Nearly all areas of construction rely on plumbers. If you enjoy working with your hands and problem-solving, then this trade is for you. There will always be a need for reliable plumbers. Plumbers install, repair and maintain drainage and water systems in residential, commercial and/or industrial buildings. This may seem like an unpleasant job, but plumbers are very important, and well-paid for their work.
Make a Difference
A Typical Day
- Review blueprints, building codes, or specifications to determine work details or procedures.
- Locate and mark the position of pipe installations, connections, passage holes, or fixtures in structures.
- Assemble pipe sections, tubing, or fittings, using couplings, clamps, cement, plastic solvent, caulking, or soldering, brazing, or welding equipment.
- Install pipe assemblies, fittings, valves, appliances such as dishwashers or water heaters, or fixtures such as sinks or toilets and test for leaks.
- Maintain or repair plumbing by replacing defective washers, replacing or mending broken pipes, or opening clogged drains.
- Install underground storm, sanitary, or water piping systems, extending piping as needed to connect fixtures and plumbing.
Recommended Credentials
2 year degree + apprenticeship
Education & Training
Regional employers often hire graduates of these programs.
Northwest Lower Michigan
Construction Technology Degrees and Certificates
— Northwest Michigan College
Elsewhere in Michigan
Center for Certification Training & Testing
— Ferris State University
Plumbing and Pipe Fitting
— Macomb Community College
Industrial Training Program
— Washtenaw Community College
Explore This Career
Try it before you buy it!
Job shadow plumbing installation or repair at a family/friend's home or business.
The Local Advantage Learning Pathway
Pathway 1
Northwest Education Services' Career Tech Center Construction Trades to understand the industry and seek plumbing assistant work
Pathway 2
NMC 2-yr degree: A.S. in Construction Technology
or
Certificate in Electrical/Plumbing (ex. if have a different degree already)
Pathway 3
Get apprenticeship with U.A. Local 85, including certification to be a
- Journeyperson license
- Journey-level pipefitter/steamfitter
- UPC Journeyman Plumber
Sample Employers in Our Region
Click the logos below to learn more.
.png "Precision Plumbing & Heating Systems"){kind=logo}
TIP
Contact one of these companies and ask for an informational interview, to see if you can job shadow, or to find out if they hire interns.
Sample Job Titles...
- craftsman
- journeyman
- pipe fitter
- artisan
- artificer
- steamers
Hear It From The Pros
10-Year Job Growth Projections
Employed Regionally
Wage Range & Median 10-County Region
Annual Hires Regionally
Other Regional Career Resources
Real World Career Pathways
It doesn't have to be a straight shot! Hear from people who have taken unique pathways.