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Plumber

Plumbers install and repair water, heating and drainage systems. Consistent demand across housing and commercial work makes it one of the most reliable trades to enter.

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Career fit

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Entry level
£18k – £24k (apprentice / newly qualified)
Mid-career (typical)
£24k – £50k
Senior / lead
£40k – £65k+ (self-employed)
What you'll do

A day in the life

  • Install boilers, radiators and pipework
  • Diagnose and repair leaks
  • Fit bathrooms and kitchens
  • Service heating systems
  • Advise customers on repairs
The path

Your career roadmap

Every milestone from school to senior. Track progress as you complete each stage.

  1. 1

    GCSEs

    education
    2 yrs

    Maths and English.

  2. 2

    Level 2 Diploma

    qualification
    1 yr

    College intro to plumbing.

  3. 3

    Apprenticeship

    experience
    2–4 yrs

    Earn while learning on-site.

  4. 4

    Level 3 Diploma

    qualification
    1 yr

    Advanced plumbing techniques.

  5. 5

    Gas Safe Registration

    certification
    —

    Required to work on gas.

  6. 6

    Qualified Plumber

    role
    2+ yrs

    Independent work.

  7. 7

    Heating Engineer

    role
    3+ yrs

    Specialise in heating systems.

  8. 8

    Self-Employed / Master

    role
    5+ yrs

    Run your own business.

What you need

Skills you'll build

PipeworkGas safetyProblem solvingCustomer service
Qualifications
  • GCSEs
  • Level 2 & 3 Plumbing Diploma
  • Apprenticeship (2–4 yrs)
Certifications
  • Gas Safe Register
  • WRAS approval

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