The plumbing sector provides several prospects for a rewarding career—you can work for a large corporation or create your own firm.
Plumbing is also a growing field. Plumbers earn an average of $56,000 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, with a projected growth rate of 5% between 2020 and 2030.
Do you have a gut feeling that plumbing is the correct vocation for you? Do you want to know where to begin? Check out this blog and get started on your plumbing career in Massachusetts right away!
Is a Plumber’s License Required in Massachusetts?
Yes, you must have at least a journeyman plumbing license in Massachusetts.
Because Massachusetts does not have reciprocity with other states, if you’re coming in from another state, you’ll have to repeat the required examinations to work.
What Are the Types of Plumbing Licenses Available in Massachusetts?
The Board of Registration of Plumbers and Gas Fitters offers three categories of licenses: apprentice, journeyman, and master plumber. In Massachusetts, plumbers are in high demand at all levels, and the surge of enrollees in plumbing licensing school is high.
Apprentice Plumber
Someone who has undergone some professional training is referred to as an apprentice plumber. The apprentice is learning from a master plumber on the job. Basic plumbing activities such as pipe installation and bending will be performed.
The apprentice will not develop systems; instead, he or she will learn to comprehend them. After 5,100 hours of supervised plumbing work, you can apply for your apprentice license. Apprenticeships typically take four to five years to complete.
Journeyman Plumber
You can apply to become a journeyman plumber after working for at least three years with your apprentice license. A journeyman plumber may undertake any plumbing project, but they must be supervised by a master plumber, especially on more difficult jobs.
Some plumbers prefer to work as journeymen throughout their careers, frequently as part of a bigger plumbing company or department.
Master Plumber
The master plumber is the most advanced degree of plumbing certification. You’re a self-employed plumber with no one to supervise you. By overseeing apprentices and journeymen, you may also train the future generation.
Before you may apply to be a master plumber, you must first work as a journeyman plumber for at least a year.
How to Obtain a Plumbing License?
The Board of Registration of Plumbers and Gas Fitters is in charge of licensing.
Each stage requires its own application. A criminal history check will be required of you. If you have a criminal record, the nature of the offense may make it impossible for you to acquire a driver’s license.
You will attend a technical school to earn your apprentice license. A technical high school is available in many Massachusetts areas. You can start your apprenticeship when you finish this program. Candidates over the age of 18 must begin their education at a technical institution or a plumber licensing school, such as Masters Plumbing & Gas School.
The lessons you’ll take to prepare for your apprenticeship will be a combination of academic and practical. Following completion of the program, you can seek out a master plumber to begin your formal apprenticeship.
Apprenticeships are available for up to 10 years. The majority of that time will be spent learning the fundamentals of plumbing. You will begin by observing the plumbing activities. A plumber in charge of a huge job could put you on a standard 9-to-5 schedule. An individual plumber’s schedule may be more flexible.
To advance from apprentice to journeyman plumber, you’ll need 8,000 hours of hands-on experience and 150 hours of formal education at a technical institution.
A journeyman plumber can work eternally as long as he or she renews his or her license every two years. After one year of experience, you can apply for a master plumber’s license. A state-administered exam and formal coursework given by a plumbing licensing school are also required for this license.
How Often Do I Have to Renew My Plumbing License in Massachusetts?
Every two years, Massachusetts plumbing licenses must be renewed. The current rates for an apprentice, journeyman, and master plumber are $40, $52, and $78, respectively.
Conclusion
Plumbers make around $56,000 per year on average! Do you have a gut sense that you should pursue a career in plumbing? Send us a message today to begin your journey with us.
