Plumber Typically Have
There are a lot of factors that go into determining how much experience a plumber has. These include education, experience level (apprentice, journeyman or master), type of work, and employer. Generally, plumbers who start out as apprentices earn less than those who advance to journeyman or master status. The apprenticeship usually takes about two to five years and provides a variety of on-the-job training. This is the best way to gain the necessary skills to become a successful plumber and make money. Once an apprentice has gained a certain amount of experience, they can take a licensing exam to become a journeyman plumber.
Plumbing is the installation and repair of pipes and fixtures that carry water or waste into and out of homes, businesses and other buildings. In addition to repairing existing plumbing, plumber are responsible for planning and designing new plumbing systems. They also work alongside architects and construction workers to ensure that the building they are working on meets all safety and code requirements.
The first step in becoming a plumber is earning an education. This can be done by completing a bachelor’s degree in plumbing or by completing a vocational program at a community college or trade school. Having an undergraduate degree is helpful because it will give you the credentials you need to qualify for an apprenticeship or a job as a journeyman plumber.
How Much Experience Does a Plumber Typically Have?
In most states, an apprentice will have to complete at least five years of on-the-job training before being able to sit for a license exam and become a journeyman. Once a journeyman has passed their license, they are able to work independently and take on projects on their own.
Having an associate’s or bachelor’s degree is not required for licensure, but it does provide more credibility to your application and makes you more attractive to potential employers. Depending on the jurisdiction, you may need to pass a state exam before you can be licensed as a plumber.
If you live in New York, you can apply for a plumber’s license in any of the city or county government agencies in the state. Most cities and counties have their own license boards with slightly different licensing processes, but they all require some combination of classroom instruction and hands-on training before you can be certified to do plumbing work.
Most apprenticeship programs take about two to five years, but some can be shorter. After a journeyman has completed their training and gained about five years of on-the-job experience, they can apply for a master plumber’s license. The master plumber is the most senior position and is the highest paid in the profession.
As a Master Plumber, you have the most experience and can work independently to supervise the other plumbers on your team. You also have the most freedom to choose the types of projects you want to complete, which can lead to higher pay. Many master plumbers own their own plumbing businesses. This allows them to choose the hours they work and enjoy a more flexible work schedule.