Top 12 Plumber Skills to Put on Your Resume

In the competitive field of plumbing, standing out to potential employers is paramount, and one way to achieve this is by showcasing a comprehensive set of skills on your resume. Highlighting the top plumber skills not only demonstrates your proficiency and adaptability in the trade but also positions you as a strong candidate who can meet the diverse needs of any plumbing job.

Plumber Skills

1. PEX Systems
2. Welding
3. Blueprint Reading
4. Hydro Jetting
5. Video Inspection
6. Trenchless Technology
7. Backflow Testing
8. Solar Water Heating
9. CAD Software
10. Pipe Threading
11. Leak Detection
12. Soldering

1. PEX Systems

PEX systems refer to plumbing solutions using cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) piping, known for its flexibility, durability, and ease of installation. They are used for water supply lines in both residential and commercial buildings.

Why It's Important

PEX systems are important for plumbers because they offer a flexible, durable, and cost-effective alternative to traditional copper piping, simplifying installation and reducing the risk of leaks and corrosion over time.

How to Improve PEX Systems Skills

Improving PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) systems involves ensuring quality installation and maintenance. Here are key steps for a plumber:

1. Use High-Quality Fittings and Tubing: Opt for reputable brands to avoid leaks and ensure longevity. PEX Universe is a good resource for quality supplies.

2. Proper Installation: Follow manufacturer guidelines for bending radii, expansion, and contraction. Avoid over-tightening fittings. Uponor offers comprehensive installation guides.

3. Insulation: To prevent freezing and energy loss, insulate PEX tubing properly, especially in cold climates. This Old House provides practical insulation tips.

4. Water Quality: Ensure the water pH is within a safe range (6.5 to 8.5) for PEX to avoid damage. Use water treatment if necessary. EPA Guidelines can help determine water quality standards.

5. Regular Inspections: Check for signs of wear, improper pressure, or damage annually. Early detection can prevent major issues.

By focusing on quality materials, correct installation practices, and regular maintenance, a plumber can significantly improve the performance and lifespan of PEX systems.

How to Display PEX Systems Skills on Your Resume

2. Welding

Welding is a process used by plumbers to join metal parts together by melting the surfaces with heat and applying a filler material to form a strong, leak-proof connection, essential for constructing and repairing piping systems.

Why It's Important

Welding is crucial for a plumber as it allows for the durable joining of metal pipes and fittings, ensuring leak-proof and robust plumbing systems essential for water, gas, and waste management.

How to Improve Welding Skills

Improving welding skills, especially for a plumber, involves focusing on precision, safety, and technique enhancement. Here are concise tips with relevant resources:

1. Practice Consistently: Regular practice improves hand stability and technique. Miller Electric offers excellent practice guides.
2. Learn from Professionals: Attend workshops or courses offered by credible institutions. The American Welding Society provides courses and certifications.
3. Understand Material Properties: Different materials require specific welding techniques. Lincoln Electric offers guides on various materials.
4. Use the Right Tools and Equipment: Ensure you have the correct welding tools and safety equipment. Hobart Welders provides insights on selecting the right tools.
5. Stay Updated with Technology: New welding technologies can improve efficiency and quality. Welding Digest keeps you informed on the latest trends and technologies.
6. Prioritize Safety: Always follow safety protocols to prevent accidents. OSHA’s Welding, Cutting, and Brazing guide is an essential resource.

By focusing on these areas, a plumber can significantly improve their welding skills, leading to better job performance and opportunities.

How to Display Welding Skills on Your Resume

3. Blueprint Reading

Blueprint reading for a plumber involves interpreting detailed technical drawings and diagrams of plumbing systems. These blueprints show the layout of pipes, fixtures, and other plumbing elements within a building, helping plumbers understand where installations or repairs are needed.

Why It's Important

Blueprint reading is crucial for plumbers to accurately interpret technical drawings, ensuring they understand the layout of plumbing systems, the location of fixtures, and the specifications for materials and installation. This skill enables precise and efficient work, compliance with building codes, and effective communication with other construction professionals.

How to Improve Blueprint Reading Skills

Improving blueprint reading skills, especially for plumbers, involves understanding symbols, scales, and technical drawings specific to plumbing work. Here's a concise guide:

1. Familiarize with Plumbing Symbols: Learn the standard symbols used in plumbing blueprints. This guide can be a good starting point.

