Plumber-First Class (1101)

Philadelphia, United States
Plumber-First Class (1101)
Company
Septa
Location
Philadelphia, PA
Job type
Full-time
Posted
8 days ago
Via
Septa Careers
Job description
The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) is the sixth largest transportation system in the United States, with a vast network of fixed route services including bus, subway/elevated, trackless trolley, light rail, and commuter rail serving a 2,200 square mile service region.

We are seeking candidates for the position of Plumber-First Class (1101) in the Maintenance/Bridges & Buildings.
• Starting Pay Rate: $37.11/hour - After 12 Months: $41.23, based on applicable contract.

OVERALL DESCRIPTION

Assembles, installs, repairs, inspects or tests pipes, fittings, or fixtures of heating, water, drainage systems fire equipment and alarm systems, according to specifications or plumbing codes.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES
• Installs and repairs plumbing in: street water and sewer connections, ejectors, drain lines, sprinkler pipe, rain conductors, gas and gasoline pipe tanks and equipment, air pipes, lubrication oil pipes.
• Installs pipe and boiler insulation, brass and copper tubing and fittings, and other related equipment.
• Inspects and tests, fire equipment, alarm systems, grounds and vehicles.
• Installs and repairs brass and copper tubing and related fittings.

ADDITIONAL SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
• Must be a high school graduate or equivalent.
• Must be experienced in the installation, maintenance and repair of plumbing and related parts and accessories along with heating, high and low pressure steam and water heating and power units. Must be able to create shop drawings, layout work, compile material lists and complete work reports.
• Must satisfactorily complete qualifications tests: basic mathematics, blue print reading, and plumbing and hand tools.
• Must have valid Philadelphia journeyman's card.
• Must have valid driver's license. Will be required to obtain CDL permit within 60 days of transfer.
• There will be times in the course and scope of your duties in the CTD when working in a truck-mounted bucket will be required. Said bucket has a maximum extension capacity of approximately 30 feet high.
• As part of the qualification test, you will be required to climb an extension ladder (of approximately 20 feet) and descend back to the ground.

IDEAL QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

SEPTA is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

Frequently asked questions

Quick answers about Plumber Jobs in United States

Q
What is the median salary for plumbers in the United States in 2026?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the median annual wage for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters as $61,550 ($29.59 per hour) based on May 2023 data applicable through 2026. Entry-level positions start at $39,020 annually ($18.76 per hour), while top earners make $101,910 ($48.99 per hour). Mean wages are $65,790 annually ($31.63 per hour).
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Q
What work visa is required for foreign plumbers to work in the US in 2026?
Foreign plumbers qualify for H-2B temporary non-agricultural worker visas when US employers demonstrate temporary labor shortages; the FY2026 statutory cap is 66,000 visas. Employers must obtain DOL temporary labor certification and file USCIS Form I-129 with supporting job order details. Visa validity is up to 1 year, extendable to 3 years maximum.
Source: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
Q
What education and experience are needed to start as a plumber in the US with no background?
A high school diploma or GED and being at least 18 years old qualify applicants for registered apprenticeship programs lasting 4 to 5 years. These programs include 2,000 hours of paid on-the-job training and 144 hours of related technical instruction annually. No prior experience is required, but mechanical aptitude is tested.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Q
What documents are required to apply for plumber apprenticeship programs in the US?
Applicants must submit a high school diploma or GED, proof of age (18+ via birth certificate or ID), Social Security card, and driver's license or state ID. Some programs require a pre-apprenticeship drug test and physical exam results. Applications go through DOL-registered sponsors found on Apprenticeship.gov.
Source: U.S. Department of Labor Office of Apprenticeship