In PA, experienced plumbers make well over $100K. Its a career that comes with job stability and lots of growth opportunities.
Steps to Becoming a Plumber in PA
- Complete 2000 hours of work as an apprentice.
- Complete 224 hours of classroom training.
- Apply for a license.
Check with the state for approved apprenticeship programs.
Below are some options to help you complete the educational requirements.
Education and Training
The best way to get started is to take an accredited online course such as the ones below.
Course Benefits
After graduating, you will have a comprehensive understanding of the trade, preparing you for professional advancement:
- Necessary information to pass the preliminary exam for entering an apprenticeship
- Customer service skills crucial for obtaining sponsorship from a state-licensed plumber
- A complimentary toolkit containing more than 50 items
- Open enrollment allowing you to start the course at any time without waiting for a designated start date
What Will You Study?
You will take a wide range of classes to sharpen your skills:
Fundamentals of Plumbing:
- Plumbing codes
- Plumbing math
- Tools of the trade
Safety and Techniques:
- Plumber safety
- Hoisting & rigging
- Welding for plumbers
- Soldering & brazing
Materials and Equipment:
- Piping materials
- Plastic fittings
- Pipes and Piping
- Fixtures
- Faucets
- Valves
- Heaters
System Design and Construction:
- Water sources
- Waste & sewage disposal
- Water pipe systems
- Hot water flow
- Building structures
- Sewers
- Drainage units
- Building drains
- Stacks
- Venting drains
- Pumps
- Traps
- Supports
Installation Techniques:
- Joining
- Pipe joining
- Pipe identification
Planning and Documentation:
- Building plans
- Sketching
- Drawings
- Drainage systems
Professional Skills:
- Communication
- Customer service
Program Cost & Length
Its 145 course hours that usually takes about 12 months. You can, however control the pace of the course and study more often to complete it in less time.
It will cost $2,300, with financing options available for those who prefer to pay on a monthly basis.
Other Local Trade School Programs
- Leesport
- Monroeville
- Bristol
- Williamsport
- Lancaster
Berks Career & Technology Center (Rating: 4.2 out 5)
Berks Career & Technology Center's Plumbing & Heating program at the East Campus in Oley equips students with essential skills for assembling, installing, and repairing plumbing and heating systems. The curriculum includes hands-on training with real-world applications and industry certifications like NCCER CORE and PBA Certification. Graduates are prepared for entry-level positions, apprenticeships, and further education in plumbing and heating fields.
Mon-Yough Plumbing School (Rating: 5 out 5)
Mon-Yough Plumbing Apprentice School (M.Y.P.A.S.) offers a comprehensive four-year Plumbing Apprenticeship Program, requiring 576 classroom hours and 8,000 on-the-job training hours under a Registered Master Plumber. Students attend classes twice weekly per semester, covering essential topics like plumbing code, trade skills, and exam preparation for the Journeyman Plumber exam. Tuition, paid by the sponsoring employer, includes training materials and annual Apprentice Card updates, with refresher courses available for those pursuing the Master Plumber exam.
Pennco Tech (Rating: 4 out 5)
The Plumbing & Heating Technology program at Pennco Tech prepares students for a career as a plumbing and heating technician in just 26 weeks. Offering hands-on training in installation, maintenance, and repair of various plumbing systems, the program includes day or evening classes and is available full or part-time at the Bristol campus. Graduates are equipped with skills in brazing, soldering, blueprint reading, and using specialized tools, ready to join a stable and growing industry with excellent job security and career assistance from Pennco Tech.
Pennsylvania College of Technology (Rating: 4.5 out 5)
The Plumbing Certificate program at Penn College provides comprehensive, hands-on training over one academic year, equipping students with the skills needed for careers in plumbing, pipefitting, and steamfitting. The curriculum covers code compliance, blueprint reading, electrical systems, and new technologies. Students practice their skills in fully equipped labs, featuring over 7,500 square feet of space and more than 100 pieces of equipment, including gas and oil units, water heaters, and compressors. The program emphasizes a well-rounded education that includes communication and collaboration skills. Graduates are prepared to work in both commercial and residential settings. This intensive training ensures that students are real-world ready for an in-demand field.
Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology (Rating: 4.6 out 5)
The Plumbing Technology Associate Degree program at Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology trains students in the design, installation, and repair of residential and commercial plumbing systems over two years. Graduates acquire skills in blueprint reading, piping installation, and boiler maintenance, preparing them for careers in various industries or self-employment with opportunities for rapid advancement.
