Residential Service Plumber Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of home maintenance, the demand for residential service plumbers has never been higher.

As homes continue to evolve and modernize, the need for skilled professionals who can install, repair, and maintain residential plumbing systems increases.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a residential service plumber?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker attempting to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager mapping out the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the ins and outs of residential plumbing,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable residential service plumber job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Residential Service Plumber Duties and Responsibilities

Residential Service Plumbers are responsible for the installation, repair, and maintenance of plumbing systems in residential environments.

They must have the knowledge and skills to handle complex plumbing tasks and ensure that all the plumbing systems are functioning properly.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Evaluating clients’ plumbing issues in residential properties and providing appropriate solutions
• Installing, repairing, and maintaining plumbing systems including pipes, valves, faucets, drains, and fixtures
• Inspecting plumbing systems and identifying issues that need to be addressed
• Providing estimates for plumbing services and explaining the work to be done to the clients
• Following the safety standards and building regulations during the installation and repair process
• Responding to emergency calls for plumbing repairs and leaks
• Keeping records of the work done, time spent, and parts used for billing and inventory purposes
• Ordering and maintaining inventory of plumbing supplies and equipment
• Advising clients on how to maintain their plumbing systems and providing them with tips to prevent plumbing issues in the future

 

Residential Service Plumber Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are currently seeking an experienced and dedicated Residential Service Plumber to join our team.

Your role will involve installing, repairing, and maintaining pipes, valves, fittings, drainage systems, and fixtures in residential buildings.

Our ideal candidate has solid technical skills, as well as excellent interpersonal skills for communicating with clients and ensuring their needs are met in a timely and cost-effective manner.

 

Responsibilities

• Interpret blueprints and building specifications to map layout for pipes, drainage systems, and other plumbing materials
• Install pipes and fixtures, such as sinks and toilets, for water, gas, steam, air, or other liquids
• Install supports for pipes, equipment, and fixtures prior to installation
• Assemble fittings and valves for installation
• Modify length of pipes, fixtures, and other plumbing materials as needed for a building
• Test plumbing systems for leaks and other problems
• Analyse problem and identify appropriate tools and materials for repair
• Follow health and safety standards and comply with building codes
• Write report documenting the problem and summary of actions taken
• Perform inspections of plumbing systems to identify and replace worn parts

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a plumber
• Solid understanding of water distribution and disposal systems in residential buildings
• Working knowledge of heating and ventilation systems as well as appliances
• Ability to handle plumbing tools and equipment (pipe wrenches, pipe cutters, plungers etc.)
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Friendly with a great deal of patience
• Good physical condition and strength with the ability to work in awkward spaces
• Diploma from a trade school or successful completion of apprenticeship
• Valid license to practice profession

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Ongoing training and professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Residential Service Plumber
• Work Environment: Residential settings, including both indoors and outdoors work. Daily travel to different locations.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Plumbing Services Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $65,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Residential Service Plumber Do?

Residential Service Plumbers are skilled professionals who primarily work in residential settings such as homes, apartments, and condominiums.

They are responsible for installing, repairing, and maintaining plumbing systems.

This includes tasks such as unclogging drains, fixing leaks, and installing new pipes or plumbing fixtures such as sinks, toilets, and bathtubs.

Residential Service Plumbers also perform routine maintenance checks on plumbing systems to ensure they are functioning correctly and efficiently.

This could involve checking for leaks, testing pipe connections and plumbing fixtures, or inspecting water and sewage systems.

They are also tasked with diagnosing plumbing problems using specialized tools and equipment, and then determining the best course of action for repairs or replacements.

Residential Service Plumbers often interact directly with homeowners, and therefore, must be able to communicate effectively and provide excellent customer service.

They often provide quotes for services, explain the work that needs to be done, and answer any questions the homeowner may have.

In emergency situations, such as major leaks or sewage backups, Residential Service Plumbers are called upon to quickly troubleshoot and resolve the issue to prevent further damage to the home.

 

Residential Service Plumber Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Residential Service Plumber should possess the skills and qualifications that correspond with the job role, which include:

• Technical plumbing skills and knowledge to install, repair, and maintain residential plumbing systems efficiently and accurately.
• Ability to interpret blueprints, specifications and technical drawings to ensure proper installation and identify potential plumbing issues.
• Problem-solving skills to diagnose issues accurately and devise effective solutions for various plumbing issues.
• Strong physical condition and stamina to perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting heavy equipment and materials, and working in cramped spaces.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills to interact effectively with clients, understand their needs, and provide excellent customer service.
• Attention to detail to ensure that all installations, repairs, and maintenance meet the highest quality standards and comply with all relevant codes and regulations.
• Time-management skills to complete jobs within allocated time frames and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.

