10 Skills Needed to Be a Plumber

The skilled trades are hot. These professionals are increasingly in demand, and there are no signs of this letting up anytime soon. Entering into the trades is an excellent way to start earning income more quickly, reducing or even eliminating student debt, and embarking on a rewarding career with unlimited potential for growth and advancement. Plumbers are highly sought after, and this could be the opportunity you’ve been looking for. What are the plumbing skills needed to succeed in this trade?

Plumber Skills List

Now let’s lay this to rest. Plumbers do much more than wield a plunger or run Drano through clogged pipes. This field is highly technical and a great deal of training and apprenticeship is necessary.

Among the plumbing skills needed:


  • Technical Knowledge. Plumbing systems can be highly complex, and plumbers need to be able to apply their training and learning to the situations they run into in the field. From knowing the ins and outs of different systems to being able to install, troubleshoot, and repair components is essential.
  • Problem-Solving. Plumbers work in a variety of settings, and not everything always goes to plan on a construction site. They may encounter surprises hidden behind walls or underground. Regardless, they need to be able to stop, assess the situation, and develop a viable plan to move forward in a way that ensures the client/customer achieves their goals.
  • Math. Again, this is a technical field. Plumbers have to complete often complex calculations on the fly to ensure that components and systems work properly together.
  • Continual Learning. The plumbing industry is changing rapidly, and new technology is continually introduced. Good plumbers stay on top of the latest advancements in their field so they can apply the best solutions to the job at hand.
  • Proficiency with Tools. From snakes and wrenches to power threaders and blowtorches, plumbers work with a variety of tools. Knowing how to use them, and when, is critical.
  • Communication. Good plumbers are good communicators. Because this is a complex, technical field, they need to be able to explain their work and plans to contractors, other tradespeople, and customers who do not necessarily speak their language.
  • Customer Service. You are the face of your company when you visit a jobsite. Your ability to answer questions, listen to concerns, and provide timely and professional service is of the utmost importance.
  • Honesty and Integrity. In this business, your earnings depend on your reputation. People are trusting you with a vital part of their home, business, or other structure. Some plumbers may be responsible for the workings of an entire municipality or city. Regardless, operating with honesty, integrity, and transparency is mission-critical for plumbers.
  • Safety and Compliance. There is a seemingly endless list of codes and laws that govern plumbing systems. Professionals need to be aware of these – and of any changes that impact compliance.
  • Physical Fitness. Plumbing can be a physically taxing job. While the brain is the most important muscle for plumbers, they also need to have physical strength and stamina.

Interested in embarking on an exciting, rewarding career path? Contact us for more information.