There are various parameters that govern the earning potential of a plumber and this article shares detailed information about various dimensions of this profession.
Unless our homes and drainage systems are not confronted with the problems of leakage or any other fault in the water piping systems, we rarely realize the crucial role of plumbers in our lives. Apparently not a very recognized profession, plumbers are some of the most important professionals that are directly responsible for making our life comfortable and trouble-free.
Like various professions, salary is a concern for the people who wish to enter this field. Fortunately, this job is reciprocated with decent salaries, that have grown up as per the advancements in the general economy. Today, plumbers can earn fairly well and the career opportunities associated with this field have increased, owing to the diverse challenges in the maintenance and management of safe water systems.
Job Description
The major work of plumbers includes the installation and maintenance of water systems, and waste disposal systems in commercial and residential settings. Just think about the network of pipes in a multistory building running underground and then through small spaces reaching to kitchen, bathrooms, etc.
Any small fault in them needs early detection and rectification by plumbers. They are responsible for proper followup of the legislation and building codes. Their responsibilities include:
- Install pipes, tubing, and fittings using couplings, screws, cement, soldering, and brazing, etc.
- Measure, cut, and analyze the dimensions of a pipe that will be required in the installation, and while fixing any problem.
- Carry out the repair work in homes.
- Review building plans to understand and chalk out a plan for starting the plumbing works.
Average Salary
Education and apprenticeship are two crucial elements that must be kept in mind while you are thinking about the earnings of a plumber. To make your base stronger in this field, you must plan out your career, from your high school. Focus on science subjects, with special emphasis on math, algebra, and geometry, helps in analyzing the situations that you may encounter during work.
After the college degree, a four to five year apprenticeship is necessary to gain mastery and in-depth understanding of the job. There are various trade schools and programs that offer training in various forms of plumbing. Before the plumbers start working, they have to get the license issued from the respective state authorities. The salary range varies, as per the work experience:
- 1 to 4 years – USD 30,000 to 45,000
- 4 to 9 years – USD 35,000 to USD 60,000
- 10 to 19 years – USD 38,000 to USD 70,000
- 20 years or more – USD 40,000 to USD 80,000
The wages of a plumber, that is mostly paid on an hourly basis may vary for every state and depends on the complexity of the problem.
Plumbers have to be on their toes daily to address the plumbing problems arising in various places. Often, they have to work in a tough environment and compact spaces. The requirement of a good personality, with effective communication skills, along with strong analytical skills, makes this a challenging profession.