The plumbing trade in Anchorage, AK, is poised for significant growth and opportunity by 2025, making it an attractive career path for aspiring tradespeople. With projected employment growth of 11% in the plumbing, pipefitting, and steamfitting sector from 2020 to 2030—well above the national average—Anchorage offers a strong job outlook for licensed plumbers 1. For economic forecasts, review the 2025 Alaska Economic Forecast, which highlights regional demand. Average hourly wages stand at $37.08, with top earners making up to $55.43 per hour, reflecting both demand and specialization potential in the region 23. To enter the field, candidates must complete a five-year apprenticeship (10,000 hours) through programs like Local 367 45, and you can find more training details on the Plumbers Training Website. Licensing requires passing both state and municipal exams, with a minimum of 12,000 hours of verified experience 67. Plumbers in Anchorage also benefit from emerging technologies, including smart plumbing systems and touchless fixtures, which are detailed in industry trends reports, shaping the future of the trade 89. Whether you're starting from scratch or looking to advance, Anchorage provides a stable, well-compensated career path in a high-demand industry.
Plumbers in Anchorage play a critical role in maintaining and installing water supply, drainage, and sanitation systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. Their responsibilities include:
Given Anchorage’s harsh climate and remote location, plumbers must also be prepared to handle extreme weather conditions, specialized heating systems, and energy-efficient upgrades, making the trade both challenging and essential to the region’s infrastructure.
Yes, licensing is required to work as a plumber in Anchorage. The process involves two key steps:
Additionally, plumbers must provide proof of at least 12,000 hours of practical experience, verified through notarized letters from certified contractors, or credit from a recognized mechanical school 7.
The primary pathway to becoming a licensed plumber in Anchorage is through the Plumbers and Pipefitters Local Union 367 apprenticeship program. This five-year, 10,000-hour program includes:
Apprentices start at approximately $20.50 per hour, with 10% raises after completing 12 months and 2,000 hours of work 6. The training center is located on Potter Drive in Anchorage, and the program is fully accredited, offering the possibility of college credit 8.
To apply, visit the Anchorage Area Plumbers & Pipefitters Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee website or use platforms like Gild to find open apprenticeship opportunities in Anchorage 2. Explore Gild's job listings for current openings.
| Apprenticeship Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 5 years (10,000 hours) |
| On-the-Job Training | Paid, with scheduled raises |
| Classroom Training | 6 weeks/year, unpaid (may qualify for unemployment) |
| Starting Wage | $20.50/hour |
| Location | Potter Drive, Anchorage |
| Accreditation | Fully accredited, college credit available |
To qualify for a plumbing apprenticeship in Anchorage, you must:
While not mandatory, completing a pre-apprenticeship training program can give you a competitive edge. These programs are offered by AVTEC and other technical schools and cover:
Apply to the Local 367 apprenticeship program or search for opportunities through Gild. Once accepted, you’ll begin a structured training program that includes:
After completing the apprenticeship, you can apply for a Journeyman Plumber License by:
To advance further, you can pursue a Master Plumber License, which allows you to:
This requires additional experience and passing a more advanced exam.
Plumbers in Anchorage enjoy above-average wages compared to the national average. As of May 2025:
The cost of living in Anchorage is 33% higher than the national average, with rent averaging $1,500/month and utilities costing $250–$350/month 710. However, plumbing careers offer competitive wages that can offset these expenses, making it a financially viable and stable career option.
By 2025, several technological advancements are shaping the plumbing trade in Anchorage:
These trends are increasing the demand for technically skilled plumbers who can install, maintain, and repair modern, high-efficiency systems.
Starting a career in the plumbing trade in Anchorage, AK, offers a stable, well-paying, and in-demand profession. With projected job growth, competitive wages, and structured apprenticeship programs, now is an excellent time to enter the field. Whether you're just finishing high school or looking to change careers, the plumbing trade provides a clear path to success.
To begin your journey, explore plumbing apprenticeship opportunities in Anchorage through platforms like Gild, or apply directly to the Local 367 apprenticeship program. With the right training and dedication, you can build a long-term, rewarding career in one of Alaska’s most essential trades. Find more resources on Gild.
https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Licensed-Plumber-Salary-in-Anchorage,AK ↩ ↩2
https://www.indeed.com/career/plumber/salaries/AK ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7 ↩8 ↩9
https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Plumber-Salary--in-Alaska ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7 ↩8
https://www.indeed.com/career/journeyperson-plumber/salaries/Anchorage--AK ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6
https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Licensed-Plumber-Salary-in-Anchorage,AK ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
