Become a Plumber
Interested in installing and fixing water, drainage and plumbing systems in communities throughout the province?
A Plumber installs and repairs piping and other equipment used to move, store, or dispose of water, gas, and sewage. Plumbers install piping and equipment in residential, commercial, institutional and industrial buildings and sites.
Key Skills Needed
- Ability to work in tight or awkward spaces
- Physical strength and stamina
- Math and planning skills
- Coordination and agility
- Problem-solving skills
- Safety awareness
Watch Dekkel share what a typical day looks like, from installing and repairing plumbing systems to working in tight spaces behind walls and under fixtures. Dekkel talks about the parts of the job people may not expect, like the problem-solving and the attention to detail needed in this trade.
Typical Mid-Range Hourly Rate
33
Career Outlook
Good - The odds of finding work in this field are good for someone who is qualified.
Pathways Into the Trade
- Direct Entry
Start working with a certified journeyperson and begin your apprenticeship right away - no experience needed. Most apprentices spend about 80% of their time on the job and 20% in training. - Pre-Apprenticeship
Take a program at a college or training institution to build foundational skills before starting your apprenticeship. - Trade Experience
If you already have experience – whether in Canada or internationally – you may be able to challenge the trade qualifier exam and become certified.
Working Conditions
- Work indoors and outdoors on construction and renovation projects
- Work at heights, in crawl spaces and small areas
- Exposure to all weather conditions when doing rough-in work
- Use hand tools, power tools and pipe-joining equipment
- Regular lifting, climbing and physical movement
- Work with materials including copper, steel, plastic, cast iron and specialty piping systems
*Profile data compiled by Labour, Skills and Immigration – AskLMI@novascotia.ca