Becoming a plumber can be a rewarding and diversified career with plenty of room for growth, especially in fast-growing states like Florida. However, you are required to have a plumbing license to work in Florida, and the licensing process can be complicated.  

The entire process takes a minimum of four years, but the time commitment is worth it. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a 6% job growth over the next decade, and Florida has the third highest demand for plumbers – behind California and Texas.  

In Florida, you will find certified plumbers who can work anywhere in the state and registered plumbers who are restricted to working in the local municipality where registered. The steps to becoming certified or registered are essentially the same and include a combination of work experience and education before taking and passing an exam.   

What Does a Plumber Do?  

Plumbers do a lot more than connect pipes—they install, maintain, repair, and design plumbing systems in residential and commercial spaces. Plumbers can perform any of these functions for sewer or storm drainage facilities, private water systems, septic tanks, swimming pool piping, irrigation, solar heating systems, gas line piping, and pneumatic control piping systems.   

Successful plumbers are expert problem-solvers with advanced troubleshooting skills, know how to read and interpret construction drawings and blueprints, and have technical and mechanical know-how to correctly install, fit, and connect piping to avoid leaks and maintain adequate flow.  

Plumbers work in residential and commercial settings. Within those settings, some plumbers choose to specialize in service or construction plumbing.   

Residential Plumbers  

Residential plumbers work on plumbing systems in single- and multifamily housing. The work entails installing, maintaining, and repairing water, drain, and sewer lines and installing and troubleshooting appliances such as dishwashers, toilets, bathtubs, and water heaters.    

Commercial Plumbers  

The scope of work for commercial plumbers is like that of residential plumbers, but on a much larger scale. They work with a complex network of water supply and drainage systems in commercial buildings, large multifamily dwellings, schools, retail outlets, and other public spaces. Commerical plumbing systems handle much larger volumes of flow, have more fixtures, and complex layouts.    

Service Plumbers  

Service plumbers are expert troubleshooters who spend most of their day making repairs to existing plumbing systems. These plumbers navigate the challenges of retrofitting older and outdated systems with new materials when replacing or repairing broken pipes and fixtures. Service plumbers also install new systems when the old one can no longer be patched.    

New Construction Plumbers 

Plumbers who specialize in new construction work with a blank slate. They are experts at reading and interpreting blueprints. They understand the construction process and where their role as plumbers fits into the overall project. New construction plumbers are excellent communicators and well-versed in all aspects of residential or commercial plumbing, depending on their setting of interest. 

Types of Plumbing Licenses in Florida 

There are two types of licensed plumbers in Florida:  

• Certified Plumbers  

• Registered Plumbers  

A certified plumber can work statewide. Their license is issued by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). To become certified, you must meet the education and experience requirements and pass a written test. Certified plumbing contractors must meet a background check, have adequate insurance, and pay licensing fees. Their occupation code is designated with the letter “C.”   

A registered plumbing contractor is restricted to working within the jurisdiction where the registration was issued. They are required to meet education and experience requirements and pass a test showing competency in the profession and local regulations where they intend to work. Registered plumbers are designated by the letter “R” on their license. 

These two designations apply to your license whether you’re a journeyman level or master level plumber. The same designation applies to those who get their plumbing contractor’s license.  

Basic Requirement to Becoming a Licensed Plumber in Florida 

Whether you’re going for a “C” or “R” on your license, the steps to becoming licensed in Florida are essentially the same. You must be physically fit enough to do the job, able to squeeze into tight spaces, and work in hot and humid conditions. You must also meet some basic requirements:   

1. Be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED.  

1. Complete the required experience and education.  

1. Verify on-the-job experience.  

1. Pass an exam.  

1. Acquire liability insurance.  

1. Demonstrate financial responsibility.  

1. Complete a criminal background check. 

Obtain the Required Education and Training  

Before you can get your license as a journeyman plumber, you need to prove you meet the education and experience requirements. While you’re not required to attend a vocational training program or community college, you are required to get a minimum of four years of documented experience before you can take the exam. However, education counts toward experience.  

Here is a look at the different methods you can use to qualify to sit for your journeyman plumbing license exam: 

• A four-year construction related degree from an accredited college and one year of proven experience.  

