Every day, plumbers have to deal with water leaks, clogged drains and other plumbing problems. To keep up with all of these issues, a plumber generally works for a company that is under the leadership of a foreman. In this article we’ll talk about what a plumbing foreman does, how they differ from regular supervisors and what qualities are needed to become one.
What is a Plumbing Foreman?
The role of plumbing foreman is different from regular supervisors in the way that they have to deal with clogged drains and water leaks every single day, instead of an occasional occurrence like most other supervisors. The foreman’s main responsibility is to make sure that the plumbing work under them is on schedule and no issues arise. This means that they can’t afford to spend a day in the office, but rather have to be out on-site overseeing the project at all times.
Plumbing foremen also hire and train new workers and provide technical support for their subordinates when necessary. They also need to know what best practices to use in every situation and how to prioritize jobs in an efficient manner.
Foremen that work specifically with water and gas systems need a special license in order to do their job effectively and safely, without putting the public at risk. In many cases this means having a license from the state board of professional engineers. Foremen also need to be very familiar with the latest tools and equipment that plumbers use for their jobs.
Qualities of a Good Plumbing Foreman
In order to be a successful foreman, you need experience as a plumber first and foremost. This is how you become knowledgeable about proper practices and can help others on your team, since you’re familiar with the daily challenges that plumbers face.
Foremen also need to be very organized, since they’re in charge of many people and projects at once. They need to know how to prioritize their workload efficiently, while making sure that everything gets done on schedule.
A good foreman needs excellent communication skills so that they can easily explain how to do certain tasks to their subordinates. They also need to be self-motivated and willing to work hard in order to keep up with all of their responsibilities.
Foremen must have patience when dealing with workers, especially when they’re new or struggling, so that they are able to teach them the right way of doing things. Lastly, foremen need to be very knowledgeable and up-to-date on the latest in plumbing technology, in order to best utilize their workers and tools.
How much does a plumbing foreman make?
In most cases, a foreman will make more than a regular plumber due to their added responsibilities and duties. In some higher paying jobs, the pay difference can be as much as 50% or even higher.
There are many excellent benefits to being a plumbing foreman that cannot be overlooked. Foremen generally work about 40 hours per week, but can get additional work by picking up overtime hours when their subordinates are not available.
In addition to this, you’ll often be offered health insurance and paid time off with many companies that offer these jobs. Most foremen also receive bonuses during the year in addition to their regular pay.
Overall, plumbing foremen can make a very good living, especially when they have been with a company for several years. Being able to be your own boss and have control over your daily tasks can provide a lot of satisfaction in addition to all the money you’ll make.
How to become a plumbing foreman
It is not easy to become a foreman, since most companies require many years of experience in order to get these types of jobs. This means that if you want the job, you’ll first need to gain plumber experience first and then work your way up through the company.
The best way to really stand out as an applicant is take advantage of any opportunities along the way to show your skills and abilities. For example, if you’re in charge of a project at work, make sure that it is completed on time and with all required permits.
You should also display leadership qualities when working with others, so that future employers will know that you have what it takes for this job. Lastly, make sure that you’re willing to work long hours and do whatever is necessary to benefit the company.
Most companies offer courses or seminars that allow their employees to gain additional training, which can be helpful for those who want to become foremen. There are also many great books on this topic available in local bookstores if you prefer having a physical item. You can also find many training videos online that will help you learn more about this career path.
Do I need to attend school if I want to become a plumbing foreman?
If you’re still in school and want to become a foreman, it’s never too early to start focusing on these types of classes so that you’ll be prepared for this career.
It’s always a good idea to take as many classes as possible because you never know what type of knowledge will be useful in the future. This means that it would be wise to take as many business and communication classes as you can since these will help develop your communication and leadership skills.
You should also consider taking some technical plumbing classes since these classes will help you learn more about the trade.
However, even if you’re not still in school, it can be helpful to take courses at a local community college or online. These forms of education are often inexpensive and easy to enroll in. You can also gain more knowledge about becoming a plumber with these courses, which is always a bonus.