Plumbers
Description OES Code: 87502
Assemble, install, alter, and repair pipe systems (metal, plastic, ceramic, composition, etc.) that carry water, steam, air, or other liquids or gases.

Wages, California
Entry-Level Hourly Wage $12.53
25th Percentile $14.71
50th Percentile $19.86
75th Percentile $26.27

Wages, San Joaquin County
Entry-Level Hourly Wage $12.72
25th Percentile $14.80
50th Percentile $19.47
75th Percentile $25.85

Wages by California County
• OES Survey
• CCOIS 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, California
Employment 1998 31,300
Projected Employment 2008 35,400
Percent Change 1998-2008 13.1%
Separations 1998-2008 4,200

Employment Trends, San Joaquin County
Employment 1999 380
Projected Employment 2006 500
Percent Change 1999-2006 31.6%
Separations 1999-2006 40

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 a list of current job listing, browse CalJOBS or America's Job Bank.

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
California Occupational Guide: #173

Related Occupations: Welders & Cutters, Stationary Engineers

Training: California Training and Education Providers (CTEP)