Licensed Plumber or 4th or 5th year Plumber Apprentice

As per Government of Canada's Job Bank, plumbers (NOC 72300) earn $25.00 per hour at entry-level, $36.00 median, and up to $48.00 high across Canada as of January 2026. This equates to an annual median salary of $74,880 based on 40 hours/week. Overtime rates are 1.5 times the regular rate after 40 hours in most provinces.

Foreign plumbers require a Temporary Foreign Worker Program work permit with a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from ESDC, valid up to 2 years, or eligibility under Express Entry Federal Skilled Trades Program with 2 years experience and CLB 5 language score. Processing takes 12 weeks on average. Provincial Nominee Programs in Alberta and BC prioritize plumbers with job offers paying at least $30/hour.

A high school diploma is required, followed by a 4-year apprenticeship with 8,160 hours of on-the-job training and 672 hours of technical training. At least 1 year of experience is needed for entry-level journeyperson roles. Red Seal certification is available after passing the interprovincial exam.

Submit high school diploma or GED, proof of being at least 16 years old, resume with any related experience, and valid government ID. Safety certifications like WHMIS and Fall Protection are required before starting. Applications go through provincial apprenticeship offices with $40-70 fees.