Top 12 Journeyman Plumber Skills to Put on Your Resume

In today's competitive job market, journeyman plumbers must distinguish themselves by showcasing a diverse set of skills on their resumes. Highlighting the top skills not only demonstrates your proficiency and versatility in the field but also positions you as a prime candidate for potential employers, setting the stage for career advancement and opportunities.

Journeyman Plumber Skills

1. PEX Systems
2. Welding
3. Blueprint Reading
4. Drainage Systems
5. Soldering
6. Pipefitting
7. Hydro Jetting
8. Backflow Testing
9. Video Inspection
10. Tankless Water Heaters
11. Gas Lines
12. Water Purification

1. PEX Systems

PEX systems refer to plumbing systems that use PEX piping (cross-linked polyethylene) known for its flexibility, durability, and resistance to scale and chlorine, making installation quicker and easier compared to traditional copper or PVC piping. Ideal for supply lines in both residential and commercial plumbing.

Why It's Important

PEX systems are important for a Journeyman Plumber because they offer a flexible, durable, and cost-efficient option for plumbing installations and repairs, reducing labor time and material costs while providing reliable water supply and heating solutions.

How to Improve PEX Systems Skills

Improving PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) plumbing systems involves ensuring durability, efficiency, and compliance with best practices. Here are concise tips for a Journeyman Plumber:

1. Use High-Quality Fittings: Opt for brass or poly-alloy fittings for better longevity and leak prevention. Uponor provides high-quality options.

2. Proper Insulation: Protect PEX from UV light and physical damage by using foam insulation or installing it within protective conduits. Armacell offers suitable insulation products.

3. Expansion and Contraction: Allow for the natural expansion and contraction of PEX by using expansion loops or bends. This avoids stress at connections.

4. Stabilize Piping: Secure PEX with appropriate support brackets every 32 to 48 inches to prevent sagging and vibration. HoldRite has a range of supports and brackets.

5. Correct Tools: Use the manufacturer-recommended expansion tool or crimping tool for making connections to ensure a perfect seal. Milwaukee Tool offers reliable options.

6. Flush the System: Before use, thoroughly flush the system to remove any debris or contaminants that may have entered during installation.

7. Keep Up with Codes: Stay informed about the latest plumbing codes and manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure compliance and optimal system performance. International Code Council provides up-to-date codes.

8. Avoid Chemical Exposure: Ensure that PEX is not exposed to harmful chemicals, both during storage and installation, to prevent damage.

By adhering to these practices, you can enhance the performance and reliability of PEX systems.

How to Display PEX Systems Skills on Your Resume

2. Welding

Welding is a fabrication process that joins materials, typically metals or thermoplastics, by using high heat to melt the parts together and allowing them to cool, causing fusion. For a Journeyman Plumber, it involves techniques to securely join metal pipes, fixtures, and other plumbing components necessary for water, gas, or other fluid systems.

Why It's Important

Welding is crucial for a Journeyman Plumber as it enables the secure joining and repair of metal pipes and fixtures, ensuring water-tight and gas-tight seals essential for reliable plumbing systems.

How to Improve Welding Skills

Improving welding skills, especially for a Journeyman Plumber, involves practice, understanding the materials, and staying updated on best practices. Here are concise tips and resources:

1. Practice Regularly: Consistent practice helps refine your technique and improve consistency. Work on different metals and positions.

2. Get the Right Equipment: Ensure you have the right welding machine and accessories for the type of welding you do. Miller Electric offers a variety of welding equipment suitable for different applications.

3. Understand the Materials: Knowing the properties of the metals you're joining improves your welding. The American Welding Society (AWS) provides resources on different metals and techniques.

4. Take Safety Seriously: Proper safety gear and practices are crucial. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has guidelines on welding safety.

5. Seek Feedback: Have an experienced welder review your work and provide feedback. Constructive criticism can help you identify areas for improvement.

6. Continuing Education: Attend workshops, courses, or webinars to learn new techniques and technologies in welding. The Lincoln Electric Welding School offers various programs for skill improvement.

7. Join a Professional Organization: Becoming a member of organizations like the American Welding Society (AWS) can provide access to resources, networking opportunities, and professional development.

By focusing on these areas, a Journeyman Plumber can enhance their welding skills, contributing to higher quality work and expanded job opportunities.

