The Basic Guide to Plumbing Apprenticeships in Melbourne:
Are you ready to dive into the exciting world of plumbing apprenticeships in Melbourne? If you’re looking to kickstart your career in the plumbing industry, then hopefully we can give you some useful tips to get started. This basic guide will equip you with the information you need to know about plumbing apprenticeships in Melbourne, from the benefits to the qualifications required and the steps to get started.
Embarking on a plumbing apprenticeship is an excellent choice for those seeking a hands-on career that offers job security and growth opportunities. As a plumber, you’ll be in high demand, and with the right training and experience, you can build a rewarding and lucrative career.
Throughout this guide, we’ll explore the different aspects of plumbing apprenticeships in Melbourne, avenues to securing an apprenticeship in Melbourne, earning potential, and the skills you’ll develop. Whether you’re a recent school leaver, looking for a career change, or simply interested in joining the plumbing industry, this guide will provide you with valuable insights and resources to pave your way to success.
Why choose a plumbing apprenticeship in Melbourne
Melbourne is a thriving city with a booming construction and infrastructure industry, making it an excellent location to pursue a plumbing apprenticeship. As the population continues to grow, the demand for skilled plumbers has never been higher. By choosing a plumbing apprenticeship in Melbourne, you’ll be positioning yourself for a rewarding and in-demand career. Already on the ground there are a noticeable lack of plumbers coming through the system. This can only be a benefit to those choosing this career path now.
Moreover, Melbourne’s plumbing industry is highly regulated, ensuring that apprentices receive comprehensive training and support. The city’s apprenticeship programs are designed to provide a structured learning environment, with a combination of on-the-job training and formal education. This ensures that you’ll acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to become a competent and licensed plumber, ultimately enhancing your employability and earning potential.
Finding and applying for plumbing apprenticeships in Melbourne
Finding the right plumbing apprenticeship in Melbourne isn’t always straightforward process, as a lot of plumbers don’t always go the traditional routes when hiring new candidates. Below are a few avenues you might like to pursue.
- Explore the apprenticeship programs offered by organisations such as Master Plumbers Association . Master Plumbers will work with you and send you to a range of host employers throughout your time.
- Use your Network- Ask family and friends if they know a plumber. If you have a mutual friend or contact then an owner of a plumbing company will be usually be open to a cold call. Sporting clubs are also a great way to connect with tradies who might be looking for an apprentice, as simple as it sounds just being part of the same club will give you a leg up.
- Facebook- There are plenty of Facebook plumbing pages that business owners in Melbourne frequent. Put a post out with some basic details and see how you go.
- Cold Text a small Plumbing Businesses- Yep text. I myself would more likely shut down a cold call than a text. Interrupting a busy owner who is most likely wearing multiple hats with a call out of the blue might be met with a short response. A text however can sit in the inbox until the boss is ready to sit down and actually think about whether you could be a good fit.
- Cold call a bigger plumbing business- Yep this time its a call. Most likely the call will be answered by admin or the operations manager. More than likely they will at least hear you out and let the boss know that there was someone keen on the phone for an apprenticeship.
- Get chummy with your trade school teacher- Many soon to be plumbers choose to do a pre-apprenticeship through a registered RTO or trade school. Employers are known to call plumbing departments at trade schools and ask for any standout prospects. If you work hard and go above and beyond, you could find yourself being referred by your teachers.
- Jump on the usual job websites- Seek, Jora, Indeed and a host of others. Polish your resume and cover letter. If you aren’t confident in your abilities to write a decent CV then hire professional to get one together for you. At the very least put some time into your cover letter. An apprentice applicant usually won’t have a long resume to go over, so a well written cover letter can go a long way to getting your foot in the door.
When applying for a plumbing apprenticeship in Melbourne, it’s essential to be prepared and present yourself as a strong candidate. Do your research on the company you are applying to and get your ducks in a row. Ducks may include an up to date resume, drivers licence and means of transport, a basic knowledge of what plumbers do, some hand tools, a stable place to live while on a relatively low income, support of family and friends with your new career path and most importantly and outward enthusiasm that reflects to a would be employer your willingness to see it through.
The application process may involve submitting a resume, completing an interview, and potentially undergoing a skills assessment or aptitude test. accordingly. By showcasing your enthusiasm, problem-solving abilities, and willingness to learn, you can increase your chances of securing a coveted plumbing apprenticeship in Melbourne.
What to expect during a plumbing apprenticeship
A plumbing apprenticeship in Melbourne typically lasts for four years, during which time you’ll receive a combination of on-the-job training and formal education. The on-the-job component will involve working alongside experienced plumbers, learning the intricacies of the trade through hands-on experience.
