How to Become a Plumber in Pennsylvania
Becoming a plumber can be a rewarding and successful career for individuals who enjoy working with their hands.
While plumbing jobs in PA can pay well and provide the opportunity to work in different types of locations, these roles require ample training and education before you can begin.
Education and Training
Individuals may also choose to get supplemental education through a plumbing trade school or online program. This can help future plumbers learn and sharpen the skills they’ll need to be successful. Business courses offered through a school or online venue may also help those interested in starting their own company.
Courses for Plumbers in PA
If you choose to attend a trade school that offers a program in plumbing, you will take a wide range of classes to sharpen your skills. Many of these classes provide hands-on training from dedicated instructors that have experience working in the field.
What Will You Study?
Some classes you can expect to take while learning to become a plumber in Pennsylvania are:
- Business Ethics
- Math
- Drainage
- Blueprint Reading
- Safety
Plumbing School Costs
Depending on how much schooling you choose to get and which courses you take, the price of school for a plumber in Pennsylvania can vary.
Basic Training and Certificate Programs
For instance, you may be able to finish a basic online training program for under $1,000, while individuals who pursue a one-year certificate program may find that their costs range from $1,000 to $3,000.
Obtaining an Associate’s Degree in Plumbing
Students pursuing an associate’s degree in plumbing technology may find the cost of their degree as much as $20,000. There can also be additional costs such as tools, books, and uniforms to consider as well. However, to help offset the costs, many scholarships and financial aid packages are available for those who qualify.
Plumbers License
In order to become a plumber in the state of Pennsylvania, individuals must first obtain a plumbing license. Those who want to get a plumbing license must first begin as an apprentice through a state-approved program.
Apprenticeship Requirements
While doing an apprenticeship, you will need to complete 2,000 hours of on-the-job training and 224 hours of classroom learning.
Journeyman Plumber’s License
Once you have finished the apprenticeship program, you can apply for a Journeyman Plumber’s license. Journeyman plumbers can perform a variety of different jobs that include repairing pipes, installing fixtures, and modifying pipes.
Master Plumber’s License
A Journeyman Plumbers who wishes to take the next step and become a Master Plumber may apply for a Master Plumber’s license. For people interested in obtaining a Master Plumber’s license, individuals will need to meet the following benchmarks:
- Finish four years of on-the-job training
- Completed work as a Journeyman for one year
- Take 567 hours of classwork coursework
- Pass the exam
Requirements for a Plumbing Apprenticeship
To be eligible for a plumbing apprenticeship you must possess a high school diploma or GED, be at least 18 years of age, and should be legally able to work and study in the United States.
Take an Entrance Exam
During the entrance exam, you may also need to present your PA driver’s license and proof of citizenship.
Plumber Salary in PA
After completing your apprenticeship, you can start looking for work in your area. Many plumber jobs in Pennsylvania can vary depending on the location, level of apprenticeship completed, and whether you work for a company or are an independent contractor.
How Much Can You Make?
While working as a plumber in PA, you may be able to make a salary similar to these.
Pittsburgh $59,600
Altoona $57,000
Scranton $55,800
Erie $60,400
Philadelphia $65,000
Job Description
These workers install and repair water, gas, and other systems of piping inside homes and businesses. Plumbers may also install bathtubs and toilets, as well as kitchen appliances like dishwashers.
Additional Responsibilities
These workers can also be responsible for cleaning out drains, replacing broken pipes and plumbing fixtures, and safely taking out obstructions from pipes.
Skills Needed
When trying to locate a leak inside of a building, these workers must be able to accurately read blueprints to find possible locations of where the leaking is coming from. Plumbers will also be able to correctly estimate prices for clients based on the materials, equipment, and labor needed.
Career Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the projected job growth for plumbers is slightly lower than the national average. Experts predict that the demand for plumbers will grow about two percent from 2021-2031. Despite this low number, there will still be thousands of jobs available for new plumbers due to older workers retiring or individuals leaving the field.