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Plumber

Plumbers play a critical role in ensuring the proper functioning of essential water, drainage, heating and sanitation systems. 

You will be responsible for maintaining and repairing plumbing fixtures, such as sinks, toilets and medical equipment that require water connections, to uphold hygiene standards and facilitate the smooth operation of health and care buildings and facilities. Plumbers play and essential role in keeping hospitals and other NHS buildings safe and working efficiently.  

Within the NHS Plumbers work includes; planned maintenance, repairing equipment that is broken or faulty, testing equipment and systems and improvements and installations.



Role Characteristics

  • Install and repair water, heating and drainage systems
  • Cut, shape and join pipes and fittings
  • Service gas and oil-fired central heating systems and radiators
  • Respond to emergency call-outs, like broken boilers or blocked drains
  • Fit weather-proof materials and flashings to roofs, chimneys and walls
  • Repair equipment that is broken or faulty, testing equipment and systems

Skills

  • Attention to detail
  • Operating equipment
  • Planning
  • Problem-solving
  • Working under pressure

Day in the life

Watch this video to find out about roles in Estate and Facilities.

Routes into this role

Here are some example routes that can lead into this role.

  • Maths and English skills
  • Apply directly
  • GCSEs
  • T-Level
  • An apprenticeship

How to become

To train as a Plumber, you will normally need at least 3 GCSEs (or equivalent) including maths, English and science. Employers may ask for some experience in construction or other practical work. An apprenticeship in an estates support role can provide this.
 
Employers expect Plumbers to have a qualification and experience in plumbing and/or heating and ventilation.

It is important to check your preferred course employer's entry requirements for guidance.

You'll need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card or equivalent to train and work on a construction site


Where can this role lead

No matter what role you start in or where you are in your career path, there are always opportunities to develop and progress in health and care.

Plumbers may be able to move into other estates service roles, or apply to train as Engineers. With experience, you could become a Team Leader, supervising the work of others. Or you could become a Manager, responsible for maintenance and repair services in health and care buildings. 

Location

  • Community Settings
  • Hospitals
  • Offices
  • Schools, colleges and universities
  • Care Homes
  • GP Practices
  • Prisons

Working hours

  • Weekdays
  • Part Time
  • Full Time
  • Casual Hours
  • Flexible Hours
  • Overtime

Leeds Opportunities

Arial photograph of buildings in Leeds A woman smiling wearing scrubs
BTECs, T-levels or A-levels
Plumbing Courses at the Leeds College of Building
Find out more about Plumbing courses at the Leeds College of Building.
Organisation
Leeds College of Building
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