In this article, we will take a look at some of the highest-paying plumbing jobs. There is always a need for the essential service of plumbing.
In order to install, maintain, and repair the water and sewage systems in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings, skilled plumbers are required. There are lots of opportunities for career advancement and high earning potential in the plumbing sector.
What are plumbing jobs?
Plumbing jobs typically involve installing, maintaining, and repairing various systems that involve the use of pipes and fixtures for the distribution of water, gas, and sewage in buildings and homes. Plumbers work on a variety of tasks, such as installing and repairing water heaters, toilets, sinks, faucets, showers, and other plumbing fixtures.
11 of the highest-paying plumbing jobs
Here are some of the highest-paying plumbing jobs:
Plumbing Project Manager
Large plumbing projects, which can include both new construction and renovations, are managed by a plumbing project manager. They are responsible for making sure the project is finished on schedule, within budget, and to the client’s satisfaction.
To communicate with clients, contractors, and other stakeholders, the project manager must possess excellent communication skills. A plumbing project manager’s average yearly salary ranges from $72,000 to $93,000.
Piperfitter
A pipefitter manages pipe installation jobs by drawing up blueprints and following client specifications. They manipulate materials like carbon and stainless steel using methods like welding, cutting, and soldering.
While pipefitters frequently install new systems, they can also analyze and improve upon existing ones by addressing pressure inefficiencies. These specialists usually deal with nonhazardous systems, like those for water. Pipefitters can earn between $50,000 and $90,000 per year.
Plumbing Engineer
A plumbing engineer is responsible for building systems’ drainage and water supply. They collaborate with other engineers to create structures that efficiently transport waste and provide water. Although they may also be experts in sewer drains, stormwater management, or fire suppression systems, a lot of these professionals concentrate on bathroom amenities.
Plumbing engineers put safety first by following local laws and making sure building occupants have access to clean water. Plumbing engineers can earn between $65,000 and $120,000 per year.
Plumbing Technician
A plumbing technician is an expert in the fixtures and pipes that bring water or gas to a building, transport waste from it, or both. Plumbers evaluate properties, suggest the best systems, and give customers quotes, whether they work with residential or commercial clients.
To ensure the long lifespan of their systems, these experts perform regular maintenance and obtain permits before starting projects. Additionally, they follow local regulations, respond to plumbing emergencies, and check equipment. A plumbing technician’s yearly salary ranges from $39,000 to $88,000.
Drain Technician
A drain technician is an expert in plumbing who focuses on sewer system pipes and valves. They can take care of clogs in sinks, toilets, and bathtubs in both residential and commercial buildings. Electric snakes and high-velocity jets are among the tools these experts frequently use, though they may also use sewer cameras to identify more complex issues. Expert drain technicians can fix frozen pipes using steam thawing or excavation techniques to fix underground sewers. A drain technician’s average annual salary ranges from $38,000 to $89,000.
Pipe Fabricator
A pipe fabricator is a professional who specializes in creating and assembling pipe products. Fabricators specialize in creating piping systems for the plumbing sector. These experts might produce systems in large quantities for commercial use or develop unique designs for specific clients.
Pipe fabricators are able to carry out their tasks thanks to a variety of tools, including pipe benders, forklifts, and thermal cutting equipment. Pipe fabricators’ average annual salary ranges from $30,000 to $52,000.
Service Technician
For a plumbing company, a service technician completes installations, maintenance checks, and repairs. When a client reports a plumbing issue, technicians go to that client’s residence or place of business to identify the issue and implement the best fix.
They might suggest a completely new system or just finish a quick fix. Additionally, technicians meet with new clients to install plumbing systems for their buildings. The average annual salary of service technicians ranges from $54,000 to $67,000.
Master Plumber
A master plumber is a highly qualified expert who has completed extensive plumbing system training and education. They have the necessary licenses to plan, erect, and fix plumbing systems in both residential and commercial structures. They must be able to solve challenging plumbing issues and have a thorough understanding of plumbing laws and regulations. A master plumber typically earns $40,000 to $70,000 annually.
Boilermaker
A tradesperson who installs and maintains water storage tanks is known as a “boilermaker.” For customers ranging from railroad companies to steel factories and oil refineries, they might build furnaces, heat exchangers, or water towers.
These experts translate blueprints, carry out welding operations, supervise crane operators, and check boiler systems for leaks. Boilermakers ensure customers have access to water and different chemicals by working with plumbing experts. The average boilermaker’s annual salary ranges from $48,000 to $80,000.
Plumbing Sales Representative
Plumbing sales representatives sell plumbing products and services to businesses and individuals. They must be fluent communicators and knowledgeable about plumbing supplies and services. Salespeople in the plumbing industry can make between $60,000 and $120,000 annually.
Plumbing Supervisor
Plumbing project managers manage plumbing jobs from beginning to end. They supervise groups of plumbers, guarantee that the work complies with safety and building codes, and interact with clients and other stakeholders. The annual salary range for a plumbing supervisor is $55,000 to $95,000.
Platforms to Find Plumbing Jobs
There are several platforms where you can find plumbing jobs. Some popular ones include:
- Upwork
- Indeed
- Monster
- ZipRecruiter
- Craigslist
- Plumber jobs
- HomeAdvisor
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of education or training do I need to become a plumber?
Typically, plumbers must complete an apprenticeship program that combines in-class instruction and practical experience. In some states, plumbers must also possess a license, which frequently involves passing an exam.
What are some important skills for a plumber to have?
In addition to having strong problem-solving abilities, plumbers should also have excellent communication skills and a thorough knowledge of plumbing materials and systems. Additionally, they must be physically capable of working in small spaces and in good shape.
What are some common tools that plumbers use?
Wrenches, pliers, pipe cutters, soldering torches, and drain snakes are just some of the equipment that plumbers use.
