Journeyman Plumber

A journeyman plumber performs basic plumbing installations or repairs, such as replacing faucets or installing water lines. They are entry-level workers who have recently completed an apprenticeship program and have completed or obtained certification as a Journeyman Plumber. Journeyman plumbers display strong eye-hand coordination, physical ability to crawl, crouch, and/or kneel for long periods of time, and effective customer service skills. They work on both residential and commercial plumbing systems.

Journeyman Plumber Requirements and Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent.

• Completion of technical training through a trade school or apprenticeship.

• State licensure.

• Valid driver's license.

• Physical stamina.

• Ability to design and lay out 1 and 2 story residential buildings.

• Waste & Vent.

• Domestic water.

• Ability to read blueprints, isometric drawings and other technical drawings and documents.

• You will also oversee apprentice plumbers who have not achieved their journeyman status.

• All employees must follow OSHA regulations and maintain a clean workspace.

• Ability to size waste lines properly, according to the IPC Plumbing Code. 

• Ability to stand & walk, reach outward constantly, frequently lift/carry up to 50 pounds

Journeyman Plumbers Duties and Responsibilities:

• Install and repair plumbing and drainage systems.

• Locate and repair leaks in piping.

• Install or replace fixtures.

• Clear drain blockages.

• Oversee apprentices on-site.

• Document issues and repairs.

• Follow OSHA regulations.

• Setting of all fixtures – i.e., water closets, lavatories, tubs, showers, sinks, water heaters.

Master Plumber

A master plumber is a licensed professional who has completed the master plumber certification and can install, maintain, and repair water, waste, and gas systems in residential and commercial buildings. A master plumber can also sketch and read blueprints, provide job estimates, obtain permits, and train apprentices. A master plumber must follow all codes and safety regulations and have an advanced understanding of plumbing and related equipment.

Master Plumber Qualifications and Requirements:

• High school diploma or equivalent

• State licensure

• Valid driver's license

• Must be able to read blueprints, and independently lay out work

• Skilled in the use of wrenches, pipe-cutting and threading tools, acetylene torches, metal, and other similar tools of the plumbing trade, including the Rigid Pro-Press system

• Must be able to lift, push, or pull 50 pounds

• Work in crawl spaces, above ceilings, machine rooms, and other occupational areas

Master Plumber Duties and Responsibilities:

• Locate and mark pipes, connection positions, and passage holes for pipes in walls and floors using ruler, spirit level, and plumb bob

• Use hand and power tools to cut openings in walls and floors to accommodate pipe and pipe fittings

• Use pipe cutters, torch cutting and pipe-threading machine to cut and thread pipes

• Use pipe bending machine to bend pipe to required angles

• Assemble and install valves, pipe fittings, and pipes made from metals or non-metals

• Join pipes using screws, bolts, fittings, solder, plastic solvent, and caulk joints

• Fill pipe system with water or air and read pressure gauges to ensure the system is not leaking

• Repair and maintain plumbing by replacing washers, mending burst pipes, and opening clogged drains

• May perform welding

• Perform routine inspections

Foreman

Plumbing foremen are responsible for overseeing the work of plumbers and other workers on a project. They ensure that all plumbing installations, repairs, and remodels are completed according to code and in a timely manner. Plumbing foremen must be able to effectively communicate with their team members as well as clients or customers. This means they need to be able to clearly explain what needs to be done and why it needs to be done that way. It also means they need to be able to listen to feedback from their team and respond appropriately.

Foreman Qualifications and Requirements:

• High school diploma or equivalent

• Journeyman Plumber License preferred

• Ability to perform work accurately and thoroughly, including under stressful situations.

• Must be able to exercise fine motor control and possess excellent hand-eye coordination

• Demonstrate dependability and trustworthiness

• Ability to demonstrate conduct conforming to a set of values and accepted standards

• Ability to make decisions and take actions to solve a problem

• Ability to stand & walk, reach outward constantly, frequently lift/carry up to 50 pounds

• Frequently reaching above shoulders, crawling, squatting, kneeling, bending

• Strong communication skills

 Foreman Duties and Responsibilities:

• Overseeing the work of plumbers and other workers to ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget

• Maintaining a safe work environment by following OSHA regulations

• Communicating with clients about project status and any issues that may arise during construction

• Scheduling and coordinating work crews to ensure that projects stay on schedule and within budget

• Inspecting plumbing systems to ensure that they are functioning properly, including water heaters, boilers, and pipes

• Supervising the installation of plumbing fixtures such as sinks, faucets, toilets, and showers

• Coordinating with other contractors to ensure that all trades are working together efficiently and effectively

• Hiring, training, supervising, and terminating employees as necessary to ensure the efficient operation of the department