Looking for a Lucrative Career? Become a Plumber
Are you tired of being stuck in a manufacturing line or an office cubicle all day long? Are you just finishing high school and looking for a high-paying career but aren't interested in attending a university? Are you good with your hands? Do you like working with people? If you answered yes to these questions, you should look into becoming a plumber.
Benefits of Being a Plumber
There are many advantages of a career as a plumber. Here are just a few:
- High Salary Potential: Journeyman plumbers can make enough to support a family and live comfortably. Master plumbers can earn over $100,000 a year.
- High Demand: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters is projected to grow 16 percent from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations.
- Economic Stability: Consumer demand for plumbing services remains high even during tough economic times. There will always be a need for plumbers. Home or business owners may cut back in other areas, but they will still pay a plumber to come fix a broken toilet.
- Paid Training: Companies will pay you for your work during your apprenticeship. This means you earn money while you are still learning how to do your job, unlike colleges and universities that require you to pay them while you learn.
Requirements and Qualifications
As with any job, there are certain requirements for this career choice. Education requirements include two different schooling levels.
- Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent education such as a GED certificate
- Complete an apprenticeship that lasts from 2 to 5 years, depending on work experience and other specialized training programs
Additional requirements, skills, and character traits include:
- Ability to work well in cramped spaces
- Good manual dexterity
- Comfortable with general math
- People and communication skills
Licensing Requirements
After you have completed your training and education, the next step is to become a licensed plumber. You will need to pass an examination issued by your state. Every state's requirements vary slightly, but most licensing exams require proficient knowledge in specific areas:
- Local plumbing codes
- Plumbing procedures
- Proper choice of materials and fittings for any given job
- How to properly use your tools
Many plumbers choose to go into business for themselves as their careers progress. If being a business owner is a goal of yours, you may want to consider obtaining education and training in business, accounting, or management skills in addition to the necessary plumbing licenses.
Roto-Rooter is North America's largest provider of plumbing repair services and sewer & drain cleaning services. Millions of homeowners and businesses in all 50 states and across Canada rely on Roto-Rooter plumbers every year. The entire Roto-Rooter system, including independent franchise operations, employs about 7,000 people in North America.