During this time, depending on your employer you could be exposed to a wide variety of learning opportunities inside the plumbing industry. Different Licence classes within the plumbing trade include gasfitting, drainage, roofing, heating and cooling, hot and cold water supply and many more. It is a good idea to research prospective future employers to see what area or areas they specialise in. If you want to keep your options open down the track you may wish to choose a company that covers a broad spectrum of plumbing services. This will help you get an idea of what you might like to pursue if you decide to start a business in the future.
In addition to the on-the-job training, you’ll also be required to attend formal classes and complete theoretical coursework. This educational component is typically provided by a registered training organization (RTO) or a technical and further education (TAFE) institute otherwise known as trade school. The curriculum will cover topics such as plumbing theory, building codes, and workplace health and safety, ensuring that you have a comprehensive understanding of the industry’s standards and regulations. Employers will expect you to take charge of your own learning and given they are paying you to be there you better show up and put your best foot forward. Trade schools have increasingly lifted there communication with employers so it is important to treat both the schooling and the hands on plumbing as equally important.
The support system provided by your boss and trade school will help you navigate the challenges of the apprenticeship, providing guidance and feedback to ensure your successful completion of your time. Regular assessments at school and progress reviews by your employer will ( Or at least should be) be conducted to monitor your development and ensure that you’re on track to becoming a qualified plumber.
The Benefits Of A Plumbing Apprenticeship
Embarking on a plumbing apprenticeship in Melbourne offers a wealth of benefits that can set you up for a rewarding and fulfilling career. One of the primary advantages is the opportunity to earn while you learn. As an apprentice, you’ll be employed and receive a competitive wage, which will increase as you progress through the program and acquire new skills.
In addition to the financial benefits, a plumbing apprenticeship in Melbourne provides you with the chance to gain hands-on experience and develop a deep understanding of the trade. By working alongside experienced plumbers, you’ll learn the latest techniques, industry best practices, and the nuances of problem-solving in a real-world setting. This practical experience is invaluable and will give you a significant advantage over those who have only received classroom-based training.
Furthermore, a plumbing apprenticeship in Melbourne can lead to a diverse range of career opportunities. As a qualified plumber, you’ll be in high demand, with the ability to work in a variety of settings, from residential to commercial and industrial projects. This versatility allows you to explore different specializations within the plumbing industry, such as gas fitting, drainage, or even starting your own plumbing business.
Another key benefit of a plumbing apprenticeship in Melbourne is the potential for career advancement. As you progress through the program and gain more experience, you’ll have the opportunity to take on more complex tasks, supervisory roles, or even pursue further education and training to expand your skill set. This can lead to increased earning potential, job security, and the ability to take on more challenging and rewarding projects.
Overall, a plumbing apprenticeship in Melbourne is an excellent choice for those seeking a hands-on, in-demand career with excellent job prospects and growth opportunities. By investing in your training and gaining the necessary skills and qualifications, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a respected and valued member of the plumbing industry in this vibrant city.
How Much Will You Get paid?
With any apprenticeship you can expect the pay to start off fairly poor and plumbing is no different. Depending on you employer you will either fall under the Plumber and Fire Sprinklers award updated in 2023, or the Plumbing Union and there EBA agreement. Below is the current EBA agreement and as you can see you could be making about $900 a week before any entitlements including site allowance. First year apprentices under the Plumber and Fire Sprinklers award would be looking at taking home around $600 , depending on age and education.
Job Prospects And Career Growth
A plumbing apprenticeship in Melbourne offers a solid foundation in a highly respected and well-paid trade. In Victoria, plumbing is a licensed and protected trade, ensuring that only qualified professionals can legally perform plumbing work. This safeguards the quality and safety of services provided, making licensed plumbers in high demand.
As an apprentice, you’ll gain hands-on experience across various specialties, including gas fitting, gas servicing, roofing, drainage, backflow prevention, maintenance plumbing, and new builds. This diverse skill set opens many avenues for career growth. After completing your apprenticeship and obtaining your license, you can choose to specialize in one of these areas or continue to work across multiple sectors.
Many plumbers eventually start their own businesses, benefiting from the high demand for skilled tradespeople in Melbourne’s thriving construction and renovation industries. With competitive pay and numerous career paths, a plumbing apprenticeship offers a secure and prosperous future.
Conclusion
In conclusion, embarking on a plumbing apprenticeship in Melbourne is a strategic and rewarding career move. The city’s thriving construction industry, coupled with the high demand for licensed plumbers, ensures a stable and lucrative career path. As an apprentice, you’ll not only earn while you learn but also gain invaluable hands-on experience across various plumbing specialties. The protected and licensed nature of the trade in Victoria adds to the credibility and marketability of your skills. With dedication and the right training, you’ll have the opportunity to advance into specialized roles, start your own business, or move into supervisory positions. By choosing this path, you’re investing in a secure, well-compensated future in a respected and essential industry.
