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For those in the know, plumbing offers opportunities to earn serious money, especially in specialized or high-demand roles. In this article, we’ll explore the highest-paying jobs in plumbing, what makes them so lucrative, and how you can tap into the most profitable corners of the trade.
Top 13 Highest-Paying Plumbing Jobs
If you’re ready to turn your plumbing expertise into a lucrative career, specialized roles and leadership positions are where the real money is. Here are some of the highest-paying opportunities in the field.
1. Plumbing Engineer
Plumbing engineers specialize in designing complex systems that handle water supply, drainage, and fire suppression in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. They often collaborate with architects, civil engineers, and construction teams to create efficient and safe systems that adhere to plumbing codes.
Average Salary: $95,484 per year
What They Do:
- Design plumbing systems for potable water, waste management, and storm drainage.
- Develop blueprints using CAD software for accurate installation and maintenance.
- Ensure compliance with local and national plumbing regulations.
- Coordinate with construction teams to integrate plumbing with other building systems.
Why It Pays Well: Plumbing engineers are vital for large-scale construction projects where precision and expertise are required, making their skills indispensable.
2. Licensed Master Plumber
A licensed master plumber is the pinnacle of the plumbing profession. These experts oversee advanced installations, manage teams, and run their own plumbing businesses. Their responsibilities include ensuring projects meet safety codes and training the next generation of plumbers.
Average Salary: $80,053 per year
What They Do:
- Lead complex installations for commercial and residential projects.
- Train apprentices and journeyman plumbers.
- Troubleshoot advanced plumbing issues and implement effective solutions.
- Draft blueprints and manage plumbing projects from start to finish.
Why It Pays Well: Master plumbers can set their own rates and often take on high-value contracts, which significantly increases their earning potential..
3. Plumbing Designer
Plumbing designers create the layouts for plumbing systems in homes, offices, and public buildings. Using tools like CAD and Revit, they ensure that all systems are efficient, safe, and meet the client’s needs.
Average Salary: $88,079 per year
What They Do:
- Develop detailed designs for water and waste systems.
- Specify materials, pipe sizes, and installation techniques.
- Work with contractors and engineers to execute the designs.
- Focus on creating energy-efficient and sustainable plumbing systems.
Why It Pays Well: This role requires a blend of engineering and creative problem-solving, and it plays a critical part in ensuring project success.
4. Plumbing Foreman
A plumbing foreman supervises a team of plumbers on construction sites, ensuring that work is done safely, efficiently, and to code. They are part hands-on plumber and part project manager, balancing installation work with leadership duties.
Average Salary: $77,354 per year
What They Do:
- Oversee plumbing crews on commercial and residential job sites.
- Delegate tasks and ensure deadlines are met.
- Communicate with site managers and clients.
- Troubleshoot issues and maintain quality standards.
Why It Pays Well: The combination of leadership skills and technical expertise makes plumbing foremen highly valuable, especially on large construction projects.
5. Journeyman Plumber
Journeyman plumbers are skilled professionals with the experience and licensing to work independently on installations and repairs. They are often the backbone of any plumbing team, tackling both basic and advanced tasks.
Average Salary: $69,723 per year
What They Do:
- Install water, gas, and drainage systems in homes and businesses.
- Repair and maintain plumbing systems and equipment.
- Supervise and mentor apprentice plumbers.
- Work closely with contractors and clients to meet project specifications.
Why It Pays Well: Journeyman plumbers possess specialized skills that allow them to handle a variety of projects, making their expertise essential for both residential and commercial work.
6. Commercial Plumber
Commercial plumbers specialize in systems designed for large buildings such as offices, schools, and hospitals. Their work often involves handling high-capacity systems and adhering to strict commercial plumbing codes.
Average Salary: $58,820 per year
What They Do:
- Install and maintain plumbing systems in commercial properties.
- Repair large-scale water and waste systems.
- Ensure compliance with commercial plumbing codes and safety standards.
- Upgrade outdated systems for efficiency and safety.
Why It Pays Well: The complexity and scale of commercial plumbing make it a lucrative specialization, especially in urban areas like San Francisco or Chicago.
7. Plumbing Service Technician
Plumbing service technicians are the first responders to plumbing emergencies, making their role indispensable for both homeowners and businesses.
Average Salary: $65,552 per year
What They Do:
- Respond to emergency calls for clogged drains, broken pipes, or faulty water heaters.
- Perform maintenance on plumbing systems to prevent future issues.
- Install fixtures like sinks, toilets, and water heaters.
- Advise clients on upgrades and repairs.
Why It Pays Well: Being available for emergency calls often means earning overtime pay, and their problem-solving skills keep them in demand.
8. Drain Cleaner
Drain cleaners specialize in clearing clogs from residential and commercial plumbing systems. Using advanced tools like hydro-jetting machines, they ensure that pipes are clean and functional.
Average Salary: $54,852 per year
What They Do:
- Clear blockages in sewer and drainage systems.
- Use high-tech tools like sewer cameras and water jets.
- Repair and maintain pipes to prevent recurring issues.
- Provide long-term solutions for drainage problems.
Why It Pays Well: Their expertise in resolving urgent issues makes drain cleaners an essential part of the plumbing workforce, particularly in high-traffic commercial areas.
9. Water Restoration Technician
Water restoration technicians are critical in repairing damage caused by leaks, floods, or other plumbing disasters. Their role combines plumbing expertise with emergency response skills.
Average Salary: $41,059 per year
What They Do:
- Repair and replace water-damaged systems and infrastructure.
- Collaborate with insurance companies on restoration projects.
- Provide emergency repairs to prevent further damage.