2. Understand Scales: Practice reading scales on blueprints to accurately interpret dimensions and distances. Engineers Edge offers resources on engineering drawing and design that include understanding scales.

3. Study Technical Drawings: Get accustomed to technical drawings specific to plumbing. Autodesk provides tools and tutorials that can help understand the intricacies of technical drawings.

4. Join Workshops or Courses: Look for workshops or online courses focused on blueprint reading for plumbers. Websites like Udemy or Coursera often have relevant courses.

5. Practice Regularly: Practice interpreting different types of blueprints regularly. Try to get hands-on experience with real-world blueprints or practice sheets.

By focusing on these areas and utilizing the linked resources, plumbers can significantly improve their blueprint reading skills, enhancing their efficiency and accuracy in planning and executing plumbing tasks.

How to Display Blueprint Reading Skills on Your Resume

4. Hydro Jetting

Hydro jetting is a plumbing technique used to clean and clear clogged or slow sewage lines by using high-pressure water streams to remove blockages and build-up inside pipes.

Why It's Important

Hydro jetting is important for plumbers because it provides an efficient and effective method to clear severe blockages and build-up in pipes, ensuring optimal flow and preventing potential damage or costly repairs.

How to Improve Hydro Jetting Skills

To improve Hydro Jetting, a plumber can:

1. Use the Right Nozzle Size and Type: Selecting the appropriate nozzle for the job can greatly enhance efficiency. Different clogs and pipe sizes require specific nozzles for optimal cleaning (Nozzle Selection Guide).

2. Adjust Water Pressure: Adjusting the water pressure according to the pipe material and the severity of the clog ensures thorough cleaning without damaging the pipes. Understanding the right pressure settings is crucial (Pressure Guide).

3. Regular Maintenance of Equipment: Regularly servicing the hydro jetting machine and nozzles ensures they operate at peak efficiency. This includes checking for wear and ensuring seals are tight (Maintenance Tips).

4. Pre-Inspection with Camera: Use a plumbing camera to inspect pipes before hydro jetting. This helps identify the nature of the blockage and any potential pipe damage, allowing for a more targeted approach (Camera Inspection Benefits).

5. Safety Measures: Always use protective gear and follow safety protocols to prevent accidents. Understanding and adhering to safety guidelines is key (Safety Protocols).

6. Stay Updated with New Technologies: Continuously educate yourself on the latest advancements in hydro jetting technology and techniques. This can improve efficiency and effectiveness (Industry News).

By focusing on these areas, a plumber can significantly enhance their hydro jetting services.

How to Display Hydro Jetting Skills on Your Resume

5. Video Inspection

Video inspection in plumbing involves using a camera attached to a flexible rod to visually inspect the interior of pipes and sewer lines for blockages, damage, or other issues without the need for invasive excavation.

Why It's Important

Video inspection is crucial for plumbers as it allows for the precise diagnosis of hidden problems within pipes, such as blockages, leaks, or damage, without the need for invasive excavation. This technology saves time, reduces repair costs, and minimizes disruption to property.

How to Improve Video Inspection Skills

Improving video inspection for a plumber involves enhancing equipment quality, embracing advanced software for analysis, and following best practices for accurate and efficient inspections. Here are concise steps to achieve this:

1. Upgrade Equipment: Invest in high-resolution cameras with powerful lighting to capture clear images of pipes and drains. Consider features like adjustable focus and zoom for detailed inspections. RIDGID offers a range of professional inspection cameras suited for plumbing needs.

2. Use Analysis Software: Implement software that can help analyze video feeds in real-time, identifying issues like cracks and blockages quickly. Software like WinCan offers features tailored to pipeline inspection, enhancing the accuracy of your assessments.

3. Opt for Flexible Solutions: Use flexible and adaptable camera snakes that can navigate tight and complex pipe layouts. This ensures a comprehensive inspection without missing potential problem areas. FlexiSnake provides a variety of options for different plumbing needs.

4. Regular Updates and Maintenance: Keep your video inspection equipment updated with the latest firmware and software enhancements. Regular maintenance checks ensure your tools are always in optimal condition, reducing the risk of missing critical issues during inspections.

