Skilled Trades
Plumbing Apprentice
Plumbing apprentices are hands-on, problem-solving people who enjoy working with tools and systems that keep water and waste flowing properly. This role suits practical individuals who are reliable, safety-minded, and willing to learn a skilled trade. No prior experience or college degree is needed. It’s an excellent path for job seekers seeking paid training and long-term stability in a high-demand field with strong earning potential.
Median wage
$30.67/hr
Physical demands
high
Drug test
Varies by employer
National wages & job outlook
National figures for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters, shown as published by the source below.
Entry (10th–25th pct)
$21.22–$24.13/hr
Median
$30.67/hr
Experienced (75th–90th pct)
$40.92–$52.13/hr
Projected openings / year
44,000
+5% growth, 2024–2034
Wage data: 2025. National figures; local pay varies.
Source: CareerOneStop (careeronestop.org), sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment & Training Administration (DOLETA), and the Minnesota Department of Employment & Economic Development (DEED).
Starting requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Basic math and mechanical aptitude
- Good physical condition for lifting and tight spaces
- Valid driver’s license and clean record
- Strong safety attitude and willingness to train
Training structure
You enter a paid apprenticeship program that typically lasts 4 to 5 years. It combines on-the-job learning with classroom instruction in plumbing codes, pipe systems, safety, and installation. Programs are often sponsored by unions or contractors, allowing you to earn while you learn and prepare for licensing.
Top credentials
- Journeyman Plumber License
- Backflow Certification
- Medical Gas Certification
- OSHA 10
Licenses & certifications
Licenses are state-specific and certifications vary by specialty. Look up the exact ones for this path in your state.
Open the license & certification finderAdvancement path
Entry: Plumbing apprentice (paid training)
Journeyman: Licensed plumber after completing apprenticeship
Advanced: Master plumber, supervisor, contractor, or business owner
This clear path offers regular raises and excellent long-term career growth.
Typical employers
Plumbing contractors, construction firms, facilities and maintenance teams
A day in the life
You work under experienced plumbers, helping install pipes, fixtures, and drainage systems in homes and buildings. Tasks include measuring, cutting pipes, fitting parts, and learning troubleshooting. The work mixes indoor and outdoor sites and gives you hands-on learning while contributing to real projects. Days are active and build toward a rewarding skilled trade.