Salary Range
Survey of Average Salary in PA
- $61,670 per CareerOneStop.org (Bureau of Labor Stats)
- $61,097 per Indeed.com
- $58,681 per ZipRecruiter
- $58,187 per Talent.com
- Below are some average salaries and hourly wages for areas of the state.
| Area | Hourly | Yearly |
|---|---|---|
| Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton | $33.23 | $69,130.00 |
| Altoona | $27.09 | $56,340.00 |
| Bloomsburg-Berwick | $31.19 | $64,880.00 |
| Chambersburg-Waynesboro | $26.83 | $55,800.00 |
| East Stroudsburg | $27.86 | $57,940.00 |
| Erie | $30.98 | $64,440.00 |
| Gettysburg | $27.70 | $57,620.00 |
| Harrisburg-Carlisle | $33.49 | $69,670.00 |
| Johnstown | $26.91 | $55,960.00 |
| Lancaster | $30.13 | $62,660.00 |
| Lebanon | $27.87 | $57,970.00 |
| Northern PA | $32.56 | $67,710.00 |
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington | $37.18 | $77,330.00 |
| Pittsburgh | $33.94 | $70,600.00 |
| Reading | $31.77 | $66,080.00 |
| Scranton–Wilkes-Barre–Hazleton | $28.61 | $59,500.00 |
| Southern PA | $25.71 | $53,470.00 |
| State College | $31.98 | $66,510.00 |
| Western PA | $29.04 | $60,400.00 |
| Williamsport | $27.70 | $57,610.00 |
| York-Hanover | $30.99 | $64,460.00 |
source: data.bls.gov
Video Summary
Pennsylvania Requirements
PA requires that individuals must first obtain a plumbing license.
Apprenticeship
Those who want to get a plumbing license must first begin as an apprentice through a state-approved program. While doing an apprenticeship, you will need to complete 2,000 hours of on-the-job training and 224 hours of classroom learning.
Requirements for 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.
During the entrance exam, you may also need to present your PA driver’s license and proof of citizenship.
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
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.
What Employers in Pennsylvania Seek in a Plumber
Pennsylvania employers looking for skilled plumbers prioritize a combination of technical expertise, experience, and soft skills to ensure smooth operations in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. Companies such as the U.S. Veterans Health Administration, Fire & Ice Heating and Air, and many others seek professionals who are adept at installing, maintaining, and repairing plumbing systems, with some roles also requiring supervisory experience.
Key Skills and Responsibilities
Employers expect plumbers to possess proficiency in:
- Installation & Repair: Plumbers must be able to install, modify, and repair water, gas, and sewage systems. This includes working with pipes, water closets, tubs, showers, and fire sprinkler systems.
- Blueprint Reading: The ability to interpret building plans and technical drawings to determine system layouts and installation requirements is critical.
- Troubleshooting & Problem-Solving: Identifying and resolving issues related to plumbing fixtures, pipes, and systems efficiently.
- Technical Practices & Equipment Handling: Familiarity with the latest plumbing tools, techniques, and best practices.
- Safety & Compliance: Ensuring adherence to industry standards, safety codes, and governmental regulations.
Employer Expectations & Work Environment
For instance, the U.S. Veterans Health Administration in Wilkes-Barre, PA, offers full-time positions with a pay range of $25.87 – $30.19 per hour. Plumbers working here must:
- Install and maintain complex systems in government facilities.
- Work from ladders, scaffolding, and confined spaces.
- Have strong troubleshooting skills to repair and modify existing plumbing infrastructure.
- Be comfortable working independently and with minimal supervision.
Similarly, Fire & Ice Heating and Air in Greensburg, PA, seeks apprentice plumbers who:
- Assist in installations and repairs.
- Work in residential settings, helping homeowners with plumbing issues.
- Have strong customer service skills and communication abilities.
- Possess a valid driver’s license and a clean driving record.
- Can handle physical labor, including lifting up to 100 lbs with assistance.
- Are willing to participate in additional training programs.
Crossover Into Other Disciplines
Plumbing roles often overlap with other technical and trade professions, including:
- HVAC Systems: Many plumbing positions, such as those at Fire & Ice Heating and Air, require knowledge of heating and cooling systems due to water-related components in HVAC setups.
- Construction & Carpentry: Plumbers working on new installations must coordinate with carpenters and electricians to ensure seamless project execution.
- Welding & Pipefitting: Industrial and commercial plumbers often need to weld pipes and work on high-pressure piping systems.
- Electrical Systems: Understanding how plumbing interacts with electrical systems (e.g., water heaters, pump systems) is essential in many roles.
Job Market & Opportunities
The demand for plumbers in Pennsylvania remains high, with opportunities ranging from government roles to private sector positions. Those with a combination of hands-on experience, certification, and specialized training will find ample career advancement prospects.
If you’re considering a plumbing career in Pennsylvania, gaining experience in diverse work environments and acquiring skills that cross into related trades can significantly enhance your employability and earning potential.