosing who you work with, and much more.

>> Learn more: How to Become a Plumber & What It's Like to Be a Plumber