How to Display Welding Skills on Your Resume

3. Blueprint Reading

Blueprint reading for a Journeyman Plumber involves interpreting and understanding technical diagrams and plans that outline the design, layout, and specifications of plumbing systems. This skill is essential for accurately installing, repairing, and maintaining plumbing according to the project's architectural and engineering requirements.

Why It's Important

Blueprint reading is crucial for a Journeyman Plumber as it enables accurate interpretation of construction plans to ensure proper installation, repair, and maintenance of plumbing systems in alignment with building codes and specifications.

How to Improve Blueprint Reading Skills

Improving blueprint reading as a Journeyman Plumber involves honing your ability to interpret and understand detailed technical drawings related to plumbing systems. Here's a concise guide to get you started:

1. Familiarize Yourself with Basic Symbols and Terms: Begin by learning the standard symbols and terms used in plumbing blueprints. This foundational knowledge will help you quickly identify the types of fixtures, pipes, and fittings depicted in the drawings.

2. Understand Scales and Dimensions: Practice reading scales and translating dimensions from blueprints to the physical spaces you're working in. This skill is crucial for accurately planning layouts and estimating materials.

3. Study Different Types of Drawings: Explore architectural, structural, and mechanical drawings to understand how plumbing systems integrate with other building systems. Recognizing the context within which plumbing systems operate can improve your comprehension of blueprints.

4. Take a Course: Consider enrolling in a course focused on blueprint reading for plumbers. Many trade schools and community colleges offer relevant courses.

5. Use Online Resources: Leverage online tutorials, forums, and videos specifically designed for plumbers looking to improve their blueprint reading skills. Websites like Plumbing Help Today and The Plumber's Toolbox often publish helpful guides and tips.

6. Practice Regularly: Like any skill, proficiency in blueprint reading comes with practice. Regularly review different sets of blueprints, even those not directly related to your current projects, to challenge your understanding and improve your speed and accuracy.

By focusing on these strategies and utilizing available resources, you can significantly improve your blueprint reading skills as a Journeyman Plumber.

How to Display Blueprint Reading Skills on Your Resume

4. Drainage Systems

A drainage system refers to the network of pipes and fixtures designed to remove wastewater and stormwater from a building or area, ensuring proper sanitation and preventing flooding. For a journeyman plumber, it involves installing, maintaining, and repairing these systems to ensure efficient and safe removal of water.

Why It's Important

Drainage systems are crucial for efficiently removing waste water and preventing waterborne diseases, ensuring a safe and healthy environment. They also protect structural integrity by preventing water buildup that can cause damage.

How to Improve Drainage Systems Skills

Improving drainage systems efficiently involves several key steps suitable for a Journeyman Plumber. Here’s a concise guide:

1. Assess and Clean: Begin by inspecting and cleaning existing pipes and drainage areas. Remove debris to ensure free flow. Hydro jetting can be an effective method for cleaning out clogs and buildup.

2. Upgrade Pipes: Replace old or damaged pipes with high-quality, larger-diameter options for better flow. Consider PVC or ABS pipes for durability and ease of maintenance.

3. Install Backwater Valves: To prevent sewage backup, install backwater valves on the main line. This is especially crucial in areas prone to heavy rain or flooding.

4. Proper Sloping: Ensure all drainage pipes have appropriate slope (at least 1/4 inch per foot) to aid gravity in moving water away efficiently.

5. Add More Drains: In areas of water collection, consider installing additional drains or French drains for better soil water management.

6. Regular Maintenance: Schedule regular inspections and maintenance to keep systems running smoothly. This involves checking for leaks, ensuring vents are clear, and monitoring flow rates.

7. Educate Clients: Advise homeowners on proper usage and maintenance, like avoiding pouring grease down drains and installing strainers to catch debris.

By following these steps, a Journeyman Plumber can significantly improve drainage systems, ensuring they are efficient, durable, and less prone to issues.

How to Display Drainage Systems Skills on Your Resume

5. Soldering

Soldering, in the context of plumbing, is a process used to join metal pipes and fittings together by melting a filler metal (solder) into the joint, which cools to form a secure, watertight seal.

Why It's Important

Soldering is critical for a Journeyman Plumber as it securely joins metal pipes and fittings, ensuring leak-proof and durable water and gas supply systems.

