How to Get a Plumbing Apprenticeship

Landing a plumbing apprenticeship can give you the right skills and knowledge to ensure you are successful as you enter the workforce. Here you can learn more about what a plumbing apprenticeship is and how to get seek one out. It’s an important step in your career that will require some research, focus, and dedication. 

What is A Plumbing Apprenticeship? 

Your first order of business is to learn more about what a plumbing apprenticeship is exactly and what apprenticeship jobs entail. It’s anyone who wants to pursue a career in plumbing and will require that you work under the supervision and guidance of a senior and experienced plumber. You’ll likely be asked to complete many of the same tasks as a senior plumber. You will be able to handle some of the more basic jobs on your own and get help from the senior plumber on more complex ones. How much you work will depend on the nature of the job. In some cases you’ll work a regular full-time schedule and other times you may be assigned to shifts over a 24-hour period. 

In most cases, you and the senior plumber will be working on location. However, it will depend on the client and the nature of the job. Generally speaking, you’ll be working in commercial buildings or in family homes. 

What Skills Do You Need to Be Successful?

If you’re going to find success with your plumbing apprenticeship you’ll need the right set of skills. You will need physical strength, for example, as you may at times be working with heavy equipment. You need to have stamina and the ability to safely use them throughout your career. The majority of plumbing jobs are performed in tight spaces. You’ll need to be able to maneuver around and work with your tools and change parts in these areas. 

Plumbing systems can be very complex at times so you’ll also need problem-solving skills. You’ll need to use logic to determine the cause of a certain issue. It’ll require that you are prepared to come up with creative solutions to a wide variety of plumbing problems. You need effective communication skills so you can properly discuss matters with your supervisor or senior plumber. You’ll also want to be prepared to talk about how you’re going to repair an issue with your customers. 

There are also several duties and responsibilities you’ll be taking on during your apprenticeship. For example, you may need to identify issues with drains or sewers. You may also be required to complete cleaning and unclogging services. When working as a plumber you will need to install and assemble plumbing fixtures at times. Finally, you’ll want to be prepared to provide cost estimates to your customers. 

How to Become a Plumbing Apprenticeship

At the very minimum, you’ll need a GED certificate or high school diploma to secure a plumbing apprenticeship. You may also want to think about completing a plumbing program from a vocational school so you can increase your chances of landing a plumbing apprenticeship and prove you have the basic skills you’ll need to be successful on the job. These courses will teach you the typical responsibilities you’ll be in charge of and review your state’s regulations for building and safety codes. After you complete this training you’ll be in the running to apply for and secure a plumbing apprenticeship. You’ll be assigned to work under a professional and experienced plumber to start tackling jobs in the field that will be hands-on.  

The Length of A Plumbing Apprenticeship 

You may be wondering how long a plumbing apprenticeship will last. It may differ depending on your situation, however, typically you’ll be in this position for about two to five years. Although it seems like a long time it’s a great way to prepare yourself for a career as a plumber. You may also be able to earn a higher salary than other plumbing apprenticeship people. As a plumbing apprentice, you’ll learn practical training and theoretical knowledge. 

Steps for Becoming A Plumbing Apprenticeship

If you want to become a plumbing apprentice then there are certain steps you’re going to need to take. Below is a list of action items you can focus on to land a plumbing apprenticeship. 

Have the Right Skills & Determination

You need to make sure you have the right set of skills to be successful in your role. This will give you a better chance of securing a plumbing apprenticeship. You may be willing and prepared to work in this position for at least two years. Your ultimate goal is to become a senior plumber after you’ve completed the apprenticeship. 

Graduate High School

Becoming a plumbing apprentice will require that you complete and graduate high school. You’ll find that many employers prefer a high school diploma over a GED certificate. The subjects that are most important for a plumber to know and complete are science and math. 

Get Your Resume Ready

Another step you’ll want to take if you’re going to become a plumbing apprentice is to create a resume. Be sure to highlight any achievements or experiences you’ve had related to plumbing. For example, you may have experience in a related field such as construction or be able to demonstrate your knowledge and skills of working with customers directly. 

Attend & Complete Coursework at A Vocational School

You may also want to consider attending and completing coursework at a vocational school or trade school. This can make you a more attractive choice to employers. In fact, it can give you a significant advantage over others if there are many people applying for the same role. Many schools are connected to companies that may help you secure a plumbing apprenticeship more easily. 

Complete & Pass an Aptitude Test

In some cases, the prerequisite for a plumbing apprenticeship can be an aptitude test. You’ll want to make sure you study and can pass it. It may also help you gain a leg up on the competition if you can show that you’ve passed it. You should be prepared to answer questions related to math, plumbing knowledge, and reading comprehension. 

Start Applying for Plumbing Apprenticeship Positions

After you’ve completed the above steps, you should begin applying for plumbing apprenticeship positions. Start actively looking to see what’s out there and be prepared to apply for multiple roles with various companies. You can increase your odds of landing a plumbing apprenticeship by applying to as many plumbing companies as possible. 

Start Studying for the Licensing Exam

You’re also going to need to take a licensing exam once you become a plumbing apprentice. It’s wise to begin studying for it right away. It can be a very challenging exam. Without proper preparation, you may struggle to pass it. 

Can an Apprentice Plumber Work Alone?

Another question that you may have is if you can work alone as an apprentice plumber. You’ll be required to put in a certain number of hours of training on the job and working under a senior plumber. You’ll have a chance to apply your skills and knowledge and shadow the supervisor on various jobs. In most cases, you cannot work alone as an apprentice plumber. You must first pass all of your apprenticeship requirements. You must be able to demonstrate that you have the right skills and knowledge to work by yourself. This can only be done by first completing your plumbing apprenticeship work. You can begin taking on jobs independently only after you have passed the state exam and have earned your license. 

Potential Career Paths to Consider

After completing the plumbing apprenticeship, you may be wondering what kind of career opportunities will exist for you out there. The good news is that by completing your apprenticeship program it can offer up a wide variety of potential jobs in the plumbing industry. Once you have your license you may want to consider working as a plumber in residential homes or commercial buildings. In some cases, you may even want to work in more specialized job areas such as steamfitting, pipefitting, or sprinkler fitting. The more experience you gain working in the field the better. For example, you may be able to work your way into more managerial or supervisory roles at your plumbing company.