• Three years of credits from accredited college-level courses and one year of experience as a plumbing foreman.  

• Two years of credits from accredited college-level courses, one year of experience as a plumbing foreman, and one year as a worker.  

• One year of credits from accredited college-level courses, one year of experience as a plumbing foreman, and two years as a worker. 

• Four years of documented experience with one of those years as a plumbing foreman.  

Journeyman plumbers work under the supervision of a master plumber. To obtain your master plumbing license, you need an additional two years of experience as a journeyman plumber and pass an exam. Master plumbers work independently. However, if you wish to hire employees, you will need your plumbing contractor’s license.  

To open a business where you intend to hire employees, you will apply for the Certified Plumbing Contractor Qualifying Business license. The requirements are the same for getting your journeyman license with the exception of carrying workers’ compensation insurance.  

How to Find a Vocational Training Program 

The state does not maintain a list of approved vocational training programs or colleges. So, when you’re searching for a program, you want to ensure you will get the training you need to excel as a plumber. Your coursework should include a mix of classroom and hands-on laboratory hours. Practical experience should include all phases of assembly, installation, and repair to pipes, fittings, and fixtures with an emphasis on safety. Many programs offer job placement assistance, which allows you to start working—and earning—while going to school. Tuition varies considerably, but most two-year programs cost roughly $5,000. 

Some of the top programs in Florida and their tuition costs at time of publication include:  

• Fort Meyers Technical College; tuition $3,941 

• Sheridan Technical College; tuition $4,955 

• Osceola Technical College; tuition $4,988 

How to Find an Apprenticeship Program 

Apprenticeships combine work experience and classroom instruction. One of the benefits of joining an apprenticeship program is that you begin to make money right away without the costs of paying for an education. A plumbing apprenticeship program is offered through the UA Local 234 union in Jacksonville, Florida. To participate, you will be required to join the union. 

Gain On-the-Job Experience 

On-the-job experience is required to get your license. Most trade schools will offer job placement services. The benefits of beginning to work in the field include learning about the day-to-day work as a plumber and gaining valuable experience that will help you pass the written portion of your exam.  

Apprenticeship programs are an excellent way to start working right away. Another option is finding a master plumber or plumbing contractor willing to hire someone new to the industry. Keep in mind, apprenticeship programs often include an educational component. That doesn’t mean you can’t get your license without classroom hours; it just means that you will need four years or 8,000 hours of experience.  

The number of working hours you need to sit for your journeyman license depends on how many classroom credits you earn.  

Pass the Florida Plumbing Licensing Exams 

The two-part exam includes the Plumbing General Trade Knowledge test and the Business and Financial Management test. You’re required to pass both parts with a 70% or better. The Business and Financial Management exam has 120 questions and is completed at a testing center.  

The Plumbing General Trade Knowledge portion is a written test. The trade exam is divided into a morning session consisting of 45 equally weighted questions and five isometric drawings worth 10 points each and an afternoon session with 65 equally weighted questions. Both sessions have a four and a half hour time limit to complete. The exam tests your knowledge in: 

• Drainage (20%) 

• Water distribution (20%) 

• Natural gas piping (15%) 

• Medical gas piping (20%) 

• Industrial piping (10%) 

• Swimming pools, wells, and irrigation (5%) 

• Solar (5%) 

• Fire protection (5%) 

The trade exam covers reading and interpreting plans and specifications, interpreting codes, basic math, plumbing components and installation techniques, maintenance techniques, OSHA regulations, tools and equipment, and isometric drawing and interpretation.  

Only designated reference materials listed on the DBPR website are allowed. This includes bound pdf reference material or bound books. Referenced books can be permanently tabbed and highlighted; however, no removal tabs (Post-it notes) or handwritten notes are allowed. Additionally, test takers cannot take notes in the reference material during the examination.  

Test preparation courses, like ours, include bound, tabbed, and highlighted reference materials you can bring with you to the exam. Test prep courses also include multiple practice exams to help you study. Practice tests simulate testing conditions, so you are prepared on exam day. 

