How much does a plumber helper make?

In the US, pay can differ with a helper’s skill and the employer’s industry. Work location and hours matter too, and some jobs include nights, weekends, or emergency calls.

Help plumbers, pipefitters, steamfitters, or pipelayers by performing duties requiring less skill. Duties include using, supplying, or holding materials or tools, and cleaning work area and equipment. Construction laborers who do not primarily assist plumbers, pipefitters, steamfitters, or pipelayers are classified under “Construction Laborers” (47-2061). Apprentice workers are classified with the appropriate skilled construction trade occupation (47-2011 through 47-2231).

What's a typical day like?

A helper carries tools and pipe, measures and cuts pieces, and helps fit them into supports or holes in walls. They also fetch supplies and clean the work area.

Many plumber helpers start after high school or a GED and learn on the job by carrying tools, holding materials, and cleaning up. Later, a 4–5-year paid apprenticeship with classroom study is a common route to plumbing work, and most states require plumbers to be licensed.

High school plus some training (preparation level 2 of 5)

Good for people who like building and doing and keeping things organized.

In the US, plumber helpers may work nights, weekends, and even emergency calls—not just regular daytime hours.