5. Training and Best Practices: Stay informed about the latest techniques and best practices in video inspection. Continuous learning and professional development, through platforms like Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC), help in leveraging your equipment and software to their fullest potential.

By following these steps and staying abreast of the latest technologies and methodologies in video inspection, plumbers can significantly enhance the quality and efficiency of their services.

How to Display Video Inspection Skills on Your Resume

6. Trenchless Technology

Trenchless technology refers to methods used for installing or repairing underground pipes and utilities without the need for extensive excavation, offering a less disruptive alternative to traditional open trench techniques. For plumbers, it means repairing or replacing plumbing lines with minimal disturbance to the surface above.

Why It's Important

Trenchless technology is crucial for plumbers as it allows for the repair or replacement of underground pipes with minimal excavation, reducing disruption to the surface, saving time and costs, and minimizing environmental impact.

How to Improve Trenchless Technology Skills

To improve Trenchless Technology from a plumber's perspective, focus on the following key areas:

1. Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest advancements and techniques in trenchless technology through reputable sources such as the North American Society for Trenchless Technology (NASTT).

2. Invest in Quality Equipment: Opt for high-quality, durable tools and machinery from trusted manufacturers to ensure efficiency and longevity. Consider leading suppliers like TT Technologies for state-of-the-art equipment.

3. Field Training: Enhance skills through hands-on training sessions and workshops. Companies like Vermeer often offer training on how to effectively use trenchless equipment.

4. Safety Protocols: Adhere to safety standards and best practices to minimize risks. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides guidelines relevant to trenchless projects.

5. Networking and Collaboration: Engage with industry forums and professional networks like LinkedIn to share knowledge, solve challenges, and stay informed about new trenchless methods and technologies.

Focusing on these areas can significantly enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of trenchless technology applications in plumbing.

How to Display Trenchless Technology Skills on Your Resume

7. Backflow Testing

Backflow testing is a process performed by plumbers to check a plumbing system's backflow prevention devices, ensuring they function correctly to prevent contaminated water from reversing flow and entering the clean water supply.

Why It's Important

Backflow testing is crucial to ensure that drinking water remains safe by preventing contaminated water from reversing flow and entering the clean water supply. It verifies the proper functioning of backflow prevention devices, safeguarding public health and complying with regulatory standards.

How to Improve Backflow Testing Skills

Improving backflow testing, an essential task for plumbers to ensure the safety of drinking water, involves staying updated with industry standards, using accurate and calibrated equipment, and employing best practices for thorough assessments. Here’s a concise guide:

1. Stay Updated: Regularly review updates from authoritative sources like the American Water Works Association (AWWA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to stay informed on the latest backflow prevention techniques and regulations.

2. Use Proper Equipment: Ensure your backflow testing kit is calibrated annually or as required by your jurisdiction. Companies like Mid-West Instrument provide equipment and calibration services.

3. Certification: Obtain or renew your backflow prevention assembly tester certification through recognized programs offered by organizations such as the American Backflow Prevention Association (ABPA) to ensure you're qualified to perform tests.

4. Best Practices: Follow best practices for backflow testing, which include checking for leaks, testing in a sequence that prioritizes safety and accuracy, and ensuring all valves are properly operated during the test. The University of Southern California’s Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research is a valuable resource for best practices and research.

5. Record Keeping: Maintain accurate and detailed records of tests, repairs, and replacements. Utilize software solutions designed for plumbers to streamline documentation and ensure compliance with local regulations.

By embracing these strategies, plumbers can enhance the quality of their backflow testing services, contributing to the safeguarding of public health and water systems.

How to Display Backflow Testing Skills on Your Resume

8. Solar Water Heating

Solar water heating is a system that uses solar panels to capture sunlight and convert it into heat, which is then transferred to water in a storage tank, providing a cost-effective and eco-friendly method for heating water for domestic or commercial use. As a plumber, you would install and maintain these systems, ensuring efficient water heating through solar energy.

Why It's Important

Solar water heating is important because it offers an eco-friendly and cost-effective solution for providing hot water, reducing reliance on conventional energy sources and lowering energy bills, which is essential for plumbers to install and maintain sustainable and efficient water heating systems for their clients.