How to Improve Soldering Skills

Improving soldering skills, especially for a Journeyman Plumber, involves practice and understanding of techniques and materials. Here are concise tips:

1. Clean Surfaces: Ensure all surfaces to be soldered are clean and free of oxidation or debris. Use a wire brush or sandpaper for cleaning.

2. Proper Fitting: Ensure a snug fit between the pipe and the fitting. It shouldn't be too tight or too loose.

3. Flux Application: Apply flux evenly on both the pipe and the fitting. Flux prevents oxidation and helps the solder flow smoothly.

4. Heat Evenly: Use a torch to heat the fitting evenly, not just the soldering point. This helps in the even distribution of solder.

5. Apply Solder: Touch the solder to the joint, not the flame, letting the heat of the pipe melt the solder. It should flow into the joint by capillary action.

6. Cooling: Let the joint cool naturally. Avoid using water or wet rags to speed up the cooling process as it may cause joint failure.

7. Practice: Like any skill, practice is crucial. Experiment with different techniques and materials.

8. Safety: Always wear proper safety equipment like gloves and eye protection. Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes.

For more detailed guidance:

• Copper Development Association Inc. provides a comprehensive soldering procedure.
• PlumbingSupply.com® offers tips on soldering copper pipe effectively.

Remember, patience and attention to detail are key to mastering soldering.

How to Display Soldering Skills on Your Resume

6. Pipefitting

Pipefitting, in the context of a Journeyman Plumber, involves the installation, assembly, fabrication, maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting of piping systems that convey water, steam, air, or other fluids or gases. This includes measuring, cutting, threading, gluing, or welding pipes according to specifications or plumbing codes.

Why It's Important

Pipefitting is crucial for a Journeyman Plumber as it involves the precise installation, repair, and maintenance of piping systems that ensure the efficient and safe distribution of water, gas, and waste within residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. This skill is essential for the functionality and integrity of plumbing systems.

How to Improve Pipefitting Skills

Improving your skills in pipefitting as a Journeyman Plumber involves continuous learning and practice. Here are concise steps to enhance your expertise:

1. Stay Updated: Keep abreast with the latest pipefitting techniques and materials in the industry by reading trade publications and online resources.
2. Practice Precision: Improve your measurement and cutting accuracy. Resources like This Old House offer practical tips on working with different types of pipes.
3. Learn from Experts: Attend workshops or seminars led by seasoned professionals. Websites like Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) offer training opportunities.
4. Get Certified: Consider obtaining certifications in specialized areas of pipefitting through organizations like the American Welding Society (AWS) for welding skills enhancement.
5. Use Advanced Tools: Familiarize yourself with the latest pipefitting tools and technology. Insightful reviews and recommendations can be found on ToolGuyd.
6. Safety First: Always update your knowledge on safety practices by following guidelines from Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

Remember, excellence in pipefitting comes from a blend of knowledge, skill, and the right attitude towards learning and safety.

How to Display Pipefitting Skills on Your Resume

7. Hydro Jetting

Hydro jetting is a plumbing technique that uses high-pressure water streams to clear and clean clogged or blocked pipes and drains, effectively removing buildup, debris, and blockages.

Why It's Important

Hydro jetting is important for a Journeyman Plumber because it effectively clears and cleans blockages and buildup in pipes using high-pressure water, ensuring efficient drainage and preventing future plumbing issues.

How to Improve Hydro Jetting Skills

To enhance hydro jetting efficiency and safety, a journeyman plumber can:

1. Understand and Assess the Pipe Conditions: Before starting, thoroughly assess the pipe material, condition, and layout. Knowing what you're dealing with helps choose the correct nozzle and pressure setting. Pipe Assessment Guide.

2. Select the Right Nozzle and Pressure: Use a nozzle that matches the job (e.g., grease removal, descaling) and adjust pressure according to pipe size and material to avoid damage. Nozzle Selection Chart.

3. Regular Maintenance of Equipment: Keep the hydro jetting machine and nozzles clean and in good repair. This improves performance and extends equipment life. Maintenance Tips.

4. Safety Gear: Always wear protective gear, including gloves, goggles, and ear protection, to prevent injuries from high-pressure water or debris. Safety Equipment.

5. Stay Updated: Engage in continuous learning about new hydro jetting technologies and techniques through workshops, online courses, and reading industry publications. Plumbing Continuing Education.