Applicants apply online to take the exam. Candidates are approved by Professional Testing, Inc. Once approved, you can set a date to take the business and finance portion at a Pearson VUE site. The in-person Plumbing General Trade Knowledge exam is offered in February, April, June, August, October, and December in Orlando, Florida.  

There are three fees associated with the exam, including $135 to Professional Testing, Inc., $80 payable to the Florida DBPR for the written exam, and $80 to Pearson VUE for the Business and Finance exam. 

Applying for a Plumbing License in Florida 

After passing the exam, you will submit an application to the DBPR showing proof of education and experience, financial stability, insurance, and criminal history. There is an application fee depending on when you submit your application and whether that is an even or odd year. The fee ranges from $95 to $245. Your license is valid for two years and renews every August of every even-numbered year. It should be noted that HB 1091 reduced licensure fees by 50% for Fiscal Years 2023/2024 and 2024/2025.  

Education and Experience 

On the application, you will document your work experience and education, indicating the method of qualification. You are required to list your employer(s) name, license number, and contact information.  

Financial Stability  

This is determined by submitting a credit report and showing a credit score of at least 660. If you do not meet the required credit score, you must show proof of completion of an approved 14-hour financial responsibility course.  

Insurance  

You’re required to carry general liability insurance of $100,000 and property damage of $25,000. If you’re applying for your plumbing contractor’s license and intend to have employees, you’re required to provide worker’s compensation insurance within 30 days of issuance of your license.  

Criminal History  

Your criminal history is obtained from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). The FDLE will take your fingerprints and process your criminal background for the state.   

Continuing Education and License Renewal 

Continuing education (CE) is part of maintaining your license—whether you’re a certified or registered journeyman or master plumber or have your plumbing contractor’s license.  

A total of 14 hours of CE are required with a minimum of one hour each of specialized or advanced training, workplace safety, business practices, worker’s compensation, and rules and laws. The remaining CE hours can be any board-approved construction-related courses.  

If you applied for your license between September 1st of an even year and April 30th of an odd year, your license will renew the first August. If you apply between May 1st of an even year and August 31st of an odd year, your license will renew a year later. In these instances, your license will renew every two years after your first renewal.  

In all other instances, your license renews on August 31st of every even year. CE must be completed prior to renewing your license.  

The renewal fee is $130 or $180 with a qualified business. Note that these fees have also been reduced by 50% through Fiscal Year 2024/2025.   

Career Opportunities for Licensed Plumbers in Florida 

The plumbing field offers a range of career opportunities. As a journeyman or master plumber, you can work for small or large companies, or you can become a licensed plumbing contractor and call your own shots.   

Service plumbers can work irregular hours unclogging drains at the most inopportune times, but rake in extra spending money with after-hours pay. Construction plumbers maintain a fairly regular 40-hour week schedule and often work for large companies that offer competitive benefits packages.  

Starting your own plumbing business in Florida can be incredibly lucrative for a business savvy plumber. There are higher costs associated with owning your own business, but you are awarded with freedom to go after the jobs you want and build your legacy.  

How much you make depends on where in the state you work, what type of work you perform, and whether you have any additional experience or certifications, such as solar water heating or gas piping. The average salary for a journeyman plumber in Florida is $51,830, and the average annual salary for a master plumber is $102,000. How much you make as a licensed plumbing contractor depends a lot on how ambitious you are. 

Conclusion 

It takes some leg work to become a licensed plumber in Florida. But it starts with education and experience. When you’re ready to take your exam, it’s important to have the resources you need to pass. That’s where Gold Costs School of Construction comes in—we’re your partner to help you study and pass your plumbing contractor’s exam.  

Right now is an excellent time to become a licensed plumber in Florida. If you have any questions about how to get your plumbing license, please contact one of our career counselors (800-732-9140), or visit Gold Coast’s course info page to learn more about the plumbing program. We look forward to showing you why contractors trust Gold Coast School of Construction for all their educational needs. 

