As of February 2025, Washington, MD presents 40 plumber job openings with competitive compensation ranging between $20-$60K+ annually, including incentives like sign-on bonuses up to $3,000 in select roles 12. This guide provides a comprehensive roadmap to entering and advancing within this growing trade, including licensing requirements, training pathways, and career prospects. For more job data, check Zippia Job Trends.
Plumbers are specialized tradespeople who install, maintain, and repair piping systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings3. Their work spans everything from fixing leaking faucets and installing water heaters in homes to managing complex pipe systems in new construction projects4. Modern plumbers often specialize in areas like commercial plumbing, sewer line repair, or HVAC integration, expanding their career flexibility in Washington, MD and the surrounding region5. For detailed career insights, visit the BLS Plumbers Page.
Some specialized roles in high demand by 2025 include:
Yes, to legally work as a plumber in Maryland, professionals must obtain the appropriate license through the Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation8. Washington, MD follows the state’s licensing framework which requires:
Notably, Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission may impose local exam requirements specific to the area, so applicants should consult the local board before pursuing full licensure10. For employment opportunities, explore Len the Plumber.
A plumbing apprenticeship in Washington, MD combines hands-on training and classroom instruction over 4-5 years8. Participants earn while they learn, with wages increasing as technical proficiency develops.
Key apprenticeship components:
Applicants must hold a high school diploma or GED, possess a valid ID (such as a driver’s license), and have reliable transportation for job site mobility8. Union programs, like UA Local 486 Plumbers & Steamfitters Apprenticeship, offer structured training pathways with clear wage progression6. Check salary details on Talent.com.
Follow this clear pathway to become a licensed professional in Washington, MD:
The plumbing landscape in Washington, MD features a healthy blend of residential and commercial openings with competitive compensation:
| Job Title | Key Details | Average Pay Range |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Service Plumber | Fixtures, water heaters, toilets – No weekends/emergency work available | $20-$40/hour1 |
| Licensed Journeyman Plumber | Diagnose and repair systems – Possible $3,000 sign-on bonus2 | $27-$35/hour2 |
| Commercial Field Supervisor | Overseeing construction and renovation projects – Requires license6 | $28-$55/hour1 |
| Drain & Sewer Technician | Specializing in Hydro-Jetting and drain clearing | $24+$hour6 |
| Branch Manager (HVAC/Plumbing) | Hybrid management and technical work – Requires leadership experience2 | $55K-$75K+ annually5 |
In Maryland as a whole, the average plumber earns $66,826 annually, with wages ranging from $24 to $40 per hour10. Entry-level plumbers typically start around $54,356 per year but can see significant increases when acquiring specialized skills like welding or HVAC integration5.
Career progression can boost income by as much as 40% or more, particularly when moving into supervisory positions like branch manager or opening a plumbing business. Urban areas like Baltimore, Columbia, and Washington, D.C. suburbs generally command higher salaries compared to rural regions of Washington County2. Dive deeper into industry data at IBISWorld.
While opportunity abounds, several potential hurdles exist for aspiring plumbers:
Competition: With only about 40 plumbing jobs in Washington County, MD, competition can be intense without the right qualifications10. Having a journeyman certification makes candidates significantly more competitive.
Licensing Barriers: Meeting Maryland’s strict apprenticeship and examination requirements takes time and dedication8. The state’s focus on quality ensures high standards but requires commitment from trainees.
Skill Requirements: Employers commonly emphasize the need for excellent customer service skills, especially for plumbers serving residential clients9. Additionally, premium skills in welding or construction plumbing give candidates an edge2.
Background Considerations: Some employers conduct criminal background checks, which may affect hiring decisions10.
Starting a plumbing career in Washington, MD opens doors to a stable, well-compensated profession with strong growth projected through 2025 and beyond4. With the right training, licensing, and skills development, plumbers can access high-paying roles with advancement potential.
Ready to get started? Explore current plumbing apprenticeship opportunities in Washington, MD at Gild’s job listings — your first step toward a successful career in this essential trade. For more job listings, check Indeed in Washington County. Whether you're interested in residential installations, commercial maintenance, or specialized roles like drain technician, the plumbing field offers clear pathways to success. Begin your journey today and position yourself at the forefront of this growing industry in Washington, MD.
https://www.indeed.com/q-plumbing-l-maryland-jobs.html ↩ ↩2 ↩3
https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Jobs/Year-Plumbing/--in-Washington ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7
https://www.lloydplumbing.com/commercial-plumbing-jobs-maryland-washington-dc-virginia/ ↩
https://www.indeed.com/q-plumber-l-washington-county,-md-jobs.html ↩ ↩2 ↩3
https://www.servicetitan.com/licensing/plumbing/maryland ↩ ↩2 ↩3
https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Jobs/Plumbing/-in-Olney,MD ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
https://www.ualocal486.com/training.aspx?zone=training&pID=5046 ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6
https://marylandphcc.com/plumbing-apprenticeship-program-maryland/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5
https://local5plumbers.org/training.aspx?zone=Training&pID=4575 ↩ ↩2
https://onestop.md.gov/licenses/apprentice-plumber-gas-fitter-license-5d1540a454f24d03e9997e1b ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5
