Plumber Mechanic / Sewer Mechanic

As per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters is projected at $67,100 in 2026, up from $61,550 in May 2023 due to 2.3% annual wage growth. The hourly median rate is $32.26, with the lowest 10% earning $41,500 and the highest 10% earning $106,900. Entry-level positions start at $46,000 annually.

As per the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, H-2B visas for temporary plumber jobs have a FY2026 cap of 68,333, split evenly between October-March and April-September halves. Employers must file Form I-129 with Labor Condition Application proving no qualified US workers, costing $460 filing fee. Visas are valid up to 9 months, extendable to 3 years maximum.

As per the U.S. Department of Labor, plumber apprenticeships require a high school diploma or GED and being at least 18 years old, with no prior experience needed for entry-level. Programs last 4 years, including 8,000 hours of on-the-job training at $18-$25/hour starting wage and 576 hours of classroom instruction. Completion grants journeyman status.

As per the U.S. Department of Labor, required documents include a high school diploma or GED, Social Security card, valid driver's license, birth certificate proving age 18+, and proof of legal work authorization. Apprenticeship applications also need a resume listing any shop or math courses and may require a drug test result. Submit via Apprenticeship.gov sponsor search.