Plumber Job Openings 2-26-26

As of February 2026, the demand for plumbers in the United States is exceptionally high, driven by a combination of a growing need for infrastructure, aging systems, and a significant boom in AI data center construction. There are thousands of job openings nationwide for all skill levels, from helpers to master plumbers, with wages ranging from $25–$96+ per hour depending on location and experience. Business Insider +4 

Key Job Market Trends for 2026

AI Infrastructure Boom: Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang has highlighted that the surge in AI infrastructure is creating high-paying, "six-figure" jobs for skilled tradespeople, including plumbers, to build new data centers.

Strong Growth Outlook: Employment of plumbers is projected to grow 6% from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than the average for all occupations.

Job Openings: There are roughly 43,300 projected openings for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters each year. As of February 2026, over 19,000 jobs are listed on major job boards. Business Insider +4

Sample 2026 Job Openings & Salaries

Commercial Plumber (SC): $28 - $30/hour (5+ years experience).

Licensed Journeyman (CA/Nationwide): $90K - $190K+ per year.

Master Plumber (NM): $700 - $2,000 per day.

Residential Service Plumber (IN): $80,000 - $125,000 per year.

Journeyman Plumber (Various): $30 - $60/hour. ZipRecruiter +4

Top Locations & Hiring Companies

Key Locations: High demand is noted in Chicago, IL; Atlanta, GA; Huntsville, AL; and various locations in Texas, California, and Florida.

Hiring Companies: Comfort Systems USA, Roto-Rooter, All City Plumbing, and various regional service companies. ZipRecruiter +4

Required Skills and Experience

Experience: Positions range from entry-level helpers to experienced journeymen and master plumbers (typically 3-10 years).

Capabilities: Skills in commercial, residential, and service plumbing are highly sought after.

Certifications: Active licenses are often required for higher-paying positions. ZipRecruiter +4

Where to Find Jobs

Job Boards: Indeed, Glassdoor, and ZipRecruiter are listing thousands of open positions for Feb 2026.

Specialized Sites: PlumberJobsUSA.com and similar niche sites. Indeed Job Search +4

Plumbing job openings in 2026 are being significantly influenced by the expansion of AI infrastructure, which is driving a surge in demand for tradespeople to build and maintain data centers. Business Insider +2

Market Outlook & AI Impact

AI-Driven Growth: NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang recently highlighted that the AI boom is "unlocking" numerous six-figure jobs for plumbers, electricians, and construction workers needed to develop the physical infrastructure for AI data centers.

Projected Openings: The industry is expected to have approximately 43,300 openings annually through 2033, with employment growth projected at 6%, faster than the national average.

Job Security: While AI may automate certain white-collar tasks, it is expected to increase demand for blue-collar skilled trades that require physical presence and complex manual problem-solving. Business Insider +5

Current Job Openings (2026)

As of February 2026, major job platforms show active recruitment across the U.S.: 

Glassdoor: Over 19,000 active listings for plumbers in various specializations, including residential, commercial, and journeyman roles.

LinkedIn: More than 48,000 openings listed for plumbers, pipefitters, and plumbing engineers.

ZipRecruiter: Frequent listings for roles paying between $25 and $56 per hour, with top-tier specialized positions reaching higher ranges. Glassdoor +2

Regional Highlights & Compensation

Atlanta GA: High demand with approximately 154 specific plumber roles currently listed.

Chicago IL: Active hiring for commercial plumbers with 5–10 years of experience, offering rates around $28–$30/hr.

Salary Ranges: Average annual earnings for plumbers generally range from $40,670 to $105,150, though high-demand markets and specialized roles in AI infrastructure can exceed $100,000. Housecall Pro +4

Upcoming Hiring Events

Construction Job Fair: February 26, 2026, at the Dayton Convention Center (Dayton, OH).

King of Prussia Job Fair: March 10, 2026, at  (King of Prussia, PA)

https://www.google.com/search?q=us+plumber+job+openings+2026+google+ai

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