Plumbers install, repair, and maintain piping systems for water, gas, and waste removal. They can work in residential, commercial, or municipal settings, and typically begin as apprentices before becoming licensed master plumbers. Licensing requirements vary by country.
Plumbers are tradesmen who install, repair, and maintain piping systems and related fittings. These systems may include water distribution, sanitary waste removal, or even steam and gas distribution. Plumbers are also responsible for vent and drain piping, as well as piping used in heating and cooling systems.
Candidates who are looking for plumbing work can find jobs with many different types of companies. Residential plumbing companies install new plumbing systems in single-family and multi-family homes and apartments. They are also called upon to correct clogged pipes or other problems when the system fails to perform properly. Those considering residential plumbing work should be prepared for irregular hours as they may be on call overnight or on weekends and holidays.
Commercial plumbing professionals install new pipes and fittings in commercial buildings such as schools and hospitals. Some plumbers may focus on general plumbing and plumbing, while others specialize in sprinkler systems or gas piping. Candidates who cannot find plumbing work in residential or commercial areas may also want to consider government or municipal jobs. City and state governments hire plumbers to install new water and sewer systems and also to act as inspectors of systems installed by others. Municipal plumbing work often involves large-scale piping and more complex plumbing systems.
The path to employment as a plumber is quite common in much of the world. Candidates begin as apprentices, where they learn their trade through classroom and on-the-job training. An apprentice cannot work without the supervision of a more experienced plumber. To become an apprentice, candidates can follow programs set up by local unions or trade schools. Depending on the region, an apprenticeship program can last from two to five years.
Once an apprentice has successfully completed their training, they can act as a traveler. A traveling plumber can work unsupervised and can also supervise and train others. After a period of time in that role, the traveler can pursue licensure or certification as a master plumber. This normally requires a certain number of years of work, along with successfully completing an exam. A master plumber can perform almost any type of plumbing job and is also able to obtain building permits.
In the US, plumbing licenses and certification are granted by individual states. Requirements may differ slightly, but most licenses are transferable between US states. In the UK, plumbing licensing is overseen by the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineers. Most European nations also have their own licensing programs and organizations for plumbers.
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