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Becoming a plumber is a good choice of career for someone who works well with their hands.
In order to work in the field, there are some steps you need to take.
Read on in order to learn more about working as a plumber in Arkansas.
Article Table of Contents
Plumber Job Description and Requirements
As a plumber, you will work to install or maintain the water supply system in a residence, or office building.
Some of the daily job responsibilities of a plumber include:
- Reading or drafting blueprints
- Installing the piping system
- Maintaining the water system
- Repairing the system whenever needed
- Ensuring the safety standards
- Meeting building regulations
- Using the appropriate devices to measure or solder
To become a plumber in this state, you need to first get a license.
You can only get a license if you develop your skills in a plumbing course.
After the training program is over, you will also need to pass an exam.
Plumber Training and Apprenticeship
In order to become a plumber, you have to find a training program.
No matter your level of experience, you can find programs in trade schools or vocational colleges.
Training programs are available through trade schools that need to be approved by the board.
To be able to attend a program, you need to be at least 18 years old.
You will also need to have a high-school diploma or an equivalent.
You will be required to show proof of ID such as a driver’s license, and have solid math skills.
The training programs for plumbers last for different amounts of time.
However, you should expect to spend about 5 years in training because you’ll have to complete an apprenticeship as well.
As an apprentice, you will be able to assists the plumbing work done by master plumbers or journeymen.
To become one, you first need to register your apprenticeship by sending an apprentice application to the Board.
How to get a Journeyman Plumber License in Arkansas
As a journeyman, you will be able to install plumbing under some specific conditions.
To become a journeyman plumber in Arkansas, you need:
- Experience of 4 years in the industry
- Having finished an apprenticeship program
- To apply for a journeyman license
- A $75 license application fee
- Passing the journeyman plumber exam
This exam will last for 3 hours and includes 100 questions.
The Arkansas Department of Health site has the exact dates for this exam.
How to Get a Master Plumber License in Arkansas
To work as a master plumber in this state, you need:
- 5 years of experience as a plumber
- To work as a journeyman for one year or more
- An application for this specific license
- A $125 license application fee
- To take and pass an exam
After you apply for the license, you will need to take an exam.
This exam includes 100 questions and lasts for 3 hours.
To pass the master plumber licensing exam, you need a score of at least 70%.
The test is managed by The Plumbing Examiners Committee.
After you get your license, you will be able to install new plumbing in any residence.
You will also be able to manage journeyman plumbers.
Plumber Employment and Salary Information
How much you will earn as a plumber in Arkansas depends on your experience level.
For example, master plumbers earn more compared to journeyman plumbers.
Your salary also depends on your certification and where you live.
Generally, if you live and work in a larger area of the state you will also earn more money.
Some examples include cities like Little Rock and North Little Rock.
You can also join a union for increased career opportunities and higher salaries.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Little Rock | $53,424 |
| Fort Smith | $49,986 |
| Fayetteville | $51,808 |
| Springdale | $51,808 |
| Jonesboro | $52,865 |
| North Little Rock | $53,424 |
| Conway | $52,907 |
| Rogers | $51,497 |
| Bentonville | $51,394 |
| Pine Bluff | $51,446 |
Regional Salary in Arkansas
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, AR-MO | 760 | $51,350 | $24.69 | $65,800 | $35,080 |
| Fort Smith, AR-OK | 280 | $47,820 | $22.99 | $68,010 | $30,590 |
| Hot Springs, AR | 100 | $42,700 | $20.53 | $59,590 | $29,950 |
| Jonesboro, AR | 130 | $46,110 | $22.17 | $58,010 | $31,890 |
| Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway, AR | 1,030 | $48,900 | $23.51 | $63,620 | $31,550 |
| Pine Bluff, AR | 50 | $48,470 | $23.3 | $64,930 | $31,200 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
If you want to run your own plumbing business, you will be able to have a higher wage.
However, in order to do this, you will first need a plumbing contractor license.
Additional Information
In Arkansas, the plumbing licenses need to be renewed on an annual basis.
If you need extra information regarding becoming a plumber, you can visit the State Board of Plumbing Examiners.
You will also be able to get more info and resources regarding the industry.
The most important step in achieving the career you want is to complete a training program.
After that, you will be able to find a job and start the career you have always dreamed of.
License Reciprocity for Plumbers in Arkansas
This state does not offer reciprocity with any other state.
If you work as a plumber in another state, you will need to send a request to the State Committee of Plumbing Examiners.
Schools Offering Plumbing Programs in Arkansas
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| NorthWest Arkansas Community College | One College Drive, Bentonville, Arkansas 72712-5091 |
| Ultimate Technical Academy | 6108 Getty Dr, North Little Rock, AR 72117 |
| Arkansas Construction Education Foundation | 4421 W 61st St, Little Rock, AR 72209 |
| University of Arkansas, Pulaski Technical College | 300 West Scenic Drive, North Little Rock, AR |
| Local 155 Plumbers and Pipefitters Apprenticeship Training | 4501 Hoffman Rd. Little Rock, AR 72209 |
| El Dorado Plumbing Apprenticeship School | 300 South West Avenue El Dorado, AR 71730 |
| NWA Plumbing School | 709 South Old Missouri Rd Springdale, AR |
| Little Rock Adult Education | 4800 West 26th Street • Little Rock, AR 72204 |
| University of Arkansas Community College | PO Box 3350 Batesville, AR 72503 |
Read the full guide: How to Become a Plumber
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Plumbing License by State