How to Improve Solar Water Heating Skills

To enhance the efficiency and performance of Solar Water Heating systems, a plumber can undertake the following strategies:

• Optimize Orientation and Tilt: Position the solar collectors to face true south (in the Northern Hemisphere) and adjust their angle to match the local latitude for maximum sunlight exposure. Energy.gov provides guidelines on installation.

• Use Efficient Collectors and Materials: Install high-efficiency solar collectors and durable, insulated piping to reduce heat loss. The Solar Rating & Certification Corporation (SRCC) offers ratings to help select the best products.

• Regular Maintenance: Conduct regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the system is free from leaks, the collectors are clean, and the antifreeze solution (if used) is in good condition. SEIA has maintenance tips.

• System Sizing: Properly size the system based on the household's hot water needs to ensure it's neither underperforming nor wastefully oversized. Energy Saver provides sizing information.

• Insulate Hot Water Storage Tanks and Pipes: Use high-quality insulation around storage tanks and pipes to minimize heat loss, especially in colder climates. Guidance on insulation types and techniques is available at Energy.gov.

• Integrate with Existing Systems: For optimal performance, especially in colder regions, integrate solar water heating with existing water heating systems for backup. This approach ensures hot water availability even during low sunlight periods.

By focusing on these areas, plumbers can significantly improve the efficiency, reliability, and user satisfaction of Solar Water Heating systems.

How to Display Solar Water Heating Skills on Your Resume

9. CAD Software

CAD software, short for Computer-Aided Design software, is a tool used by plumbers to create precise drawings and models of plumbing systems, allowing for accurate planning, design, and modification of plumbing layouts before physical installation.

Why It's Important

CAD software allows a plumber to design, visualize, and simulate plumbing systems with precision and efficiency, facilitating accurate installations, modifications, and troubleshooting, thus saving time and reducing errors.

How to Improve CAD Software Skills

Improving CAD software for plumbers involves enhancing features that streamline the design and modification of plumbing systems, ensuring ease of use, accuracy, and integration with industry standards. Here are concise ways to improve CAD software for plumbers:

1. Integrate Comprehensive Plumbing Libraries: Expand the software's database to include a wide range of plumbing components and fixtures, enabling plumbers to easily drag and drop items into their designs. Autodesk offers libraries that can be enhanced for specific plumbing needs.

2. Enhance User Interface (UI): Simplify the UI to make it more intuitive for plumbers who may not be CAD experts. Tools like SketchUp have user-friendly interfaces that can inspire improvements.

3. Improve Collaboration Tools: Incorporate features that enable real-time collaboration among team members, allowing plumbers to work together efficiently from different locations. Revit is known for its collaboration features.

4. Offer Specialized Plumbing Design Tools: Develop tools tailored for plumbing design, such as automatic pipe routing, clash detection, and water pressure simulation. This can significantly speed up the design process.

5. Ensure Mobile Compatibility: Make the software accessible on mobile devices, enabling plumbers to view and modify designs on-site. AutoCAD mobile app exemplifies mobile CAD solutions.

6. Facilitate Integration with Building Information Modeling (BIM): Enable seamless integration with BIM software to allow for a more comprehensive approach to building design, facilitating better coordination with other professionals. Revit is a leader in BIM integration.

7. Provide Robust Training Resources: Offer easily accessible, in-depth training materials and tutorials to help plumbers quickly learn how to use the software effectively. LinkedIn Learning offers various CAD courses that can serve as a model for creating educational content.

By focusing on these areas, CAD software developers can significantly enhance the utility and efficiency of their products for plumbing professionals.

How to Display CAD Software Skills on Your Resume

10. Pipe Threading

Pipe threading is the process of creating spiral grooves on the end of a pipe to allow for secure connection with fittings or other pipes, ensuring a leak-proof seal. It is a common task performed by plumbers to assemble and extend piping systems.

Why It's Important

Pipe threading is crucial for plumbers because it allows for the secure connection and sealing of different pipe segments, facilitating a leak-free piping system for water, gas, or waste transportation.

