Plumber
はいかんこう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Specialist who installs, repairs, and maintains piping for water supply and drainage, gas, air conditioning, etc., in buildings and equipment.
Description
Plumbers install, connect, and support pipes and fittings for water supply and drainage, hot water, steam, gas, air conditioning piping, etc., inside buildings and equipment. They are responsible for a series of tasks from selecting piping materials, cutting, bending, welding, fixing, and leak testing based on drawings and construction plans. In addition to new construction, they engage in renovations, maintenance, troubleshooting (leak repairs, clog removal, etc.), and regular inspections. Work sites vary widely, including indoors and outdoors, high places, and confined spaces, requiring knowledge of safety and health management and laws (Building Standards Act, Occupational Safety and Health Act, Water Supply Act, etc.).
Future Outlook
With measures against aging infrastructure and increasing demand for new construction and renovation of buildings, the demand for plumbers remains stably high. The spread of IoT-utilizing smart piping systems and environmentally friendly materials requires expansion of specialized knowledge.
Personality Traits
Able to respond flexibly / Cautious / Physically fit / Strong sense of responsibility / Team-oriented
Work Style
Contract Work / Night Emergency / On-site Work / Self-Employment Possible / Shift Work
Career Path
Apprentice Plumber → Craftsman (Plumber) → Chief Plumber → Construction Management Technician → Site Supervisor/Supervisor → Independent Business
Required Skills
Leak Test Technology / Pipe Bending Processing Technology / Piping Construction Technology / Piping Drawing Reading / Tool Operation / Welding Technology (Arc Welding, Gas Welding)
Recommended Skills
Advanced Welding Technology / Air Conditioning Equipment Knowledge / CAD / English (Technical Document Reading) / Site Management
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | Because environments and conditions differ at each site. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because even a slight gap in pipe joints can cause leaks. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Because there is work at heights or in confined spaces, and handling of heavy objects. |
| Problem Solving | Because the ability to quickly resolve on-site troubles is required. |
| Stress Tolerance | Because physical and mental stress occurs during emergency responses and heavy work. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Because it follows standard work procedures and does not require much original idea generation. |
Related Qualifications
- Drainage Equipment Works Responsible Engineer
- Pipe Construction Management Technician (Grade 1/2)
- Water Supply Equipment Works Chief Engineer
Aliases
- Pipe Engineer
- Pipe Worker
- Piping Technician
Related Jobs
- Air Conditioning Equipment Worker
- Carpenter
- Duct Worker
- Electrician
- Equipment Construction Management Technician