By focusing on these aspects, you can improve your hydro jetting services, ensuring safer, more effective, and efficient operations.

How to Display Hydro Jetting Skills on Your Resume

8. Backflow Testing

Backflow testing is a procedure performed by a certified plumber to ensure that a building's water supply system prevents contaminated water from flowing back into the clean water supply, safeguarding against health hazards.

Why It's Important

Backflow testing is crucial to ensure that drinking water remains uncontaminated by preventing the reverse flow of dirty water or harmful substances into the clean water supply. This protects public health and complies with safety regulations.

How to Improve Backflow Testing Skills

Improving backflow testing involves enhancing skills, staying updated with regulations, and using the right tools. A journeyman plumber can follow these concise steps:

1. Continuing Education: Stay updated with the latest backflow prevention practices and regulations through continuing education. Online courses and webinars offered by professional organizations such as the American Water Works Association (AWWA) are excellent resources.

2. Utilize Advanced Tools: Invest in high-quality, accurate testing equipment. Regular calibration of your tools ensures precise measurements. Information on advanced tools can be found at Backflow Prevention Products.

3. Adhere to Regulations: Familiarize yourself with both local and national backflow prevention regulations. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides resources and guidelines on water regulations.

4. Practice Regularly: Regular practice enhances skill and familiarity with the testing process. Offer to assist or shadow experienced testers for additional insights.

5. Join Professional Forums: Participate in forums and groups related to plumbing and backflow testing. The Plumbing Zone is an engaging community for professional plumbers to share experiences and advice.

6. Get Certified: If not already, obtain certification from a recognized body such as the ABPA (American Backflow Prevention Association) or similar. Certification often requires passing a practical and written exam, reinforcing your knowledge and skills.

7. Follow Safety Protocols: Always adhere to safety guidelines to protect yourself and the water supply. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides safety standards for various work environments, including plumbing.

Improving in backflow testing is a continuous process of learning, practice, and adapting to new technologies and regulations.

How to Display Backflow Testing Skills on Your Resume

9. Video Inspection

Video inspection, in the context of a journeyman plumber, is a technique using a small, waterproof camera attached to a flexible rod that is inserted into pipes and drains. This method allows for the interior examination of plumbing systems to identify blockages, damage, or other issues without the need for invasive excavation or dismantling.

Why It's Important

Video inspection is crucial for a Journeyman Plumber as it allows for accurate, non-invasive examination of pipes and sewer lines, identifying blockages, cracks, and other issues without the need for extensive excavation. This technology saves time, reduces labor costs, and minimizes disruption, enabling precise and efficient diagnostics and repairs.

How to Improve Video Inspection Skills

Improving video inspection for a Journeyman Plumber involves enhancing equipment quality, software capabilities, and procedural knowledge. Here's a concise guide:

1. Upgrade Equipment: Invest in high-resolution cameras with adjustable lighting to better navigate and inspect pipes. Consider features like self-leveling and zoom capabilities for detailed inspection. RIDGID offers a range of professional plumbing inspection cameras.

2. Software Enhancement: Utilize advanced inspection software that allows for better data analysis, recording, and sharing. Software like WinCan can help in mapping out plumbing systems and identifying issues more accurately.

3. Continuous Learning: Keep abreast of the latest techniques and technologies through continuous education. Platforms like LinkedIn Learning offer courses on plumbing technologies and inspection methods.

4. Procedural Efficiency: Standardize inspection procedures to ensure thoroughness and efficiency. Create checklists based on common plumbing issues to streamline the inspection process.

5. Collaboration and Feedback: Engage with a community of professionals for shared learning and feedback. Online forums like Plumbing Zone provide a platform for discussing inspection techniques and equipment feedback.

By focusing on these areas, a Journeyman Plumber can significantly improve the effectiveness of video inspections.

How to Display Video Inspection Skills on Your Resume

10. Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand water heaters, directly heat water without using a storage tank, providing hot water only as it is needed, leading to energy efficiency and continuous hot water supply.

Why It's Important

Tankless water heaters are important for a Journeyman Plumber to understand and install because they provide efficient, on-demand hot water, saving space and energy, and potentially reducing utility bills for homeowners.

