So you want to be a Plumber?
Some common questions...
What does a Plumber actually do?
A Plumber is someone that installs and repairs water supply systems as well as waste disposal, drainage and drinking water. Plumbers also install plumbing fixtures including sinks, toilets, dishwashers, bath tubs, roof plumbing, gas fittings, drainage and heating systems, etc. Recently, plumbers have also moved into the installation of water tanks and water saving devices.
Plumbers can specialise in each particular area or a combination. Plumbers not only provide actual services, but can also give advice on water and energy efficiency.
Overall, a Plumber is an integral player in the management of the community's water supply across the domestic and commercial sector.
What are some of the skills I would learn at BIGA?
At BIGA, we will equip you with the practical and theoretical skills and knowledge necessary to be a successful Plumber. Some of the skills you will learn include:
- Fitting and repairing hot and cold water tanks, taps, valves and pipe work
- Installing and repairing home appliances including showers, dishwashers etc
- Fixing and clearing guttering and drainage
- Fitting and repairing central heating and other gas systems
- Working on plumbing systems in domestic, industrial and/or commercial premises
- Fundamental skills and theory as the building blocks to specialise in a chosen area i.e., gas fitting and drainage
What does a Plumbing apprenticeship involve?
At BIGA, we equip you with on-the-job training, conducted by experienced tradespeople on site and within the classroom. This ensures you develop the technical and practical skills to be effective in your chosen trade. Number of years expected to complete your apprenticeship: 3 - 4 yrs.
What do I need to be a good Plumber?
- A good head for heights
- Physically fit and healthy to have the stamina to complete physical hard work
- Hands on skills preparation to get hands dirty
- Enjoy working indoor and outdoor
- Ability to work in cramped conditions
- Ability to work individually or as part of a team
What working conditions can I expect?
- Standard full-time 5 day working week, averaging 40 hours, with some overtime expected on weekends in order to complete certain projects
- Salary ranges between $35,000 - $70,000 plus, more for those owning their own business
- Jobs can include working for a plumbing or mechanical engineering services company, the public sector or a building contractor.
- Some plumbers move into design, consultancy, teaching, etc
- Promotion depends on the size of the company
- Mainly indoors
- Bending and lifting is required and often physically demanding
Benefits of BIGA:
- Learn more about the apprenticeship and the job opportunities involved before making your decision on which apprenticeship to apply for
- BIGA takes the time to get to know you, finding out your skill levels, abilities and particularly your interests to determine the best apprenticeship suited to you
- A variety in apprenticeship offerings, means you are free to choose the one that appeals to you the most
- Gain experience in a variety of different learning situations by working with a variety of qualified and licensed trades people
- Our staff can offer guidance and support within the security of a large and well established organisation with significant experience in industry and apprenticeships