PLPlumber
PL
Career

Plumber

By the numbers
Typical pay
$63,800 / yr
Education to start
High school diploma or equivalent
Future demand
+4.5% by 2034
People in this job
466K
Figures shown for ·1 O*NET occupation
The work
Watch · day in the life
A day, hour by hour
06:30
Load & plan

Stock the van, review the day's job list, and map the route.

07:15
First call: leak

Crawl under a kitchen sink, run a pressure test, find the culprit pipe.

08:30
Diagnose & decide

Quick patch or full pipe swap? Inspect the wall before committing.

09:15
Cut & fit

Cut, thread, and connect new copper pipe; solder joints tight.

10:30
Client walkthrough

Show the homeowner the fix, explain the cost, answer questions plainly.

11:00
New build install

Read blueprints on-site; rough-in drains, supply lines, and a water heater.

13:30
Code inspection

Walk the inspector through the work; confirm every joint meets local code.

14:30
Emergency call

Burst pipe reported — race over, shut off water, stop the flooding fast.

16:00
Wrap & restock

Log the day's jobs, restock the van, note any parts to order tonight.

Things you do
  • Cut, fit, and connect pipes to build working water systems.
  • Track down leaks, clogs, and broken pipes using cameras and pressure tests.
  • Rush to emergencies like burst pipes or flooded basements at any hour.
  • Read blueprints to plan where pipes, drains, and fixtures will go.
  • Install toilets, sinks, water heaters, and gas lines in homes and buildings.
Decisions you’ll make
  • Is this a quick fix, or is there a bigger problem hiding behind this wall?
  • Is it safe to keep the water on, or do I need to shut it off right now?
  • Should I replace this old pipe while I'm in here, or just patch it?
  • Is this smell a gas leak I need to evacuate for, or something less serious?
  • Can I finish this job up to code with what I have on the truck, or do I need to stop and get parts?
Education Pathways · how you get there
14 in 100 went the college route · 86 in 100 found another way in None, typically
Education mapped from O*NET:Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters · 97% related
If you like this, also look at