- Ensure all systems are safe and functional after restoration.
Why It Pays Well: Restoration work often involves high-stakes scenarios, making these professionals vital to disaster recovery efforts.
10. Maintenance Plumber
Maintenance plumbers work on large-scale systems in facilities like universities, hospitals, and industrial complexes. They focus on keeping everything running smoothly through routine inspections and repairs.
Average Salary: $53,733 per year
What They Do:
- Conduct regular maintenance on plumbing systems.
- Identify and repair issues before they become major problems.
- Work on high-capacity systems designed for heavy usage.
- Collaborate with facilities management teams.
Why It Pays Well: The consistent demand for upkeep in large facilities ensures job stability and steady pay.
11. Plumbing Inspector
Plumbing inspectors ensure that all plumbing systems adhere to local, state, and federal regulations. Their work is essential for public safety and the proper functioning of residential, commercial, and industrial facilities.
Average Salary: $63,565 per year
What They Do:
- Examine plumbing installations to ensure compliance with safety codes.
- Test systems for functionality and efficiency.
- Advise property owners on correcting code violations.
- Approve materials and designs for new construction projects.
Why It’s Worth It: Plumbing inspectors play a key role in keeping communities safe, and their specialized knowledge makes them indispensable for new builds and renovations.
12. Construction Plumber
Construction plumbers focus on installing plumbing systems during the construction phase of buildings. Their work requires precision and coordination with contractors and other trades.
Average Salary: $71,605 per year
What They Do:
- Install plumbing systems for water supply and waste disposal.
- Collaborate with architects and engineers to implement designs.
- Test systems for leaks and ensure proper operation.
- Work on a variety of projects, from homes to commercial buildings.
Why It’s Worth It: Construction plumbers thrive in fast-paced environments, often working on high-profile projects that lead to steady work and career growth.
13. Apprentice Plumber
The entry point into the trade, apprentice plumbers work under the guidance of licensed professionals to learn the ropes. This role combines on-the-job training with formal education to build a solid foundation for a plumbing career.
Average Salary: $41,861 per year
What They Do:
- Assist licensed plumbers with installations and repairs.
- Learn to read blueprints and follow safety regulations.
- Perform routine maintenance and basic plumbing tasks.
- Gain hands-on experience to prepare for licensing exams.
Why It’s Worth It: As the starting step in a lucrative career, apprenticeships provide valuable experience and a pathway to roles like journeyman or master plumber.
Top Certifications and Skills to Increase Your Earnings
Plumbing isn’t just about the tools in your belt, it’s about the knowledge in your head and the credentials on your resume. If you’re climbing the ladder to become a master plumber or diving into a niche specialization, here are the certifications and skills that can take your income to the next level.
Certifications
Earning the right certifications is a surefire way to boost your credibility and income in the plumbing field. These credentials not only demonstrate your expertise but also open doors to specialized and high-paying opportunities.
- Journeyman and Master Plumber Licenses - These licenses are the gold standard in the plumbing profession, offering some of the highest-paying jobs for plumbers. A journeyman license allows you to work independently, while a master plumber license opens doors to managing teams, running your own plumbing business, and handling complex construction projects.
Most states require a combination of on-the-job training, work experience, and passing an exam to earn these licenses. Licensed plumbers with advanced skills often exceed the average salary, especially in high-demand areas like California and West Virginia.
- Medical Gas Certification - This certification allows plumbers to work in the highly specialized field of medical gas systems used in healthcare facilities. It is essential for those seeking to install and maintain oxygen, nitrous oxide, and other gas pipelines, offering high earning potential.
- Backflow Prevention Certification - Backflow prevention ensures that clean water supplies remain uncontaminated, a critical aspect of municipal and industrial plumbing systems. Plumbers with this certification are trusted to install, repair, and test these devices, often securing lucrative projects.
- Green Plumber Certification - With the rise in demand for sustainable practices, this certification trains plumbers in eco-friendly technologies. Skills include installing water-saving fixtures, solar water heaters, and energy-efficient systems, making you highly valuable to environmentally conscious clients.
- Safety Certifications - Certifications in workplace safety, such as OSHA compliance or first aid, demonstrate your commitment to maintaining a secure work environment. These are often required for working on large construction sites or high-risk industrial projects.
Skills
Along with certifications, honing specific skills can set you apart from other plumbers and increase your earning potential. These technical and soft skills allow you to take on more advanced jobs, deliver exceptional service, and maximize your value.
- Advanced Welding Skills - Welding skills are essential for plumbing work that involves industrial or high-pressure systems. Being proficient in welding pipes and fittings can open doors to higher-paying opportunities in factories, power plants, and large construction projects.
- Blueprint Reading and CAD Skills - Understanding blueprints and using computer-aided design (CAD) software allows plumbers to plan and design systems with precision. These skills are invaluable for working on complex construction projects, where attention to detail is critical.
- HVAC and Plumbing Combo Expertise - Cross-training in HVAC and plumbing makes you a versatile professional capable of handling multiple systems in one project. Clients and employers value this dual expertise, which can significantly increase your job opportunities and income.
- Communication and Sales Skills - Plumbers who can explain technical systems in simple terms and build rapport with clients are often more successful. These soft skills are also crucial for upselling services, negotiating contracts, and ensuring customer satisfaction.
Conclusion
Plumbing isn’t just a trade; it’s a stable, lucrative, and ever-evolving career. High-paying specialties, entrepreneurial ventures, and diverse opportunities await those ready to sharpen their skills and embrace the challenge.
Starting out or leveling up, the plumbing industry offers unmatched potential for growth, job security, and success. Time to roll up those sleeves and get to work!