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Hello Chapter Miami INC.
Ben
eran@hellochapter.com

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Schedule maintenance of the systems to maintain the integrity of the facility boiler systems, pumps, ventilation systems, plumbing, water and sewage systems, the Energy Management System (EMS) and other building components. Facilitate the use of appropriate service manuals, technical manuals and blueprints during preventive maintenance, repair or replacement of systems or components. Adhere to sound engineering practices, building codes, and follow safety precautions. Perform miscellaneous minor repairs such as changing light bulbs in the common areas and amenity spaces, patching holes in walls, and painting, changing air conditioning filters, washing the common area carpets. Perform preventative maintenance on tools and equipment, including cleaning and lubrication. Maintain daily logs of operation, maintenance, and safety activities. Communicate with Director of Residences/Residences Manager when necessary to resolve maintenance issues.

Follow all company and safety and security policies and procedures; report maintenance problems, safety hazards, accidents, or injuries; and complete safety training and certifications. Ensure uniform and personal appearance is clean and professional, maintain confidentiality of proprietary information, and protect company assets. Welcome and acknowledge all guests according to company standards, anticipate and address guests’ service needs, and assist individuals with disabilities. Speak with others using clear and professional language. Develop and maintain positive working relationships with others and listen and respond appropriately to the concerns of other employees. Adhere to quality expectations and standards. Reach overhead and below the knees, including bending, twisting, pulling, and stooping. Visually inspect tools, equipment, or machines. Move, lift, carry, push, pull, and place objects weighing less than or equal to 50 pounds without assistance. Assist with moving, lifting, carrying, and placing of objects weighing in excess of 100 pounds. Move up and down stairs, service ramps, and/or ladder. Grasp, turn, and manipulate objects of varying size and weight. Perform other reasonable job duties as requested.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education: Technical, Trade or Vocational School Degree.

Related Work Experience: 3 years of related work experience.

Supervisory Experience: Supervisory experience.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
License or Certification: First Class Stationary Engineer’s Operating License

Marriott International is an equal opportunity employer. We believe in hiring a diverse workforce and sustaining an inclusive, people-first culture. We are committed to non-discrimination on any protected basis, such as disability and veteran status, or any other basis covered under applicable law.

At more than 100 award-winning properties worldwide, The Ritz-Carlton Ladies and Gentlemen create experiences so exceptional that long after a guest stays with us, the experience stays with them. Attracting the world’s top hospitality professionals who curate lifelong memories, we believe that everyone succeeds when they are empowered to be creative, thoughtful and compassionate.

Every day, we set the standard for rare and special luxury service the world over and pride ourselves on delivering excellence in the care and comfort of our guests.

Your role will be to ensure that the “Gold Standards” of The Ritz-Carlton are delivered graciously and thoughtfully every day. The Gold Standards are the foundation of The Ritz-Carlton and are what guides us each day to be better than the next. It is this foundation and our belief that our culture drives success by which The Ritz Carlton has earned the reputation as a global brand leader in luxury hospitality. As part of our team, you will learn and exemplify the Gold Standards, such as our Employee Promise, Credo and our Service Values. And our promise to you is that we offer the chance to be proud of the work you do and who you work with.

In joining The Ritz-Carlton, you join a portfolio of brands with Marriott International. Be where you can do your best work, begin your purpose, belong to an amazing global team, and become the best version of you.

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The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Miami Beach
Ritu Paliwal
ritu.paliwal@ritzcarlton.com

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JOB SUMMARY
Responsible for plumbing activities including training, safety inspections, and permits. Reports to the Branch Manager.
Job Type: Full-time
Expected hours: 40 per week
Yearly salary: 75000-85000k

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Trains, mentors, and guides Installers on basic plumbing. Provides advice and guidance to staff to resolve problems or issues.
Conducts on-site safety audits to ensure that installers are abiding by company safety policies.
Approve plumbing scope of work following established Bath Fitter procedure.
Obtains permits as required for work performed by the company.
Assists with inventory as required.
Performs all tasks and responsibilities while adhering to established safety protocols, including the use of Personal Protective Equipment.
Gathers and prepares supplies, products, and materials for Installer jobs.
Daily and monthly management of inventory