How to Improve Pipe Threading Skills

Improving pipe threading, a crucial skill for plumbers, involves practice, using the right tools, and following best practices. Here’s a concise guide:

1. Choose the Right Tools: Select a high-quality pipe threader tool and appropriate dies for the pipe material you're working with (steel, PVC, etc.). RIDGID offers a wide range of options.

2. Proper Setup: Secure the pipe firmly in a vise to prevent movement. Ensure the dies are clean and correctly aligned.

3. Apply Cutting Oil: Use cutting oil liberally to reduce friction and heat, prolonging die life. Oatey has products specifically for this purpose.

4. Thread Consistently: Apply steady, even pressure as you turn the die around the pipe. Begin slowly to ensure the threads start correctly, then proceed with consistent turns.

5. Check Thread Quality: After threading, inspect the threads for evenness and quality. Remove any burrs with a deburring tool.

6. Clean and Maintain Tools: After use, clean your tools and dies, keeping them lubricated and stored properly to prevent rust.

For an in-depth guide and tips, refer to professional resources like the Plumbing & Mechanical website for articles and tutorials on pipe threading and other plumbing techniques.

How to Display Pipe Threading Skills on Your Resume

11. Leak Detection

Leak detection is the process used by plumbers to identify and locate leaks within a plumbing system, using various methods and technologies, to prevent water damage and conserve water.

Why It's Important

Leak detection is crucial for a plumber to prevent water damage, conserve water, avoid high utility bills, and maintain the integrity of plumbing systems and structures.

How to Improve Leak Detection Skills

Improving leak detection involves a combination of using advanced tools, honing your skills, and adopting best practices. Here are concise tips:

1. Utilize Advanced Tools: Invest in electronic leak detection equipment, such as acoustic sensors and infrared cameras, to accurately locate leaks without invasive methods. RIDGID and FLIR offer a range of professional tools.

2. Regular Training: Stay updated with the latest techniques and tools by attending workshops or online courses. Websites like Udemy and Coursera often have relevant courses.

3. Use Non-Invasive Methods: Before resorting to cutting into walls or digging, use methods like the pressure test, dye test, or listening devices. This minimizes damage and cost.

4. Perform Routine Maintenance Checks: Regularly inspect pipes, faucets, and water-using appliances for signs of wear and tear. Early detection can prevent major leaks.

5. Adopt Smart Water Technology: Recommend or install smart water monitors for clients. These devices can detect leaks and abnormal water usage in real-time. Phyn and Flo by Moen are leading products in this category.

By integrating these strategies, you can significantly improve your efficiency and effectiveness in detecting leaks.

How to Display Leak Detection Skills on Your Resume

12. Soldering

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

Why It's Important

Soldering is vital for plumbers as it creates strong, watertight seals on copper pipe joints, ensuring durable and leak-free plumbing systems.

How to Improve Soldering Skills

Improving soldering skills, particularly for plumbers, involves practice, understanding materials, and using the right techniques. Here's a concise guide:

1. Understand Your Materials: Know the difference between lead and lead-free solder, and when to use flux. Choosing the Right Solder can make a difference.

2. Proper Equipment: Use a soldering iron or torch appropriate for plumbing applications. A well-maintained tool ensures better heat control and joint quality. Selecting Soldering Tools offers insights.

3. Clean Thoroughly: Ensure pipes and fittings are clean and dry before soldering. A wire brush and sandpaper can be used for cleaning. This Cleaning Guide from the Copper Development Association provides detailed instructions.

4. Apply Flux Correctly: Flux prevents oxidation and helps the solder flow smoothly. Apply it inside the fitting and on the pipe end, but avoid excess. This Flux Application Tutorial explains the process.

5. Heat Evenly: Heat both the pipe and the fitting evenly, applying heat more on the heavier piece. When the flux sizzles, touch the solder to the joint. If it melts, apply around the joint. The American Welding Society offers a Basic Guide to Soldering that covers heating techniques.

6. Practice: Like any skill, practice improves performance. Start with small projects or practice joints before attempting critical repairs.

7. Safety: Always work in a well-ventilated area, wear safety glasses, and protect your skin from burns. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides Safety Guidelines for soldering tasks.

By following these steps and regularly honing your skills, you'll see improvement in your soldering projects.

How to Display Soldering Skills on Your Resume