Electrician vs. Plumber Careers Overview

Making a career choice is never easy, especially as you navigate the landscape of skilled trades. You’ll need to consider factors such as education requirements, salary expectations, and career paths—but you also need to glance at the outlook a specific job role will have in the next decades. After all, the job landscape is moving faster than ever. 

Fortunately, if you are undecided between becoming an electrician or a plumber, you can rest assured that these roles have a bright future ahead. Nonetheless, selecting the career path that best aligns with your interests, talent, and professional goals is essential. 

This guide by the National Technical Institute aims to provide you with the insights you need to make an informed choice. Let’s dive in. 

Electrician Vs Plumber: Job Description And Duties

Electrician 

Electricians are skilled trade professionals responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems. Their goal is to ensure that electricity flows efficiently and safely across a range of structures. They can work indoors or outdoors, covering locations such as private homes, commercial buildings, large-scale industrial sites. 

Electricians play a vital role in keeping electrical infrastructure functioning and up to date with the latest innovations and safety standards. 

Electrician Job Duties

• Installing, repairing, and maintaining electrical systems in compliance with building codes and regulations.
• Diagnosing issues with electrical systems and their components, often using specialized testing devices.
• Inspecting components like transformers and circuit breakers
• Installing and maintaining wiring, lighting, and control systems
• Interpreting technical diagrams and blueprints to guide installation and construction partners.
• Replacing or repairing wiring, equipment, or fixtures as needed.
• Using tools such as voltmeters, ammeters, and cable testers.

Plumber 

Plumbers are also trade professionals, but they focus on designing and maintaining systems designed to move water, gases, and waste in and out of buildings. Their role involves installing, repairing, and maintaining piping, fixtures, and appliances, such as sanitation and heating components (i.e.: boilers). Plumbers may work on construction sites and in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.

Plumber Job Duties

• Cutting and installing pipes or tubes that are suitable for carrying water and other liquids.
• Developing or interpreting blueprints for plumbing systems
• Installing and maintaining cooling and heating systems, like radiators and air conditioners.
• Planning and maintaining water supply, waste, and sanitary systems
• Identifying and repairing problems with supply lines, such as leaks or breaks.
• Repairing appliances and fixtures, such as sinks and washing machines
• Staying updated on the latest plumbing appliances and systems.
• Use specialized plumbing tools like pipe wrenches, cutters, and plungers

Plumber Vs Electrician: Education And Training 

Electrician

To become an electrician, you will need a mix of formal education and hand-on training, which can be obtained through internships or work experience. Most states require a high school diploma or GED, followed by an electrician apprenticeship to gain practical experience.

Industry requirements include:

• High school diploma or GED 
• State-approved apprenticeship (2-5 years)
• Licensing exam, which is determined by the state
• Technical college courses in electrical technology (optional)
• Industry certifications like OSHA or NCCER Electrical

Plumber

The academic journey to become a plumber is similar to that of electricians. You will need basic academic requirements followed by extensive work experience to gain technical knowledge. To begin your plumbing career, you may also choose specialized training courses that cover system installation, codes, and safety, with licensing needed in most states.

Industry requirements include:

• High school diploma or GED 
• State-recognized plumbing apprenticeship (4-5 years)
• Licensing exam
• Community college or trade school plumbing courses (optional)
• Certifications such as OSHA or NCCER Plumbing

Plumber Vs Electrician: Salary Expectations

Electrician 

In recent years, the shortage of skilled trades professionals has driven an increase in electrical salary expectations. As an electrician you can look forward to competitive wages and steady demand across the U.S. But keep in mind that salaries can fluctuate depending on factors like experience, industry, and location.

A few statistics to keep in mind include:

• National average annual salary: $62,350
• Projected job growth: 11% (2023 to 2033), much faster than average
• Metro areas and specialized roles typically pay higher wages

Plumber

Plumbers have similar salary expectations, but the job outlook can differ based on geographic location, experience, and the type of employer. 

Key numbers include:

• National average annual salary: $62,970 
• Projected job growth: 6% (2023 to 2033), faster than average
• Commercial positions often offer higher pay

Electrician Vs Plumber: Career Development And Industries Available

Electrician

Electricians have plenty of opportunities to advance their careers. While job opportunities are available at every level, those looking for a specialized role can gain experience and training in particular sectors, developing expertise in high-demand niches. 

Some examples include:

• Installation and maintenance of commercial or residential systems
• Industrial electrical systems development and automation.
• Installation and maintenance of renewable energy and solar panel systems
• Energy-efficient, low-voltage, and smart home technology 
• Power grid and utility infrastructure 
• Security and fire alarm systems 

Plumber

The career progression is similar for plumbers. You may need to gain additional licensing or technical certifications to access specialized roles.

Examples of in-demand niches include: 

• Medical gas and healthcare facility systems 
• Sustainable plumbing and water conservation 
• Pipefitter and steamfitter roles (usually in industrial settings)
• Commercial plumbing services
• Residential plumbing or renovation projects
• Inspection or compliance roles

Other Factors to Consider

When choosing between a career as an electrician or a plumber, it’s important to think beyond salary and job outlook. Some factors that may influence your decision include:

• Working conditions: Both roles involve physical work in a wide range of environments. Electricians often work at heights while plumbers may work in damp or confined spaces.
• Work-life balance: Full-time business hours are common. Both trades sometimes require overtime, evening work, or emergency calls—especially because of urgent repairs or construction projects.
• Risk level: Both professions carry safety risks. Electricians’ risks include live wires and electrical shocks, while plumbers may face hazardous waste or exposure to chemicals.
• Job Variation: Both trades come with routine maintenance tasks, but they also involve challenging projects and problem-solving.

Find Guidance at National Technical Institute 

If you are considering a skilled trades career, it is important to take into account all variables and make an informed choice. At the National Technical Institute, our specialized team offers hands-on electrical technician training and plumbing technician training. These courses offer expert guidance to help you succeed in your chosen career path, be it as an electrician or plumber. Take the next step toward a rewarding future—contact us today to learn more about our programs and how to get started!