When you make the choice to become a Roto-Rooter plumbing technician, you are joining the ranks of some of the most highly skilled and most sought after professionals in the skilled trade services industry. Our plumbers enjoy effective and ongoing training, always finding better solutions to problems and learning the latest innovations while incorporating the latest technology in the plumbing industry.
Despite the common inaccurate image of a man in low-rise pants who crawls under a kitchen sink to repair a leaky pipe, being a plumber requires specialized initial and ongoing training to install and repair the fixtures and appliances that are connected to a home or business’ water system. To be a plumber requires knowledge of building codes, an ability to read blueprints, knowledge of pipe and construction materials, and increasingly, knowledge of water-conservation techniques. We continually reinforce this learning at Roto-Rooter.
There is no uniform national licensing requirement for plumbers but most cities, counties and states do require a plumber to operate under a license, ensuring that plumbers have the appropriate skills of the trade and knowledge of the local plumbing codes and regulations.
Plumbers install and maintain plumbing fixtures like bathtubs, sinks and showers for residential, commercial and industrial clients. They also install and repair water and gas pipes, drainage systems, waste disposal systems and appliances, such as dishwashers and water heaters. Plumbers often work on-call and may have to work nights and weekends. The nature of the job requires travel to multiple work sites on a regular basis. Injuries like cuts or burns are common in this profession. Some plumbers are self-employed and have the freedom to set their own schedules. Full-time and overtime are common for this profession.
Successful plumbers usually have solid math and problem-solving skills, high mechanical aptitude, good manual dexterity and a tolerance for working in cramped spaces. Together, plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters earned a median annual salary of $50,620 in 2015, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Get Training
While a formal training program may not be required to become a plumber, it can aid advancement and teach students useful skills that can come in handy on the job. Many trade or technical schools and community colleges offer formal training programs for aspiring plumbers. These are typically short certificate training programs that last about one year. Coursework covers water supply and drainage systems, as well as piping, venting, fittings and valves. Students can expect to learn plumbing skills and maintenance. They can use this training to begin an apprenticeship as a plumber or go on to earn an associate's degree.
Complete an Apprenticeship
The next step to becoming a plumber is to complete an apprenticeship. Apprenticeship programs are provided by local unions and their affiliates, as well as by non-union contractors. These programs last from 4 to 5 years and combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction, which can be either paid or unpaid. On-the-job training should total anywhere from 1,700 to 2,000 hours per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Apprentices learn local plumbing codes, as well as all types of plumbing procedures, from primary installation of plumbing fixtures to repair and maintenance of water pipes. Trainees also gain special plumbing skills, such as choosing materials and plumbing fittings, identifying grades and types of pipes and using the tools of their trade.
Get Licensed
Most states require that plumbers be licensed, although there are no national uniform licensing standards. In most states, plumbers must have 2 to 5 years of work experience before they can take an examination and obtain a license. The exam requires applicants to know all the local codes for plumbing. In some states, plumbers who plan to work on gas lines will need to acquire an additional license.
The licensing exam assesses an applicant's knowledge of plumbing codes and practices. Some states may offer exam outlines that can be used as study guides. It is important for those who wish to become licensed to take advantage of study materials and ask questions while working as apprentices.
Get Certified
In addition to apprenticeship and licensure, plumbers may choose to earn certification. While certification is not required, it might help plumbers advance in their profession and take advantage of new job opportunities. In response to a growing awareness of the need to conserve water, the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association has teamed with GreenPlumbers USA to train and certify plumbers in water and energy efficiency technologies. National Inspection Testing Certification (NITC) also offers the Journey Level Plumber certification. Having certification in these areas may give plumbers an edge and open up higher level or better paying employment opportunities.
To recap, plumbers need to have a high school diploma or a GED and complete an apprenticeship before they can gain licensure. Earning some postsecondary education and gaining certification can also put professionals ahead in this field.
