If you're considering a plumbing career in Charlotte, NC, now is an ideal time to enter the trade. The plumbing industry in Charlotte is experiencing strong job growth, with over 146 job openings currently listed on platforms like Indeed and more than 600 positions on ZipRecruiter, indicating robust demand for skilled plumbers, apprentices, and technicians 12. As of 2025, the average hourly wage for plumbers in Charlotte is $28.49, translating to an annual salary of $59,279, which is largely in line with the national median of $60,090 as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics 3. With the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 6% employment growth for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters nationally between 2023 and 2033, Charlotte is well-positioned to be a strong market for plumbing professionals seeking steady employment, competitive compensation, and opportunities for advancement 4.
Plumbers in Charlotte are responsible for the installation, repair, maintenance, and troubleshooting of plumbing systems in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. Their work includes piping systems, water heaters, drainage setups, and fixtures, and often extends into more advanced areas like smart plumbing technology and sustainable systems 1. In addition to technical expertise, plumbers must interpret blueprints, adhere to local and national plumbing codes, and possess strong problem-solving skills. Given Charlotte's growing focus on plumbing systems resilient to extreme weather, plumbers may also work with leak detection technology or energy-efficient water heating systems, increasing the breadth of skills required to succeed in the trade. For more insights on industry trends, visit the 2025 Plumbing Industry Outlook.
Yes, plumbers in North Carolina must obtain state licensure to work independently. The licensing process is handled by the North Carolina State Board of Examiners of Plumbing, Heating & Fire Sprinkler Contractors—learn more through the official North Carolina licensing resources. There are three main licensing categories:
In all cases, applicants must undergo a background check, typically processed via CastleBranch.com, and must pass a licensing exam to receive certification.
If you're asking yourself, "How do I start a plumbing career in Charlotte?" there are two primary educational paths to consider:
Plumbing Apprenticeships:
The most common route to becoming a licensed plumber in Charlotte is through an apprenticeship, often lasting 4 to 5 years. Apprentices receive hands-on work experience while taking related classroom instruction covering plumbing codes, safety protocols, and installation techniques. Organizations like Cape Fear Community College and local Charlotte trade programs offer accredited apprenticeships, culminating in a Journeyman plumber credential after completion 36.
Vocational or Technical School:
Many aspiring plumbers enroll in plumbing certificate or degree programs, which provide a strong technical foundation and may count toward partial experience hours required for licensing 1. Programs typically cover pipe fitting, blueprints, and water systems, preparing students for apprenticeship opportunities or entry-level technician roles. Check out trends shaping the industry at UCFS.
To begin your journey in the plumbing trade, it’s crucial to find an apprenticeship, as this is where most plumbers start gaining hands-on experience.
| Plumbing Apprenticeship Type | Duration | Description |
|---|---|---|
| General Plumbing Apprenticeship | Approx. 4–5 years | Combines classroom instruction with on-the-job training, covering residential and commercial systems 1. |
| Commercial Plumbing Apprenticeship | Approx. 4–5 years | Focuses on large-scale commercial systems, with blueprint reading and teamwork skills emphasized 7. |
| Residential Plumbing Apprenticeship | Approx. 4–5 years | Covers home plumbing services like water heater installation, faucet repair, and full system replacements 7. |
How to Find an Apprenticeship in Charlotte:
Apprenticeships can act as a springboard to becoming a licensed plumbing technician or contractor, making this an essential early step for any aspiring plumber in Charlotte.
To begin an apprenticeship or training program in Charlotte:
While not always mandatory, technical training in plumbing provides a strong foundation before starting an apprenticeship. Many Charlotte-area vocational schools and community colleges offer plumbing certificate programs that cover pipe installation, fixture fitting, and code compliance 1. Explore more on industry trends via the Top Plumbing Trends.
Once accepted into a plumbing apprenticeship, you'll gain hands-on experience installing, repairing, and maintaining plumbing systems under the supervision of experienced, licensed plumbers. Apprenticeships typically last 4 to 5 years and include classroom instruction in conjunction with real-world training.
Upon completion of your apprenticeship, you're eligible to apply for your initial licensed status, either as a Plumbing Technician or Journeyman Plumber. This requires passing your state licensing exam, submitting proper experience logs, and clearing a background check.
With sufficient hands-on experience (typically 2 years as a licensed technician or journeyman plumber) and passing additional exams, you may qualify to become a Master Plumber or Plumbing Contractor in North Carolina, enabling you to supervise other plumbers, run your own business, and bid on larger commercial projects. For more detailed outlook, refer to the PM Magazine Article.
| Job Title | Job Description | Typical Experience Required |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Plumber | Works on large buildings and construction projects, reading blueprints and coordinating teams 7. | 3+ years for experienced roles |
| Residential Plumber | Performs in-home plumbing maintenance, including water heater installation and pipe repair 7. | Entry-level or licensed technician preferred |
| Plumber Technician | Entry or mid-level role covering everyday plumbing tasks in residential and commercial settings 7. | Apprenticeship or relevant technical training |
| Plumbing Apprentice | Entry-level role supporting plumbing operations under supervision 7. | No prior certification required |
| Plumbing Project Manager | Coordinates plumbing teams, manages timelines, and provides client education 7. | 2+ years with leadership experience |
With over 146 available plumbing jobs reported on Indeed, and hundreds more on ZipRecruiter, plumbing job availability in Charlotte remains strong in 2025, outpacing growth in many other U.S. cities 1. The median plumber salary in Charlotte is about $62,866, with a typical range between $54,391 and $71,404, based on experience, project complexity, and licensing level 5.
As the plumbing industry evolves, professionals in Charlotte are seeing an increased emphasis on smart and sustainable plumbing systems:
Being familiar with these advancements not only enhances job capabilities but also positions plumbers for better-paying roles or entrepreneurial opportunities in Charlotte. Learn more about key trends at UCFS Trends.
Despite the abundant plumber job opportunities in Charlotte, a few industry-specific challenges could impact the job market:
Starting your plumbing career in Charlotte, NC offers a path to a stable, lucrative, and rewarding career, especially with over 146 plumbing jobs listed locally and competitive salaries across the board. Whether you're a recent high school graduate or transitioning careers, following the steps to become a plumber in Charlotte ensures you enter an industry with consistent growth and opportunity.
Now is the perfect time to explore plumbing apprenticeships and start your journey toward becoming a licensed plumber.
Start Your Journey Today: Discover plumbing apprenticeships in Charlotte on Gild, a platform that connects aspiring plumbers with current apprenticeship opportunities across North Carolina. Aspiring plumbing professionals can browse hundreds of plumbing apprenticeship roles tailored to various experience levels, providing a clear path to a certified career in the trade.
https://www.pmmag.com/articles/106223-2025-plumbing-industry-outlook ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7 ↩8 ↩9 ↩10 ↩11
https://www.workiz.com/blog/plumbing/average-plumber-salary/ ↩ ↩2
Top 10 Plumbing Industry Trends to Watch for in 2025 ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
https://www.ucfs.net/trends-shaping-the-plumbing-industry/ ↩
https://www.indeed.com/q-plumbing-l-charlotte,-nc-jobs.html ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7