 

Residential Service Plumber Experience Requirements

Residential service plumbers typically begin their career path through a plumbing apprenticeship program, offering hands-on training alongside experienced plumbers.

This program can last from 2 to 5 years, and in combination with vocational training or a technical school education, it equips them with foundational knowledge and skills.

After completing their apprenticeship, plumbers can transition into a journeyman status by passing a state licensing exam.

This stage often involves 2 to 3 years of experience, providing more independent work opportunities and further skill development.

Residential service plumbers with more than 5 years of experience are often considered master plumbers.

At this level, plumbers have gained extensive experience in various plumbing systems, troubleshooting, and advanced repairs.

They may also have experience managing other plumbers or leading residential plumbing projects.

Certain employers may seek out plumbers with specific experience in high-end residential service, or expertise in certain areas like green plumbing or water conservation.

Therefore, continuous learning, certification, and adapting to new plumbing technologies can be beneficial for career advancement.

 

Residential Service Plumber Education and Training Requirements

Residential Service Plumbers typically require a high school diploma or equivalent.

The most common path for these professionals starts with technical school training or an apprenticeship.

These programs provide hands-on experience and classroom instruction, teaching important skills including the use of tools, safety practices, local plumbing codes and regulations, and blueprint reading.

After completing an apprenticeship, which typically lasts 4 to 5 years, aspiring plumbers can apply for a journeyman’s license.

Most states require residential service plumbers to be licensed, and licensure usually requires passing an examination that tests knowledge of the trade and local plumbing codes.

It’s also advantageous for Residential Service Plumbers to have strong problem-solving skills, physical strength, and stamina, as well as excellent customer service skills.

Although not required, many plumbers may choose to further their education and skills by pursuing certification in specialized areas such as green plumbing, water supply protection, or plumbing design, demonstrating their commitment to the profession and enhancing their competitiveness in the job market.

 

Residential Service Plumber Salary Expectations

A Residential Service Plumber can expect to earn an average salary of $52,590 (USD) per year.

However, this can vary greatly based on level of experience, certifications, location, and the company they are employed by.

 

Residential Service Plumber Job Description FAQs

What are the necessary qualifications for a Residential Service Plumber?

A Residential Service Plumber should have a high school diploma or equivalent.

Following this, they should have completed an apprenticeship or vocational training.

They must also be licensed to practice in their state, which typically involves passing a written exam.

Some states also require plumbers to have a certain amount of practical experience.

 

What skills does a Residential Service Plumber need?

Residential Service Plumbers should be able to diagnose plumbing issues, provide solutions, and perform repairs.

They need to be familiar with building codes and safety regulations.

They also require physical strength and stamina, as the job often involves lifting heavy materials and working in uncomfortable positions.

Good communication skills are also essential, as they often deal directly with clients.

 

What are the daily duties of a Residential Service Plumber?

A Residential Service Plumber typically starts the day reviewing any scheduled service calls.

They then visit residential homes to diagnose and resolve plumbing issues.

This can include anything from unclogging drains to installing new pipes.

They may also provide estimates for larger jobs or projects.

Additionally, they are responsible for ensuring all work is in compliance with state and local plumbing codes.

 

What qualities make a good Residential Service Plumber?

A good Residential Service Plumber is reliable, punctual, and respectful of clients’ homes.

They need to be detail-oriented to accurately diagnose and fix plumbing issues.

Good problem-solving skills are essential, as every job is unique and may require a different solution.

They should also have a strong knowledge of safety procedures to protect themselves and their clients.

 

Is it difficult to hire Residential Service Plumbers?

As with any specialized trade, finding qualified Residential Service Plumbers can be a challenge.

There is often high demand for skilled plumbers, and it can be competitive to attract and retain the best candidates.

Offering competitive pay, benefits, and opportunities for ongoing training and development can help attract qualified plumbers.

 

Conclusion

And so, we’ve unveiled the true essence of being a residential service plumber.

Surprised?

It’s not just about fixing leaks.

It’s about ensuring the smooth operation of essential household systems and contributing to the comfort and safety of homes.

With our comprehensive residential service plumber job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to jump-start your career.

But why limit yourself?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your stepping stone to creating detail-oriented job postings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every repair or installation is a step towards a safer, more comfortable home.

Let’s build a better living environment. Together.

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