Embarking on a career in the plumbing trade in San Jose, CA, typically begins with an apprenticeship, blending hands-on experience with classroom learning, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships last about four to five years, requiring many hours of training under licensed professionals. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are approximately 736,000 plumbers nationwide, with a median annual wage of $61,550, equivalent to $1,183 per week. In San Jose, plumbers enjoy an average salary of $88,419 annually, translating to $1,700 per week. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like Gild help aspiring plumbers find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $108,000 annually for experienced professionals.
