Plumber Resume Sample and Writing Tips

Plumbers work in both commercial and residential settings to repair, install, and maintain plumbing fixtures and systems for drainage, heating, drinking, venting, and sewage. A large part of the job involves the ability to work with building blueprints to assess layouts of plumbing systems and the water supply. "Wet-only plumbers" handle piping systems in bathrooms and radiators. "Gas-only plumbers" focus on industrial work.

While plumbers are responsible for a wide range of tasks, there are basic skills that apply to all jobs. Here are some to highlight on your resume, along with a few writing tips about how to create a winning resume.

Outlook for Plumber Jobs

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook, career prospects are bright for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters. The 2019 median pay for individuals in these roles was $55,160 per year ($26.52 per hour), and the number of available jobs is expected to increase 14% by 2028 .

Plumber Job Responsibilities 

• Determine what type of plumbing and drainage systems need to be designed
• Review blueprints to determine the type of materials needed to install plumbing systems
• Choose the pipes and other fixtures according to the building blueprint specifications
• Select the materials to install in ​the plumbing system
• Install plumbing and drainage systems to meet clients’ specifications
• Test plumbing system performance and makes changes as needed to achieve proper working order
• Install fittings and valves
• Install sinks, tubs, toilets and water heaters
• Prepare budgets covering supplies, equipment, and tools
• Perform maintenance on fixtures and pipes as needed
• Perform diagnostic tests and repair faulty systems
• Repair leaks and test pipe systems

Plumbing Skills to Feature on a Resume

• Demonstrated track record troubleshooting complex plumbing systems
• Background working with a range of pipe materials and fittings
• Top-level knowledge in assembling, modifying, and fixing plumbing systems
• Sound abilities in installing pipes fixtures for water, heat, and drainage systems
• Extensive knowledge of trade practices and plumbing codes
• Familiarity with both industrial and commercial plumbing protocols
• Able to estimate materials, equipment costs, and labor time
• Able to perform hydrostatic and pressure tests to locate leakages
• Efficient execution of plumbing orders using blueprints and drawings
• Adept at utilizing and maintaining plumbing tools and equipment
• Proficient with safely making holes in walls and ceilings to access piping
• Skilled in measuring and cutting different size pipes
• Works well independently and without supervision
• Organizes and maintains efficient and accurate records and daily activity reports

Writing Tips for Plumber Resumes

Showcase your skills. If a specific skill is listed as a “Preferred” or “Minimum” qualification on a job advertisement, be sure to mention this on your resume (ideally at the beginning, so that whoever reviews your resume will immediately see that you are a good candidate for the job). Consider adding a dedicated skills section to your resume so that your qualifications are clear at a single glance.

List all training and certifications. Your training, apprenticeships, and certifications should be outlined in the “Education” section of your resume. This is also a good place to mention any labor union memberships or other professional affiliations.

Proofread. Read and then reread your resume and its accompanying cover letter to ensure that they are free of spelling, grammatical, and / or formatting errors. Here are some good proofreading tips to ensure that your documents are letter-perfect. 

Plumber Resume Example

A resume example can help you decide what kind of content to include, as well as how to format your resume. However, be sure to tailor the sample to fit your own experiences, and the job you are applying for.