How to Improve Tankless Water Heaters Skills

Improving tankless water heaters involves enhancing efficiency, longevity, and performance. Here's a concise guide for a Journeyman Plumber:

1. Maintenance Schedule: Regular descaling and flushing prevent mineral buildup, maintaining efficiency.
2. Proper Installation: Ensure optimal placement for reduced heat loss and easier access for maintenance.
3. Upgrade Fixtures: Install low-flow fixtures to reduce demand and increase efficiency.
4. System Sizing: Properly size the unit to match demand, preventing overload and inefficiency.
5. Energy Source Optimization: Choose energy sources wisely; electric models may be more efficient in certain areas.
6. Smart Controls: Incorporate smart technology for remote monitoring and control, optimizing operation times and temperatures.
7. Insulate Piping: Insulate accessible hot water lines to minimize heat loss as recommended by the U.S. Department of Energy.

Each step involves a balance of upfront investment and long-term savings, tailored to specific installation and user needs.

How to Display Tankless Water Heaters Skills on Your Resume

11. Gas Lines

Gas lines are pipes and fittings installed by plumbers to supply natural gas or propane to appliances and heating systems within residential or commercial buildings.

Why It's Important

Gas lines are crucial for a Journeyman Plumber because they enable the safe and efficient distribution of natural gas or propane to appliances and heating systems in residential and commercial buildings, ensuring proper function and safety.

How to Improve Gas Lines Skills

Improving gas lines requires a combination of best practices, safety adherence, and the use of quality materials. Here's a brief guide:

1. Understand Local Codes: Familiarize yourself with local codes and regulations to ensure compliance. International Code Council (ICC) provides resources and codes relevant to plumbing and gas lines.

2. Use Quality Materials: Opt for high-quality pipes and fittings approved for gas lines, such as black steel or corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST). ASTM International offers standards on materials suitable for gas lines.

3. Leak Testing: Always perform a leak test on new installations and repairs using a soap solution or electronic leak detectors. The American Gas Association (AGA) provides guidelines on safe testing practices.

4. Proper Sizing: Ensure gas lines are properly sized to support the demand of all connected appliances. The Gas Piping Technology Committee (GPTC) guides on sizing and capacity.

5. Safe Installation Practices: Follow safe installation practices, avoiding areas where pipes could be subject to damage. Refer to OSHA guidelines for safety standards in construction and plumbing.

6. Regular Maintenance and Inspection: Schedule regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the integrity of gas lines, addressing any issues promptly.

7. Continuing Education: Stay updated with the latest technologies and practices in gas line installation and repair. Organizations like the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) offer continuing education resources.

By adhering to these principles, you can improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of gas line installations and repairs.

How to Display Gas Lines Skills on Your Resume

12. Water Purification

Water purification is the process of removing contaminants, harmful substances, and pathogens from water to make it safe for consumption and use, involving techniques such as filtration, disinfection, and reverse osmosis. For a Journeyman Plumber, it encompasses installing, maintaining, and repairing water treatment systems to ensure water quality meets health and safety standards.

Why It's Important

Water purification is crucial for ensuring safe, clean water free of harmful contaminants, thus protecting public health and enhancing the quality of life. For a Journeyman Plumber, it plays a vital role in installing and maintaining systems that provide access to potable water, essential for daily living and hygiene.

How to Improve Water Purification Skills

Improving water purification involves incorporating advanced filtration techniques, regular maintenance, and optimizing system settings. Here's a concise guide for a Journeyman Plumber:

1. Adopt Multi-Stage Filtration: Implement a system that uses sediment filters, activated carbon, and reverse osmosis membranes for comprehensive purification (EPA guide on Filtration).

2. Regular Maintenance: Schedule routine check-ups to replace filters, clean system components, and inspect for leaks to ensure optimal performance (CDC Maintenance Tips).

3. System Optimization: Adjust system settings based on water source quality and consumption needs to improve efficiency and longevity (WHO Water Treatment and Pathogen Control).

4. Incorporate Smart Technology: Use smart sensors and IoT devices for real-time monitoring and management of water quality parameters (IWA Digital Water).

5. Stay Informed on Latest Technologies: Continuously explore emerging technologies in water purification, such as UV purification and nano-filtration, to enhance system capabilities.

By focusing on these areas, you can significantly improve water purification systems, ensuring safer and cleaner water.

How to Display Water Purification Skills on Your Resume