Plumbing Technician

PURPOSE
This credential documents the essential competencies required for entry-level plumbers. It covers installing, maintaining, and repairing many different types of pipe systems. The purpose of this program is to prepare students to perform entry-level plumbing maintenance and repair tasks.

AUDIENCE
This credential is appropriate for entry level plumbers seeking positions in residential and commercial construction, specialty trades, repair and maintenance, building maintenance and other similar tasks.

JOB/CAREER REQUIREMENTS
The plumber typically must have a high school diploma or the equivalent and understand construction and residential building safety practices and equipment, installing, maintaining, and repairing many different types of pipe systems. In addition to knowledge and skills in each plumbing area, successful entry-level plumbers must have excellent communication skills and be able to listen to and effectively communicate with the supervisors and coworkers. They must also understand and comply with the numerous state and federal laws that govern the industry. 

PLUMBING TECHNICIAN WORKPLACE TASKS:

• Describe the building trades and technology industry and associated career paths
• Identify the professional skills required for success and career advancement in the industry
• Complete basic measuring tasks and math calculations required in the building trades workplace
• Explain the safety procedures and equipment commonly used in the building trades workplace
• Explain the proper use, care, maintenance, and safety considerations for using common hand tools
• Explain the proper use, care, maintenance, and safety considerations for using common power tools
• Identify common rigging equipment and procedures used on a construction site
• Read common construction drawings and plans
• Selecting and properly using personal protective equipment for specific plumbing situations
• Selecting and properly using hand tools, power tools, and other equipment for plumbing tasks
• Understanding and complying with local plumbing codes
• Working safely in different construction and plumbing environments
• Using math concepts to perform plumbing measurements and calculations
• Interpreting plumbing drawings
• Identifying, storing, measuring, cutting, joining, and working safely with plastic, copper, cast-iron, and carbon steel pipes and fittings
• Identifying, installing, maintaining, and repairing different types of plumbing fixtures including sinks, lavatories, faucets, bathtubs, showers, toilets, urinals, bidets, drinking fountains, water coolers, and appliances
• Explaining how waste moves from a fixture through a drain system to the environment
• Explaining the components of a drainage system including traps
• Explaining the process and components of water distribution in municipal, residential, and private water systems
• Understanding health issues, types of code violations, and consequences related to DWV systems

• Plumbing Objectives