What They Do

Plumbers install piping for water, gas and medical gas systems. They also install sanitary facilities such as lavatories, toilets, tubs, bathroom fixtures, showers, kitchen fixtures, drinking fountains, and laundry equipment. Plumbers use a variety of skills to install piping systems. They use both hand and power tools in their work for cutting, bending and threading pipe and make solid welded and soldered joints. Plumbers must also run tests on their installations to assure that the system is functioning properly and meets the plumbing code. They are often called upon to make repairs on fixtures and leaking pipe.

Working Conditions

Plumbers work outdoors in all kinds of weather, as well as indoors. They work on ladders, in trenches, or in unfinished sections of a new building. Often this work is done in cramped, wet or dirty locations. It is frequently necessary to stand for long periods of time. Occasionally, work must be done in uncomfortable positions and relatively inaccessible places..

Interest and Temperament

Plumbers must be able to understand detailed written and verbal instructions. They must be able to plan ahead and visualize completed projects. They should enjoy working with their hands and occasionally accept unfavorable working conditions and have the ability to solve math problems quickly and accurately. Plumbers must be willing to keep abreast of changes and advancing techniques after their apprenticeship is complete and throughout their plumbing careers.