Introduction
A master plumber is a skilled professional who has achieved a high level of expertise in plumbing. They are responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of all types of plumbing systems. Being a master plumber requires extensive knowledge and experience, so it’s no surprise that they can make good money. But how much do master plumbers make? This article explores the salary of a master plumber, including average salary, education and experience impact, benefits, job outlook, and lucrative specialties.
Average Master Plumber Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters was $53,910 in May 2019. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $31,450, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $91,640. So, what does this mean for master plumbers? Generally speaking, master plumbers make more than the national average, but the exact amount depends on many factors, such as region, experience, and industry.
Regional and State Differences
The BLS also reported that the states with the highest employment level for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters in 2018 were Texas, California, Florida, New York, and Pennsylvania. In terms of salary, the top five states with the highest wages were Alaska ($85,420 annually), Hawaii ($77,890), New Jersey ($77,460), Illinois ($76,570), and Washington ($75,870). As expected, the states with the lowest wages were Mississippi ($35,490), South Dakota ($38,170), Arkansas ($39,790), West Virginia ($41,800), and Montana ($42,100).
Education and Experience Impact
Level of Education: Aspiring master plumbers must have a high school diploma or equivalent and complete an apprenticeship program. After that, they must pass a state-administered exam to become a licensed master plumber. The higher the level of education, the higher the salary potential.
Years of Experience: With experience comes higher wages. The more years of experience a master plumber has, the more money they can potentially earn. According to PayScale, the average salary for a master plumber with 1-4 years of experience is around $48,000, while those with 5-9 years of experience make an average of $58,000. Those with 10-19 years of experience make an average of $67,000, and those with 20+ years of experience make an average of $72,000.
Benefits of Becoming a Master Plumber
In addition to the potential for high earnings, there are other benefits to becoming a master plumber. Here are a few of them:
- Job Security: Plumbing is an essential service, so master plumbers are always in demand. Plus, the plumbing industry is expected to grow by 12 percent from 2018 to 2028, according to the BLS.
- Increased Earning Potential: With experience and increased responsibility, master plumbers can command higher salaries.
- Professional Recognition: Becoming a master plumber is a sign of expertise and professionalism that can open doors to new opportunities.
Salaries by Industry
Master plumbers can work in a variety of industries, each of which has its own pay scale. Here are some of the most common industries for master plumbers and their average salaries, according to PayScale:
- Residential Construction: $58,000
- Commercial Construction: $62,000
- Industrial Maintenance: $70,000
- Government Contractors: $74,000
Job Outlook for Master Plumbers
The demand for master plumbers is expected to remain strong over the next decade. As the population continues to grow, the need for plumbing services will also increase. Additionally, new technologies, such as solar and geothermal, are becoming increasingly popular, creating a need for specialized plumbers.
Lucrative Specialties for Master Plumbers
There are several lucrative specialties for master plumbers, including industrial maintenance, solar installation, geothermal installation, and energy auditing. Industrial maintenance requires specialized skills and knowledge, so it often pays well. Solar and geothermal installation are also in demand due to the increasing popularity of renewable energy sources. Finally, energy auditing is becoming more important as businesses look for ways to reduce their energy costs.
Conclusion
Becoming a master plumber is a great way to earn a good living. Master plumbers make more than the national average salary and can benefit from job security, increased earning potential, and professional recognition. Salaries vary by region, experience, and industry, but there are plenty of lucrative specialties for master plumbers to pursue. If you’re looking to make a good living, becoming a master plumber is a great option.
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