Almost every state requires plumbers to acquire a few years of training in the classroom and the real world before starting a professional career. Oklahoma is no different in this regard.
Training is one of many important considerations. It is very important, but other steps can make the journey much more fulfilling for candidates by making employment easier and opening up the doors for continuing education.
In the following sections, we will explore these requirements and considerations, focusing on the training destinations, licensure and certification requirements, and top programs in the state. Lastly, we round up by highlighting the salary figures for plumbers in Oklahoma to expect based on a few determining criteria.
How to Become a Plumber in Oklahoma
Below are the requirements needed to start a plumbing career in Oklahoma.
Educational Requirements & Other Basic Requirements
Aspiring plumbers in Oklahoma must first meet the basic educational requirement of having a high school diploma or GED. Seniors in high school who are already scheduled to graduate may also start their preparations.
Starting a plumbing career in Oklahoma also requires being at least 18 years old, having a valid driver’s license, and passing a drug screening/criminal background check.
Training Requirements
The most obvious step in becoming a plumber in Oklahoma is to acquire training. Candidates would find it almost impossible to perform their duties without this part.
Luckily, several institutions nationwide provide comprehensive plumbing training for interested candidates. These programs can be academic programs offered by community colleges and vocational schools or apprenticeships offered by trade unions and professional organizations.
Some employers also organize on-the-job training opportunities for individuals with experience in construction and specific plumbing specialties.
Certification & Employment
Although certification is not mandatory for plumbers in Oklahoma, it offers several career benefits that, like all professions, typically prove invaluable.
Once all the steps above have been completed, candidates may officially apply for their license and secure employment.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
The Oklahoma Construction Industries Board is responsible for licensing plumbers in the state. Along with the state license, some cities, such as Oklahoma City, also have their requirements for plumbing contractors.
The state offers three licenses, including the plumbing apprentice license, the plumbing journeyman license, and the plumbing contractor license. The journeyman license is available for those who have completed the steps above, while the contractor license is needed for those looking to take on bigger contracts.
Applying for the journeyman license costs $75 in fees, while applying for the contractor license incurs a $330 fee.
It is also possible to receive a plumbing license in Oklahoma through military service experience or an out-of-state plumbing license.
Top Plumbing Schools in Oklahoma
The following are some notable plumbing training programs in Oklahoma for candidates to consider.
Mid-Del Technology Center
Midwest City, OK Online + Campus
Future plumbers in Oklahoma may enroll in the 900-hour Plumber Apprenticeship program at Mid-Del Technology Center to start their journey.
Tuition
$2,000 - $4,000 per CourseContact
(405) 739-1707
tmurphy@mid-del.net
Oklahoma State University - Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City, OK Online + Campus
Oklahoma State University offers an online program for future plumbers known as the Foundations of Plumbing program. It includes 145 course hours and can be completed in 12 months.
Tuition
$3,779 - $9,564Contact
(405) 947-4421
okc.admissions@okstate.edu
Wes Watkins Technology Center
Wetumpka, OK Online + Campus
Lastly, Wes Watkins Technology Center offers a Facility Maintenance Technician program that candidates may enroll in for introductory plumbing training. They are to choose the plumbing focus.
Tuition
$1,620 - $3,759 per CourseContact
(405) 452-5500
mtomb@wwtech.edu
Explore plumbing schools in Oklahoma by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
In Oklahoma, plumbers typically earn an annual salary of around $54,986 if they fall among the average earners in the area. If they fall among the top 10%, their annual average salary will be closer to $110,533, while their annual average salary may fall closer to $27,353 if they are among the bottom 10%.
Plumber in Oklahoma may increase their annual salary by moving to locations with higher annual average figures for these professionals. For instance, Moore, with an average annual salary of $115,759, is the highest-paying city in the state, followed by Edmond, which has an average annual salary of $86,876.
Other notable destinations within the state are Pauls Valley, with an annual average salary of $77,611; Ada, with an annual average salary of; and Ardmore, with an annual average salary of $77,611.
Factors such as experience, credentials, and specialty area are among the most common factors influencing the average annual salary of plumbers in Oklahoma.