Trades & Technical Careers
Plumber
You install and fix water, drainage, geysers and gas systems.
- Starting salary
- R8 000 – R15 000 (apprentice)
- Job demand
- Always needed
- Key subjects
- Mathematics or Maths Literacy, Physical Sciences
What do they do?
You install and fix water, drainage, geysers and gas systems.
A day in the life
You travel to jobs, diagnose leaks and blockages, install systems and quote customers.
Skills you need
- Practical skill
- Problem solving
- Fitness
- Customer service
School subjects that help
- Mathematics or Maths Literacy
- Physical Sciences
- Civil Technology
How long does it take?
4 main steps after school, usually 2–4 years of training after school.
Study path
- 1High school / N-courses
- 2Apprenticeship
- 3Trade test
- 4Qualified plumber
- 5Own business
Ways in: TVET College · Apprenticeship · Learnership · Entrepreneurship. University is not the only route.
Where can I study?
- TVET Colleges nationwide
- PIRB-accredited training providers
Admission requirements differ by institution, always check the official website.
What can I earn?
Entry level
R8 000 – R15 000 (apprentice)
per month (estimate)
Mid career
R18 000 – R32 000
per month (estimate)
Experienced / senior
R35 000 – R70 000+ (own business more)
per month (estimate)
Estimated salary ranges only. Salaries vary based on experience, qualification, industry, location and employer.
How to start preparing now
- • Learn to fix a leaking tap
- • Do N1–N3 plumbing
- • Shadow a plumber for a day
Try this career
Fix or service a dripping tap at home (with an adult) and explain how it works.
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This tool is designed to help you explore career possibilities. It does not replace professional career counselling, school guidance or official university admission requirements.