Commercial Plumbing Career
As of 2010, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports a high demand of commercial plumbers. Thus, many commercial plumbing job opportunities have been created. Commercial plumbing can be a high-paying career choice; however, most places will require you to obtain a license. Get your start by enrolling in an apprentice program.
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Nature of Work
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Commercial plumbers must perform duties involved in general office settings. They must be able to fix sinks, toilets and other office apparatus. Additionally, a commercial plumber may have to install a water heater in a building.
A commercial plumber must be very handy. Oftentimes, he will be called upon to destroy and reassemble walls, floors and ceilings. Further, a plumber must be proficient with a saw, pipe cutter and other bending machinery in order to create various pipes.
Finally, a commercial plumber must be able to think analytically. He must understand the implications of his work in regard to an entire pressure system.
Work Environment
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Commercial plumbers work in offices. They must be able to interact well with businesspeople. This often involves taking limited information and applying it an efficient manner. On the positive side, the typical work week will be 40 hours and during standard business hours. Rare office emergencies may require additional hours.
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Training
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Trade schools, community colleges and technical schools offer commercial plumbers a chance to apprentice. After four years as an apprentice, a plumber gains a good chance of obtaining commercial employment. Luckily, these programs pay money to apprentices.
Many states require plumbers to be licensed. Generally, a commercial plumber will need to pass a test and demonstrate successful experience as an apprentice to be licensed.
Earnings
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As of 2008, the median hourly wage for a plumber was $21.94. The middle 50 percent made between $16.63 and $29.66. The top 10 percent of plumbers earned in excess of $37.93 hourly.
Advancement
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A commercial plumber oftentimes will not leave the office he works at. However, large offices sometimes have multiple plumbers. With a proven track record of experience, a commercial plumber can become a manager or supervisor of other commercial plumbers within a building.
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