Entry-Level Plumber

As per the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters is $61,550 as of May 2023, with hourly median pay of $29.59, expected to reach $66,000 annually by 2026 based on historical 2.5% annual wage growth trends. The lowest 10 percent earn less than $39,270 annually, while the top 10 percent earn more than $101,190. Salaries vary by state, with California averaging $71,980 and Texas $52,120.

As per U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, foreign workers for plumber jobs typically qualify for H-2B temporary non-agricultural visas if the position is seasonal or temporary with insufficient U.S. workers available; the FY2026 cap is projected at 130,000 visas similar to FY2025's 114,000 regular plus supplemental. Employers must obtain temporary labor certification from DOL before filing Form I-129, with processing fees of $460 base plus $500 fraud fee. Permanent options include EB-3 visas requiring PERM labor certification.

As per the Bureau of Labor Statistics, plumbers need a high school diploma or GED and completion of a 4- to 5-year apprenticeship with at least 2,000 hours of paid on-the-job training plus 144 hours per year of technical instruction. No college degree is required, but math and mechanical skills are essential. About 49,200 openings are projected annually through 2033 due to replacements.

As per the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Apprenticeship, required documents include a high school diploma or GED, proof of being at least 16 years old (18 for some programs), valid photo ID, Social Security card, and proof of legal work authorization. Applicants must also pass a physical exam confirming ability to perform strenuous work and may need a driver's license. Applications are submitted to state apprenticeship agencies or program sponsors via apprenticeship.gov/find-a-program.