Plumbing Installer

Working Schedule

• Plumbing Installers typically work full-time, with overtime often required to address emergencies or meet deadlines. Work schedules may include evenings and weekends, especially for those who are self-employed or on call. Frequent travel is needed to reach job sites.

Typical Duties

• Meet with customers, contractors, construction workers, and electricians to go over projects, timeframes, and budgets
• Inspect structures to assess material or equipment needs, establish a sequence of pipe installations, or plan around obstructions
• Review blueprints to determine the layout of systems and materials
• Estimate time, material, or labor costs. Prepare cost estimates or bids
• Inspect work sites for obstructions or holes that could cause structural weakness
• Locate positions for installations, connections, holes, or fixtures
• Lay out drawings of pipe systems, supports, or related equipment, per blueprints
• Plan pipe system layout, installation, or repair
• Select pipe sizes, types, and materials such as supports or hydraulic cylinders
• Install plumbing systems (pipes, fixtures, sinks, toilets, and water heaters)
• Inspect existing systems and components. Replace worn parts, as needed
• Shut off gasses or liquids from pipe sections using valve keys or wrenches
• Install underground storm, sanitary, or water piping systems
• Measure, cut, thread, and bend pipe using hand and power tools or machines
• Attach pipes to walls, structures, or fixtures using brackets, clamps, or welding
• Anchor steel supports from ceiling joists to hold pipes in place
• Replace defective washers and open clogged drains
• Cut openings accommodate pipes or pipe fittings
• Install fixtures, appliances, or equipment designed to reduce water or energy consumption

Additional Responsibilities

• Fill pipes or fixtures with water or air. Observe pressure gauges to detect leaks
• Troubleshoot and fix installation issues to ensure systems function correctly
• Train and mentor junior installers. Direct helpers engaged in pipe cutting, preassembly, or installation of components
• Adhere to codes and safety standards. Ensure work meets legal requirements
• Stay up-to-date with technologies and materials to improve efficiency and quality
• Maintain an accurate inventory of supplies and tools. Order new stock as required
• Document installation processes. Keep records of materials used for each project

Soft Skills

• Ability to work independently
• Attention-to-detail
• Critical thinking
• Dexterity
• English proficiency
• Flexibility
• Organization
• Persistence
• Problem-solving
• Resourcefulness
• Safety consciousness
• Sound judgment and decision-making
• Strength and stamina
• Strong communication skills
• Time management
• Visualization

Technical Skills

• Ability to read blueprints/technical diagrams with layout visualization software
• Proficiency with plumbing tools and equipment (wrenches, pipe cutters, threading machines, and soldering irons)
• Installing smart plumbing devices (touchless faucets, smart water heaters, etc.)
• Experience with green plumbing practices and products
• Expertise in welding and soldering techniques
• Plumbing inspection technologies for diagnosing hidden pipe issues
• In-depth knowledge of building codes and regulations
• Emergency and safety equipment (backflow preventers, gas leak detectors, etc.)
• HVAC systems and tools
• Hydraulic calculations to determine water supply needs and pipe and fixture sizing
• Understanding of water supply and waste management systems (principles of water pressure, venting, and septic system operations)

• Government
• Heavy and civil engineering construction
• Manufacturing
• Plumbing, heating, and air-conditioning contractors
• Self-employed workers

The job of a Plumbing Installer can be physically demanding at times, working in tight spaces, lifting heavy objects, and being exposed to various environmental conditions. There’s also the ongoing risk of personal injuries from tools, materials, and work environments. Sometimes, installers may have to be “on call” in the event of an emergency, which can lead to long work hours.

In addition to being masters of their trade, Plumbing Installers must be devoted to continuous learning to keep up with new technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), updated building codes, as well as trends such as green plumbing practices. Any serious flaws in their work can lead to potentially hazardous and expensive leaks. 

There’s a high demand for the services of Plumbing Installers in areas experiencing rapid construction growth and where buildings are being retrofitted with modern, efficient systems.

Added to this trend is the growing emphasis on water conservation and sustainable plumbing solutions. Part of these efforts is the increasing use of smart plumbing technology and automation. The integration of IoT in plumbing has revolutionized water systems monitoring and management, allowing for real-time tracking of usage and leak detection, as well as remote control of fixtures. This technology enhances efficiency and convenience while it contributes to reducing unnecessary waste!

Plumbing Installers are often very analytical and hands-on. They may have enjoyed assembling things in their youth, such as sophisticated LEGO sets or other projects, or they could’ve loved building things in shop class with tools. In addition, they might have had a knack for math.