Plumbers Description OES Code: 875020 Assemble, install, alter, and repair pipe systems (metal, plastic, ceramic, composition, etc.) that carry water, steam, air, or other liquids or gases. CA Wages/hour:nonunion median range New, no experience: $8.00 minimum – $14.38 New, experienced: $13.00 minimum – $13.00 3 yrs+ experience: $16.00 $7.00 – $25.00 CA Wages/hour:union median range New, no experience: $10.00 $7.00 – $16.00 New, experienced: $22.00 $8.00 – $45.00 3 yrs+ experience: $32.00 $14.00 – $45.00 Wages vary widely, depending upon geographic location, the company size, and whether the employer is unionized. Union apprentices usually start at 35 to 50 percent of the basic hourly level wage, plus fringe benefits. Local Wages • CCOIS Survey • OES Survey Hours & Benefits The work week for union Plumbers varies with the union local. Most Plumbers work a 35- to 40-hour week. Overtime is usually paid at double the regular basic rate. Most employer benefits include medical and dental insurance in addition to vacation. Many employers provide vision, retirement and life insurance. Employment Trends Employment 1996 26,170 Projected Employment 2006 29,970 Growth Rate 1996-2006 14.5% Openings due to Separations 6,100 Employment Trends by California County The number of Plumbers is expected to increase at about the same rate as the average of all occupations. Advancement Upon completion of apprenticeship programs, apprentice Plumbers advance to journey-level pay scales and responsibilities. In large firms, a journey- level Plumber may advance to supervisor or superintendent. Self-employment as a plumbing contractor is also a possibility. Persons with considerable experience in plumbing may become Plumbing Inspectors. Getting the Job & Other Information Job announcements usually appear in newspapers, and are sent to vocational schools and other places where candidates are to be found. Experienced Plumbers involved in construction work are dispatched to jobs by their union local on a first-in, first-out basis. For current job listings, browse CalJOBS or America's Job Bank.

Click arrow at bottom left of image to begin. Requires QuickTime Education and Training Although some Plumbers learn their skills informally on the job, most complete an apprenticeship program. Apprenticeship programs vary but generally last four to five years. The program consists of full time supervised on-the-job training and concurrent classroom instruction. The required courses include drafting, blueprint reading, mathematics and studying local plumbing codes and regulations. Upon completion of the program, apprentices must pass a union-administered trade test and a city licensing test regulated by the California State Division of Apprenticeship Standards. Candidates for the apprenticeship program must possess a high school diploma or its equivalent, and must pass aptitude tests. Some programs require candidates to have some related experience, mechanical interests, and a stable school record and work history. Usually, unions accept applications for apprenticeship programs each spring. When program enrollment is sufficient to fill job openings, unions may not accept applications until occupational demand is up. Further information on apprenticeship programs can be obtained from local unions and the closest office of the California Department of Industrial Relations, Division of Apprenticeship Standards. Skills & Other Requirements Plumbers must have good manual dexterity to use the required tools and equipment. Knowledge of drafting, blueprint reading, building regulations and basic mathematics is required for journey-level work. Plumbers supply their own work clothing and small hand tools. Power tools and safety helmets are usually provided by the employer. References Note: The references below (and/or on other parts of this page) will link to pages on the internet outside the Career Video system. California Occupational Guide: Plumbers #173 Related Occupation: Welders & Cutters 84, Stationary Engineers #234, Water & Wastewater Treatment Plant operators #443, Machinery Maintenance Mechanics #136 Training: California State Training Inventory © State of California EDD/LMID, US Department of Labor Unless indicated otherwise, wage data is based on Statewide aggregated CCOIS survey responses between 1995 and 1997. Questions or Comments? Contact us.