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A plumber is responsible for installing, repairing and maintaining pipes, fixtures and other plumbing used for water distribution and waste water disposal in commercial and industrial buildings. A plumber reads blueprints, drawings and specifications to determine the layout of plumbing systems, water supply networks and waste and drainage systems. A plumber selects and inserts precut pieces of copper tubing and fittings in holes. Plumbers connect tubing and fittings using solder paste, or solder and torch, to form sewer, drain, and water lines. A plumber may direct workers engaged in preassembly and installation of wall systems, such as risers, air chambers, and shower assemblies. Plumbers work in cooperation with other trades and laborers to ensure that all specifications, legislation and policies are met, to ensure efficient completion of any project. Providing adequate services, by a qualified plumber, will ensure that all water supply networks and waste and drainage systems are installed, repaired and maintained to meet all standards of building codes and safety.

Required Education: On-the-job training or apprenticeship
Average Salary:$20.28 / hour


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  • Job Title: Plumber
  • City: Orlando
  • State: Florida

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Plumbing Technician Career Overview

Commonly called plumbers, plumbing technicians install, repair and maintain pipes for carrying water, sewage, gas and other liquids to residential, industrial and commercial facilities. They install and repair sinks, toilets and other plumbing fixtures, as well as appliances including dishwashers and garbage disposals. Plumbers also might work with water heaters.

Plumbing technicians can be self-employed or work for other contractors. They also might find work with commercial, government or industrial employers. Oftentimes, plumbers belong to a union, such as the United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipe Fitting Industry of the United States and Canada.

Education for Plumbing Technicians

Although some technicians gain their skills on the job by working with experienced plumbers, most future plumbing technicians begin learning their trade through an apprenticeship. Beginning apprentices must be at least 18 years of age and in good physical shape. They also might need a high school diploma. Apprenticeships generally last 4-5 years and include several hundred hours of classroom instruction to supplement intensive hands-on training. Apprentices gain progressively greater levels of responsibility, leading to increased competence in the skills of the trade. At the completion of an apprenticeship, students are promoted to the rank of journeymen and can earn full wages and be employed as union members.