Plumber

Learn to plan, install and service plumbing systems, fixtures, piping equipment and controls. These piping systems may be used to transport water, waste, gases or hot liquids.

If you like working independently, working in a variety of environments and enjoy developing specialized skills, you'll enjoy working as a plumber.

On a typical construction job, you'll do the roughing in after the frame and roof of a new building are in place. This means you will:

• study the building plans and specifications to determine the layout for the plumbing and other materials
• locate and mark the positions for connections and fixtures
• cut holes through walls and floors to accommodate pipes
• select the type and size of pipe required and measure, cut, thread, bend, clamp, solvent cement or solder pipe
• assemble and install valves and fittings
• join pipe sections and secure them in position
• test pipe systems for leaks
• install underground storm sanitary and water piping system.

After this is completed, you’ll return to the construction site after the plasterers or drywallers, tile setters and floor covering installers have completed their work to do the finishing work such as installing sinks, tubs and toilets.

You may also do residential repair and maintenance work in individuals’ homes, commercial and institutional structures. You will provide customer service for renovations or common plumbing problems that occur in houses and multi-home structures.

This is a compulsory trade - to work in this trade you need to hold a recognized trade certificate or be a registered apprentice.

Alberta plumber apprenticeship program includes gasfitter - class B certification. This means plumber apprentices who successfully complete all of the requirements for the plumber program will receive two Alberta Journeyperson Certificates, plumber and gasfitter - class B. Apprentices have to write both the plumber and the gasfitter - class b interprovincial exams to earn both Red Seal certificates.

Is this the right fit for me?

Students who have the following characteristics see greater success in the pipe trades:

• the physical stamina required to use proper lifting techniques for heavy pipes, be on your feet for long periods of time and work in cramped positions
• mechanical ability
• the ability to estimate and measure size and lengths accurately
• the ability to work independently or with a team
• good customer service and communication skills
• a commitment to safe working conditions

Credentials

Upon successfully completing the required working hours and apprenticeship education periods, graduates will be awarded journeyperson status by Alberta’s Apprenticeship and Industry Training. Alberta plumber apprentices include gasfitter - class b certification.

Plumbers are a Red Seal Endorsed trade — a recognizable standard that allows tradespeople to work across Canada. Plumbers can also receive a Red Seal endorsement for Gasfitter - class B.