Individuals interested in pursuing a plumbing career in Delaware are expected to be in great physical shape and receive the education needed to carry out plumbing duties. State residents who are to partake in this journey must have a clear picture of what to expect to be fully prepared for the steps and the challenges that may arise along the way.
To help candidates achieve this goal, we have provided a guide below that touches upon all the important requirements and considerations to start a plumbing career in Delaware. Readers will learn the expectations concerning their educational credentials and licensing requirements, among other crucial issues.
How to Become a Plumber in Delaware
Below is a step-by-step breakdown of what it takes to become a plumber in Delaware.
Obtain an Apprentice License
Delaware has four levels of plumbing licenses, the first of which is the apprentice license. Candidates who want to receive practical skills in the field must have an apprentice license.
They can do so by registering with the State of Delaware Department of Labor.
Educational Arrangements
After registering as apprentices, candidates can learn the fundamental principles of the job and acquire hands-on skills. The state expects two forms of training: classroom training and hands-on training.
- Classroom Training—Classroom training is mandatory for aspiring plumbers in Delaware because it lets them acclimate to the profession conveniently without the pressure of an actual work environment.
Several colleges and trade schools offer top-class academic training for aspiring plumbers in Delaware, and we will showcase some of the best in an upcoming section.
- Hands-On Training—Delaware also mandates hands-on training for prospective plumbers. This program must last four years and be administered by accredited organizations and professional organizations that are atypically reputable for having the best apprenticeship programs.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
As mentioned earlier, a plumber in Delaware needs to acquire an apprentice license to start their lessons. After they’re done, they will need a journeyman license.
Acquiring this involves obtaining 4 years of hands-on training and 144 hours of classroom education. To be officially licensed, they must pass a licensing examination.
Candidates with a journeyman license will qualify for a formaster’ster license after a few years of experience. To be considered master plumbers in Delaware, they must also send an application for the master plumber exam, pass the exam, and pay the master plumber licensing fee.
Lastly, the state has a special category for plumbing contractors who work on large contracts and possibly hire journeyman plumbers to work under them. The Delaware Division of Revenue oversees this category.
Top Plumbing Schools in Delaware
The entries below are among the best schools for prospective plumbers in Delaware.
New Castle Vo Tech Adult Education
Newark, DE Campus + Online
New Castle Vo Tech Adult Education Division offers a top-class Plumbing Apprenticeship program. Accepted applicants can choose their preferred training arrangement and participate in evening classes.
Tuition
$575 per YearContact
(302) 654-5392
POLYTECH Adult Education
Dover, DE Campus Only
POLYTECH Adult Education offers a four-year apprenticeship program with approximately 634 hours of instruction. Students will learn foundational concepts in plumbing, welding fundamentals, safety, plumbing drawings, and water distribution systems, among other subjects.
Tuition
$1,445 per ProgramContact
(302) 697-4545
courtney.brown@polytech.k12.de.us
Sussex Tech Adult Education Division
Georgetown, DE Campus Only
Sussex Tech Adult Education Division is notable for its plumbing training program, which enjoys a strong connection with the industry and offers professional certification opportunities.
Tuition
Call for DetailsContact
(302) 856-9035
adultedoffice@sussexvt.k12.de.us
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Salary & Career Outlook
Plumbers in Delaware were surveyed to understand the state’s annual average salary numbers further based on several possible categories. The data showed that the majority are the median earners, earning an annual average salary of $61,646.
It was also revealed that the lowest-paid are well compensated, with an annual average salary of $36,109. Still, the highest earners are those in the top 10%, making an annual average salary of $105,241. Professionals have increased their annual average salary as plumbers in Delaware by working on their experience level, location, and specialty, among other factors.
Favorable locations in the state for plumbers include Bear, with an annual average salary of $131,485; New Castle, with an annual average salary of $84,075; and Middletown, with an annual average salary of $66,645.
Looking ahead, projected instructions from the BL indicate sustained employment growth for plumbers in Delaware in the next few years.