🔧 Skilled Trades ↑ 2% growth · Average

Plumber / Pipefitter

Plumbers install and repair water, gas, and waste systems in buildings. Pipefitters work on high-pressure industrial pipe systems for process plants, power stations, and refineries. Master Plumbers are the entrepreneurs of the trades — owning a plumbing company is a real path to $500K+/year.

$60,090 Median Salary
528K US Jobs
4–5 years (apprenticeship) Training
$0–$8,000 Typical Cost

💰 Salary & Earning Potential

Salary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Figures represent national averages — local wages vary by state, city, and employer.

Entry Level
$39,000
Median
$60,090
Experienced
$97,000
Want your state's salary? Select a state below to see local wage data, demand, and training programs.

📈 Job Outlook

2%
Projected Growth (10yr)
Average
528K
Total US Jobs
Active positions nationwide
Journeyman or Master Plumber License
Required Credential
Journeyman or Master Plumber License (state)

🎓 Training & Education

Typical Program
Plumbing Apprenticeship (UA) or Trade School
Program Length
4–5 years (apprenticeship)
Typical Tuition
$0–$8,000
Work Setting
Residential, commercial construction, industrial, service/repair
🏆 Credential Required: Journeyman or Master Plumber License (state)

☀️ Day in the Life

A typical day as a Plumber / Pipefitter involves working closely with clients and colleagues in a Residential environment. You'll apply your training daily while building expertise and advancing your career.

⚖️ Pros & Cons

Advantages

  • ✅ Strong job security
  • ✅ Rewarding work
  • ✅ Clear career progression
  • ✅ Growing demand

Challenges

  • ⚠️ Can be physically demanding
  • ⚠️ May require ongoing certification
  • ⚠️ Entry-level wages vary by region

🏫 Schools Offering This Program

Community College
⭐ 93

Los Angeles Trade-Technical College

📍 Los Angeles, CA

Founded 1925 as Frank Wiggins Trade School. Oldest of the 9 LACCD colleges. Strong apprenticeship pathways and industry ...

Nursing (RN)LVNDental HygieneRadiologic TechnologyHVAC
Continuing Education/Vocational
⭐ 87

San Diego College of Continuing Education

📍 San Diego, CA

Tuition-free noncredit career training for adults. Hands-on classes in skilled trades, healthcare, and technology. Part ...

CNAMedical AssistingHVACElectricalPlumbing
Technical College
⭐ 92

Emily Griffith Technical College

📍 Denver, CO

Named one of USA Today's Top 250 Vocational Schools; Denver's iconic public technical college with nearly 50 career-trai...

Nursing (CNA/LPN)Dental AssistingMedical AssistingPharmacy TechHVAC
Community College
⭐ 86

Red Rocks Community College

📍 Lakewood, CO

West Denver metro community college with strong HVAC, plumbing, and healthcare programs; PHCC Colorado recommends it for...

Nursing (RN/CNA)Medical AssistingPharmacy TechHVACPlumbing

🗺️ Plumber / Pipefitter by State

See local salary data, licensing requirements, and schools in your state: