subject: Plumber Wages - How Much Can You Make As A Plumber? [print this page] There are certain jobs that are constantly in demand. One such job is that of a professional plumber. No matter what happens to the economy, when a plumbing problem develops it will need to be fixed. That is why many people look to enter the plumbing profession. However, a number of questions have been raised as to what is the hourly rate of a plumber actually. So, what exactly does a plumber earn per hour?
Keep in mind, not all plumbers are equal on the pay scale. A union plumber will earn more than one who is non-union. An apprentice will earn less than someone who has been in the profession for many years. So, consider the following a ballpark look at the wages plumbers earn per year.
Looking at average salaries for a plumber working in the U.S., the numbers are often difficult to understand. For instance, the listed salary of $27,000 per year is arrived at by averaging all plumbing jobs. This breaks down to mean that a helper in the plumbing profession will make $18,000 per year while a licensed plumber makes about $47,000. In order to keep clear on these figures, let's look at them on a $20,000, $30,000 and $40,000 basis.
When starting in this profession, the apprentice is learning while getting paid. This is why they are called plumber's helpers and this is the starting rate of around $18,000 per year. After learning the basics and getting to the point where they do not need much supervision, they become a plumber helper. The pay rate can increase to $25,000 a year. This averages out from $9 to $12 per hour.
When they are no longer considered a helper, they may make $30,000 per year. After learning enough to specialize in this profession, the plumber can earn more and more. The specialists in some fields such as Oil & GA can earn about $33,000 and the more specialized plumbers may earn more - such as the high 30s. Averaging out to about $15 to $19 per hour for plumbers is about the amounts made.
If you are a licensed journeyman plumber, a technician or a pipe fitter in the plumbing field, you may make the high end job rates. They are about $40,000 to $50,000 per year. This averages out to $20 to $25 per hour.
Keep in mind these numbers are based on a person working 40 hours a week. As such, the base rate is what this is considered. If you work more than 40 hours, overtime will apply which will end up being more income. If you do not work 40 hours a week, your pay will be less. The money earned as a plumber is based upon how much you work and the services performed.
