Plumber Job Description Example, Duties, and Responsibilities

This post provides detailed information on the plumber job description, including the key duties, tasks, and responsibilities they commonly perform.

It also highlights major requirements that you may be expected to meet to be hired for the plumber role.

What Does a Plumber Do?

Plumbers are responsible for the installation, modification, maintenance, and repair of plumbing fixtures for drainage and water systems.

The plumber job description entails overseeing the fitting and repair of sanitation systems such as bathtubs, showers, toilets, and sinks.

They also handle domestic appliances such as water heaters and dish washers to ensure they operate efficiently.

Plumbers in performing their duties inspect work sites to determine the type and amount of material/equipment required for a plumbing work.

They study blueprints to understand the structure of a water supply or drainage system.

Their role also entails testing plumbing systems to identify leaks and other faults.

Plumbers utilize a range of equipment/tools among which include wrench, spade, rule, and saw.

They use the equipment in measuring, cutting, threading, and assembling pipes and other plumbing structures.

Usually, they drill or cut holes in walls/floor to make room for the passage of pipes.

They also troubleshoot plumbing fixtures to perform repair or replacement of damaged components.

As part of their responsibilities, plumbers oversee the selection and procurement of materials required for a plumbing installation/repair.

They install plumbing systems such as sinks, toilets, tubs, and air conditioners, and also install supports and hangers for plumbing fixtures and pipes.

Usually, plumbers perform scheduled maintenance to ensure plumbing equipment are functioning efficiently.

Their work description also entails operating and monitoring pressure gauges in order to identify leaks and fix them.

They also evaluate all installations to ensure appropriate pipe sizes and grades are used.

In fulfilling their role, plumbers liaise with project managers to ensure plumbing operations align with overall construction objectives.

They ensure compliance with relevant building codes, legislations, and policies.

They also direct and coordinate the activities of trainee plumbers and plumbing assistants.

Plumbers as part their duties prepare cost estimates and budgets for a project.

They also conduct price negotiations to determine the rate for plumbing services.

To be hired as a plumber requires at least a high school diploma, which allows you to enroll into apprenticeship program, or into a trade school where you will be well trained for the job.

Some of the qualities you will require to excel in this job include physical strength and stamina, and problem-solving skills.

Plumber Job Description Example/Template

Plumbers perform various functions to keep a home’s water and drainage system working effectively.

Here is a job description example detailing the major duties, tasks, and responsibilities of plumbers:

• Maintain and repair damaged dish washers, broken pipes, and clogged drains
• Install underground sanitary, drainage, and water supply piping systems
• Set up systems for the supply of oxygen and other medical gas in hospitals and health facilities
• Assist pipefitters in the layout, assembly, and installation of pipe fixtures for water and air systems
• Cut pipes and transport to construction locations where they are required
• Utilize hand tools in fitting of valves, couplings and components for tanks, pumps or other plumbing system
• Select and oversee the procurement of construction materials and equipment
• Dig trenches/install pipes and piping fixtures for water or sewage systems
• Fill pipes with resin or sand to prevent distortion and ensure they are steady during installation
• Immerse pipes in chemical solutions such as bleach and dispersants to remove oil, dirt, and scale
• Mount hangers and brackets on walls to provide support for pipes
• Ensure compliance with building codes and set safety standards
• Measure, cut, thread, and assemble pipes to required angles using measurement tools
• Inspect plumbing systems to identify issues and initiate repairs
• Liaise with contractors, pipefitters, and other construction workers to ensure an effective plumbing system.

Requirements – Skills, Abilities, and Knowledge – for Plumber Job

To hire for the role of a plumber, most employers usually set the following requirements to be met by applicants before they are considered for the position:

• Education and Training: To become a plumber, you require a high school diploma and training at community colleges or trade school. You can also enroll for a 4-5 year apprenticeship program under an experienced plumber to gain relevant knowledge and skill. Plumbers are usually required to pass trade examinations in order to obtain licensure for practice
• Physical Strength: Plumbers are able to lift, handle, and move fairly heavy plumbing tools and materials such as plungers, wrenches, and domestic appliances
• Physical Stamina: They are able to withstand hours of work while standing, crouching or taking other rigorous positions
• Problem-solving Skills: They are versed in identifying plumbing problems and providing solutions to resolve such issues
• Assessment tests: To be accepted into an apprenticeship program or hired as a plumber, you may need to take and pass certain assessment tests. Find out about job assessment tests and how you can beat the competition.

Conclusion

The sample plumber job description provided in this post is useful to employers who are hiring for the position.

They can apply it in designing a work description that covers the major duties and responsibilities of the position, and therefore increase their chances of attracting the best plumbers for the job.

Also, individuals interested in becoming a plumber will also find the description given in this post useful in learning about the career and the responsibilities they may be assigned with when hired for the job.