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Plumber Jobs in the USA

This page describes the Plumber role category in the United States for international candidates. Because requirements and licensing vary by state and employer, the details below focus on what is most consistent across U.S. projects: scope of work, gross pay signals, practical requirements, and hiring workflow. CV is required for review.

CV is mandatory: candidates without a CV are not reviewed.

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Sector: Construction & Trades Typical route: EB-3 (skilled)* Work type: Permanent (project-based assignments) Last updated: —

Fast check: Candidate portrait

You can communicate in English on site (safety + coordination).
You have hands-on plumbing experience (residential, commercial, or construction).
You work clean: testing, documentation, and punch-list discipline.
You accept jobsite realities: travel, tight spaces, lifting, and occasional on-call work.

Position focus: What employers screen first

1) CV quality + verified experience

2) Tools familiarity (press-fit/thread/solder)

3) Safety mindset + reliability

4) State/licensing alignment (role-dependent)

Gross pay snapshot (USA)

This is a category-level baseline for plumbers in the U.S. market. Actual offers vary by state, licensing level, union/non-union environment, project type, and overtime availability.

Market reference	Hourly (gross)	Annual (gross)	How to read it
Entry / lower range (10th percentile)	$19.55	$40,670	Often helper-to-early-journey range, lower-cost markets, or limited scope
Median	$30.27	$62,970	Typical fully-productive plumber level (varies strongly by state)
Upper range (90th percentile)	$50.55	$105,150	High-demand markets, specialized scope, leadership, complex installs, consistent OT

Important: U.S. jobs frequently use weekly/biweekly payroll. Overtime can materially change total earnings. For most hourly roles, overtime is paid above 40 hours/week unless the position is legally exempt.

What may be included (offer-dependent)

Hourly gross base rate
Overtime premium (when applicable)
Per diem for travel projects (role/project-dependent)
Tool allowance (sometimes)

Health insurance options (employer plan)
Safety gear provided (minimum PPE)
Paid time off policies (varies)
Union benefits (where applicable)

Role snapshot

Plumbers install, repair, and test piping systems that carry water, gas, and other fluids in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.

Typical scope on projects

Rough-in: Layout, pipe runs, sleeves, hangers, basic coordination with other trades.
Finish: Fixtures, trim, final connections, commissioning support.
Service & repair: Diagnostics, leak repairs, drain work, component replacement, on-call jobs (employer-dependent).
Testing & handover: Pressure tests, punch lists, documentation habits that prevent rework.

Note: licensing and permitted scope are state- and employer-specific. Some tasks require a licensed plumber or direct supervision.

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Requirements (detailed)

Employers in the U.S. typically assess plumbers in four categories: safety + reliability, hands-on competence, documentation/communication, and (when applicable) licensing alignment.

Must-have (screen-out items)

CV in English with clear dates, scope, tools, and project types.
Practical plumbing experience (construction or service) that you can explain.
Safety discipline: PPE, ladder awareness, housekeeping, lockout awareness (site-dependent).
Ability to follow instructions, read measurements, and work to quality checks.
Availability for full-time schedules; overtime may be required on peak phases.

Strong advantage (raises offer quality)

Commercial installs experience (multi-unit, retail, hospitality, industrial).
Comfort with press tools (e.g., copper press), threading, solder/braze where used.
Blueprint reading and coordination with electrical/HVAC/fire protection on site.
Documenting tests and punch lists (reduces rework, improves trust).
Valid driver’s license and readiness to travel to job sites (project-dependent).

Licensing reality (summary): many states require plumbers to be licensed; permitted scope can depend on the license level and local rules. If licensing is required for the project, the employer typically defines whether you must already hold a license or can work under supervision.

Work conditions you should expect

Full-time schedule is standard; nights/weekends can occur (especially service/on-call).
Work in tight spaces, ladders, basements, mechanical rooms, and active construction zones.
Lifting and carrying materials; frequent kneeling, reaching, overhead work.
Outdoor work may be required (all weather) depending on site phase.

Practical tip: employers value plumbers who keep a clean zone and close tasks fully (test + label + document).

Safety & compliance (high priority)

Jobsite orientation and safety briefings are typical before starting.
PPE standards are enforced (minimum: boots, eye protection, gloves; role/site dependent).
Common hazards: cuts/burns, slips, ladder falls, and confined-space constraints.
Drug testing and background checks are common for many employers and sites.

You are evaluated not only on speed, but on incident-free reliability.

Payroll basics (gross)

Pay is commonly weekly or biweekly (employer policy).
For most hourly roles, overtime is generally paid for hours above 40/week unless exempt by law.
Direct deposit is common; accurate personal data is required for payroll setup.
Tools: some employers supply major tools; personal hand tools are often expected.

Note: this page shows gross pay. Net pay depends on taxes, location, and deductions.

A realistic “day on the job” (field note)

A plumber’s day often starts with a short coordination huddle: what areas are ready, what inspections are scheduled, and which lines must be pressure-tested before other trades close walls. The most valued plumbers are the ones who combine speed with clean execution: correct slopes, clean penetrations, labeled shutoffs, and tests that pass the first time.

Authorization disclaimer: Any U.S. work authorization route (e.g., EB-3) depends on the hiring employer, your eligibility, and official procedures. This page is informational and not legal advice.

Next steps (how hiring typically moves)

Create/upload your CV and keep phone/email correct.
We review fit by scope (residential/commercial), tools, and readiness for U.S. site standards.
If shortlisted, you proceed to employer interview and documentation steps (role-dependent).
Final terms are confirmed by the hiring employer (location, schedule, start date, and compensation).

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FAQ (Plumber — USA)

These answers are written for international candidates and focus on practical expectations.

Tip: your CV should show project type (residential vs commercial), tools, and tests you performed.

Related roles in Construction & Trades

Use these internal links to compare similar roles before applying.

Visa & authorization disclaimer: Any U.S. work authorization path (e.g., H-2A, H-2B, EB-3) depends on the hiring employer, eligibility, and official procedures. This page is informational and not legal advice.