Benefits:
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
100% Company paid LTD and Life Insurance as per stipulated maximum
Flexible Spending OR Health Savings Account
Continuous Education Opportunities
Company Paid Cell Phone
7 Paid Holidays
Uniforms
Company Branded Vehicle & Gas Card
2 Weeks Paid Time Off

Schedule: Monday to Friday
Language: English and Spanish (Required)
Work Location: In person

License/Certification:
Plumber State License of Florida (Required)
Certified Plumber Contractor (Required)

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Bath Fitter
Cristina Sciortino
cristina@jesepi.com

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At KohlerHaus Remodeling Co., we believe that your home is a reflection of your unique style and personality. With a commitment to integrity, responsiveness, and delivering high-quality work, we stand as a premier remodeling company dedicated to transforming your vision into reality.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Estimating New Jobs:
Evaluate project specifications, blueprints, and other documentation to accurately estimate the cost of labor, materials, and equipment required for new construction or remodeling projects.
Collaborate with clients, architects, and engineers to understand project requirements and provide detailed and competitive project bids.

Project Calendar Management:
Develop and maintain comprehensive project schedules, outlining critical milestones, tasks, and deadlines.
Coordinate with project stakeholders to ensure timely completion of each phase, adjusting schedules as needed to accommodate changes or unforeseen circumstances.

Subcontractor Management:
Identify, evaluate, and select subcontractors based on their expertise, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.
Negotiate contracts with subcontractors, defining scope of work, timelines, and payment terms.
Effectively communicate project expectations and ensure subcontractors adhere to project specifications and timelines.

Overall Project Management:
Provide strong leadership and supervision on construction sites, ensuring adherence to safety protocols and quality standards.
Collaborate with project architects, engineers, and other stakeholders to resolve any issues that may arise during construction.
Monitor project budgets, expenses, and financial reports, taking corrective action as needed to stay within budgetary constraints.

Remodeling Jobs Completion:
Oversee the execution of remodeling projects, ensuring that the work is completed to the client’s satisfaction and in accordance with design and building codes.
Conduct regular site inspections to assess progress and quality of work, addressing any issues promptly.
Ensure all necessary permits and inspections are obtained and completed.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Proven experience as a General Contractor with a track record of successful project completion.
In-depth knowledge of construction processes, materials, and safety regulations.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Excellent communication and negotiation abilities.
Proficient in project management software and Microsoft Office suite.
Relevant certifications and licenses in construction management or related fields.

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and are committed to providing an inclusive and diverse work environment. 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. If you are a highly motivated and organized professional with a passion for delivering high-quality construction projects, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity.

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KohlerHaus Remodeling Co
Camilla Jeffs
cjeffs@kohlerhaus.net

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First Class Pools and Spas
John Scott
firstclassnfit@gmail.com

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About the job:
The Project Manager (PM) is responsible for assisting with planning, executing, and monitoring activities performed by the consultants and contractors. PM will work closely with the Project executive or Senior Project Manager to maintain effective communication to ensure client satisfaction. The position works with internal and external team members on project-based processes to bring increased efficiency in the delivery of all project aspects.

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On Point Managing Solutions
Roy Balseiro
admin@on-pointms.com

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The Operations Manager assists the Building Official : (a) with the operations of the Department’s plan review and inspection services (b) giving direction to Trade Chiefs in implementing the strategic goals of the Department (c) resolving problems with industry and private citizens as these relate to the Board of Rules and Appeals and other boards and government agencies (d) determining priorities for the efficient utilization of resources required for reviewing construction drawings and performing inspections in a thorough and efficient manner.

In times of natural disaster, the Operations Manager coordinates the securing of building sites prior to the event and in conjunction with several government agencies monitors recovery efforts after the event so as to ensure that properly licensed designers and contractors effect repairs in compliance with applicable codes, ordinances and regulations thereby insuring the safety of the public and the restoration and use of property as expeditiously as possible.

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City of Miami Beach
Michael Fritz
michaelfritz@miamibeachfl.gov

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City of Miami Beach
Michael Fritz
michaelfritz@miamibeachfl.gov

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City of Miami Beach
Michael Fritz
michaelfritz@miamibeachfl.gov

The post Building Inspector appeared first on Gold Coast Schools.