Keep water, gas and drainage systems working safely.

Plumbers install, maintain and repair pipes, drains, guttering and roofing, as well as systems for water, gas, sewerage, heating, cooling and ventilation. They read plans and drawings to set out plumbing layouts and choose the right materials. Plumbers put in hot and cold water systems, fire protection systems, and sanitary fixtures. They build and install soil and waste stacks, drainage systems and pumping equipment. Their work also includes fitting gas appliances, flues and pressure devices, and fabricating metal roofing, rainwater goods and flashings.

For further information:

Master Plumbers Association of South Australia Inc
Ph: 8172 8800
Website: www.mpasa.com.au

Housing Industry Association (SA/NT)
Ph: (08) 8340 5900
Email: sa_enquiry@hia.com.au
Website: www.hia.com.au

TAFE SA offers courses relevant to this occupation including Certificate II in Plumbing Pathways and Certificate III in Plumbing. Certificate IV in Plumbing Services is offered as a post trade qualification, specialising in Operations or Hydraulics.

SA Apprenticeships are available in this occupation for further information go to the Traineeship & Apprenticeship Services Website at http://www.skills.sa.gov.au/apprenticeships-traineeships or phone the Freecall number 1800 673 097.

Job opportunities in the plumbing industry is usually through small firms or self-employment. Employment is also possible with federal, or state and territory government departments concerned with public works. Plumbers are involved in everything from domestic maintenance to high-rise construction.

With further training and experience, plumbers can become technical and sales representatives, building supervisors, building and construction managers, plumbing inspectors, hydraulics consultants, technical teachers, estimators, building contract administrators, purchasing officers or start their own business.

Demand is linked with activity in the construction industry. However, unlike other building trades, downturns in building activity have less effect on plumbers because of the work available in renovation and maintenance. Demand is also more stable because, by law, certain jobs must be performed by plumbers.

South Australian employers have reported experiencing shortages for this occupation.

All plumbers undertake the common tasks of drawing, interpreting and installing piping layouts, and the maintenance and repair of piping systems, although there are different levels of complexity across the specialisations. There are also differences in the type of pipe system and fixtures used. For example, plumbers deal with general water systems and fixtures, including sprinkler systems, basins and toilets, while gas fitters work with gas lines and gas related appliances, including hot water systems and space heating systems.

Drainers deal with sewerage and drain water piping systems, which include septic tanks, whereas roof plumbers deal primarily with the guttering systems of buildings. The installation, maintenance and repair of sprinkler systems and fire detection equipment is the task of fire protection workers. Irrigation installers design, install and maintain reticulation systems ranging from small areas such as residential gardens, to large areas like golf courses.

Plumbers and related workers need to be reasonably fit as this type of work can be physically demanding. To enjoy working in these occupations, you will also need to be good with your hands and able to tackle practical problems. One local plumber says, 'The opportunity to work outdoors and to choose from such a wide range of specialist areas, and other advantages such as the opportunity to make good money is what people can look forward to.'

Plumbers and related workers find employment with small contracting firms and in large plumbing firms, however, self employment opportunities, after considerable training in small business management are also possible. If this is the path you're hoping to follow, it would be wise to hone your business acumen skills now. A preparedness to keep abreast of changes in the industry will also help you keep up with your competitors. You'll need to be licensed with the Office of Water Regulation to work as a self employed plumber, or the Office of Energy if you are a gas fitter. Opportunities for advancement to supervisory positions also exist in these trade related occupations.