Plumbers are always needed. Even when the economy slows, people must fix leaks and keep water running. In Los Angeles, plumbers are especially busy. This is because more and more people are coming to live in LA, and many new buildings are being constructed, most notably thanks to the water-saving rules.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says jobs for plumbers will grow 5% by 2030. That means about 23,400 new plumbing jobs nationwide. In LA, even more plumbers will be needed. However, the real challenge is finding good and skilled plumbers because they all seem already engaged in a project.
Good Pay and Training
Plumbers in LA earn good money. Beginners make about $46,000 a year. Experienced plumbers can earn $63,000 or more. The job also has clear steps to get started. Most plumbers learn through apprenticeships. These programs combine paid work with classroom lessons. Apprentices spend thousands of hours on job sites and hundreds of hours in class. They learn about safety, plumbing codes, and tools.
Some of the best training programs in LA include AJ Training in Compton and UA Plumbers 78 in downtown LA. If you want to be part of it, you must be at l; least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and be able to work legally in the U.S. Plumbing is physical work, so you must be in good shape.
Hard Work and Challenges
Being a plumber is not easy. It’s a physical job, and plumbers often work in tight spaces or lift heavy tools. Cuts, burns, and falls are common. Plumbers also work long hours. Nights and weekends are usually part of the job, especially during emergencies.
Despite these challenges, many plumbers find the work rewarding. They solve problems and help people. To succeed, plumbers need more than technical skills. They also need to communicate well and provide good customer service.
Plumbers and Property Managers
In California, plumbers and property managers work closely together. As Priority One Real Estate property managers say, they rely heavily on plumbers to keep their buildings running. Plumbers handle leaks, clogged drains, and broken pipes. They also install water-saving systems like low-flow toilets. These upgrades help property managers save money and attract tenants.
This partnership benefits both sides. Property managers get reliable help, and plumbers get steady work from big clients. As water conservation becomes more critical, teamwork only grows.
A Shortage of Skilled Workers
Even though plumbers are in high demand, there aren’t enough. A 2021 report said over half of contractors can’t find enough plumbers. This shortage is slowing down projects and driving up costs. The COVID-19 pandemic made things worse, with more people renovating homes and supply chains delayed.
The shortage has made hiring plumbers more expensive. According to the Earnest Homes website, contractors and property managers have to work harder to find skilled workers. Delays are typical for big projects, and budgets often increase.
Finding Solutions
To deal with the shortage, many companies are using staffing agencies. These agencies connect contractors with trained plumbers. They handle payroll and insurance so contractors can focus on the work, making it easier to complete projects on time.
For anyone considering a plumbing career, now is a great time. The pay is good, the training is clear, and the job is secure. In a city like Los Angeles, plumbers will always be in demand.