Plumber

So, you want to be a plumber? Can you:

• Learn to use different types of equipment to get the job done
• Work at height sometimes as well as working in drainage pits
• Use physical strength to lift heavy items such as extension ladders or pipes

What does a Plumber do? 

Plumbers lay, test and maintain pipes, fixtures, metal roofing, fittings, gas meters and regulators. They install equipment such as boilers, pumps, heating and cooling systems, natural gas appliances, water tanks and solar water heating systems.

Install, commission, maintain and test plumbing and drainage services in all classes of buildings and premises, including, but not limited to, the following-

1. compressed air, heating, steam, vacuum or ventilation systems; 
2. irrigation; 
3. metal fascias and gutters; 
4. on-site domestic waste water management systems; 
5. roof and wall cladding; 
6. skylights.
7. use different tools and equipment to get the job done. This may include pipe cutters, angle grinders, jackhammers, drills, and many more. 

How do I become a plumber?

Firstly, you will need to do some work experience so that you know what the job is about. If you think it’s for you, find an employer that is looking for an apprentice plumber. You will then become an apprentice and will you will complete a certificate III in Plumbing and Drainage at a Registered Training Organisation (RTO).

Once you have completed the four year apprenticeship, you will be a qualified tradie!

What Next?

Once you are a tradie in the construction industry, you can continue working for small or large companies and move into leading hand, supervising or management positions. You might even want to start your own business and employ apprentices yourself. Some tradies even go on to further education to complete courses from Certificate IV to bachelor level. There are plenty of options for qualified Plumbers.