Want to Become a Plumber? Here’s What You Need to Know

Thinking about a career in plumbing? Here’s a breakdown of the journey from apprentice to master plumber, and why Atlanta is a great place to get started.

If you're handy, enjoy problem-solving, and are looking for a career that offers long-term stability, solid pay, and real-world impact, plumbing might be your perfect fit. And in a growing city like Atlanta, demand for skilled plumbers isn’t slowing down.

Whether you’re fresh out of high school or looking to switch careers, here’s what to know about the different levels of plumbing jobs and how to get started.

Apprentice Plumber: Learn While You Earn

Every plumbing career starts with an apprenticeship. As an apprentice, you’ll work under the supervision of a licensed plumber while completing classroom training (typically through a trade school or union program). You’ll learn the fundamentals of:

• Pipe fitting and installation.
• Water and drainage systems.
• Local plumbing codes.
• Safety and tool use.

How long it takes: Usually 2–4 years

Why it’s great: You get paid to learn, and the hands-on experience is invaluable.

Check out our current paid plumbing apprenticeship opportunities here.

Service Technician

Once you’ve got a few years of experience and some certifications under your belt, you can step into a service technician role. This is where many plumbers find their niche—diagnosing problems, handling repairs, and interacting directly with homeowners and business owners.

Service techs are the face of the company, so if you’re friendly, solution-oriented, and like variety in your day, this job could be your calling.

What You’ll Need

• Apprentice-level experience
• Clean driving record
• Strong communication skills
• Ability to work independently

View our open service technician positions here.

Journeyman Plumber

After completing your apprenticeship and passing the state licensing exam, you’ll become a journeyman plumber. This license allows you to work on more complex systems and take on projects with less supervision.

Journeymen often lead job sites, train apprentices, and start focusing on specialized skills like commercial plumbing, gas line installation, or advanced diagnostics.

What it Takes:

• Completed apprenticeship.
• Passing a written exam.
• Working hours logged with the state of Georgia.

Apply for journeyman-level positions with our team.

Master Plumber: Top of the Trade

The master plumber license is the highest level in the plumbing field. These professionals oversee large projects, pull permits, run businesses, and are qualified to train and supervise others.

To become a master plumber in Georgia, you’ll need several years of journeyman experience and must pass a rigorous state exam. It’s a big leap, but it opens up leadership opportunities and the potential to run your own plumbing company.

Why it’s Worth it:

• Greater independence and earning potential.
• Ability to mentor the next generation.
• Opportunities to specialize or manage larger teams.

Interested in working with us as a master plumber? Get in touch.

Start Your Plumbing Career in Atlanta With Plumb Works

Atlanta’s rapid growth means more construction, more homes, and more demand for qualified plumbers. It’s a solid career choice with long-term stability, and it all starts with one step.

Whether you're just getting started or looking to advance in your plumbing career, we’re always looking for dedicated professionals to join our team.

Explore all current job openings at Plumb Works and apply today!