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Backflow Plumber Jobs in Milwaukee, WI (NOW HIRING)

Meter Worker

Racine, WI · On-site

$60K - $84K/yr

Installs and removes backflow preventer boxes and hydrant meters. Enters confined spaces to test ... plumbing is preferred. Wisconsin DNR Waterworks Operator Distribution license certification is ...

Certifications in cross connect or backflow preferred. * Low pressure boiler license is required. * Strong hands-on experience with a wide variety of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, plumbing ...

... connect or backflow preferred.Low pressure boiler license is required.Strong hands-on experience with a wide variety of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, plumbing, food service and ...

Certifications in cross connect or backflow preferred. * Low pressure boiler license is required. * Strong hands-on experience with a wide variety of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, plumbing ...

Backflow Plumber information

See Milwaukee, WI salary details

$17

$27

$38

How much do backflow plumber jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for backflow plumber in Milwaukee, WI is $27.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.94 and $30.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a backflow plumber?

Backflow plumbers are specialized plumbing professionals who install, test, repair, and maintain backflow prevention devices in water systems. These devices are crucial for preventing contaminated water from flowing backward into clean water supplies, protecting public health. Backflow plumbers are often certified and follow local regulations to ensure that water systems remain safe and compliant with codes. They may work in residential, commercial, or industrial settings, and are trained to identify potential risks of cross-connections and contamination.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a backflow plumber, and why are they important?

A Backflow Plumber must possess strong plumbing skills, knowledge of water systems, and typically hold relevant licenses or certifications in backflow prevention. Familiarity with backflow testing equipment, plumbing codes, and maintenance management systems is commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong customer service skills help set top professionals apart. These competencies ensure safe water supply, compliance with regulations, and reliable service to clients.

What are some common challenges faced by backflow plumbers on the job?

Backflow plumbers often encounter challenges such as diagnosing complex backflow prevention systems, dealing with outdated or non-compliant installations, and accessing hard-to-reach piping in commercial or industrial settings. They must stay up-to-date with local codes and regulations, as backflow prevention is highly regulated to ensure water safety. Additionally, backflow plumbers frequently coordinate with building owners, facility managers, and inspectors to schedule testing and repairs, requiring strong communication and problem-solving skills.

What is the difference between Backflow Plumber vs Pipefitter?

AspectBackflow PlumberPipefitter
CertificationsBackflow Prevention Certification, State Plumbing LicensePipefitting Certification, State Plumbing License
Work EnvironmentResidential, commercial plumbing systems, backflow prevention devicesIndustrial, commercial, and large-scale plumbing and piping systems
Industry UsageWater supply systems, backflow preventionManufacturing plants, HVAC, industrial piping

Backflow Plumbers and Pipefitters both require plumbing licenses and work with piping systems. However, Backflow Plumbers specialize in preventing contaminated water from reversing flow in potable water systems, focusing on backflow prevention devices. Pipefitters work on larger, industrial piping systems, often in manufacturing or HVAC settings. While their skills overlap, their primary roles and environments differ significantly.

Do you need to be a licensed plumber to install a backflow preventer?

Backflow plumbers are typically required to be licensed or certified to install backflow preventers, as these devices are critical for water safety and must meet local codes. Licensing ensures proper installation, testing, and maintenance of backflow prevention devices, which often involves specialized knowledge and tools. Regulations vary by location, so it is important to check local requirements for backflow preventer installation.

What are popular job titles related to Backflow Plumber jobs in Milwaukee, WI?

For Backflow Plumber jobs in Milwaukee, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Backflow Plumber jobs in Milwaukee, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Backflow Plumber jobs in Milwaukee, WI are:

Infographic showing various Backflow Plumber job openings in Milwaukee, WI as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,952 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

$60K - $84K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Job Description We strongly encourage City of Racine residents to apply. We're committed to building a workforce that reflects and understands the community we serve. City residents will earn a 4% differential on top of the hourly pay range.

Learn more and apply today. Purpose of Position The purpose of this position is to install and maintain water meters in the distribution system, test water meters, accurately read and record water meter readings, inspect water service extensions and repairs, investigate irregular water consumption, collect distribution water samples, replace water meters, perform turn-offs of services for repair, and do utility locates. Starting pay range is $28.90 - $31.45 Essential Duties Tests to determine cause of water meter malfunctions

Disassembles, cleans, adjusts, and repairs water meters -both in the meter shop and on customers' premises when practical. Changes and retro fits water meters according to meter department procedures. Performs home cross connection control and lead service line inspections and records data for same.

Takes inventory of meter department stock/supplies; organizes and delivers scrap metal to scrap yard. Stocks meter cage with delivered meters and parts. Fills tanker trucks and trailers; keeps seasonal water meters, backflow preventer boxes, and wire baskets in orderly placement.

Reads, collects, and downloads meter data using a hand-held device and laptop computer; Responsible to charge devices overnight and upload all necessary route data. Investigates customer complaints, such as high-water consumption, water pressure, and water quality. Investigates potential service line or water main breaks.

Collects distribution bacteriological and other regulatory-mandated samples, and performs field chlorine and temperature analyses. Locates services and mains. Installs and removes backflow preventer boxes and hydrant meters.

Enters confined spaces to test, inspect, or replace meters. Works cooperatively with other Utility departments and staff to respond appropriately to emergency situations, or assist on projects in the plant or distribution system. Enters data to computerized record files; prepares notifications to customers.

Adheres to all safety procedures as defined by the Utility work and safety rules. Qualifications Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required Strong mechanical skills verifiable by past work experience. Skill in analyzing, diagnosing, correcting mechanical failures and defects.

Skill in using specialized tools and equipment common to maintenance functions. Minimum Qualifications High School Diploma, A minimum of 2 years of experience in a municipal water utility doing meter or field service work involving water service lateral installations; or 2 years of experience disassembling, adjusting, testing, and/or repairing meters is preferred; or a combination of equivalent experience that provides equivalent knowledge, skills, and abilities. Valid state-issued motor vehicle operator's license is required.

Preferred Qualifications Mechanical training and certification in electro-mechanical technology, automotive maintenance, pipefitting, or plumbing is preferred. Wisconsin DNR Waterworks Operator Distribution license certification is desired. Cross-Connection Control Device Tester license certification is desired.

Computer application skills using Microsoft Office and GIS software are a plus. Supplemental Information Language and Interpersonal Communication. Ability to utilize, interpret, and apply a variety of advisory data and information such as blueprints, line diagrams, meters, gauges, operation and maintenance manuals, charts, and graphs.

Ability to communicate orally and in writing with varied and diverse contacts, such as Utility personnel, general public customers, contractors, and regulatory personnel; also effectively correlate customer complaints and disseminate Utility information. Ability to communicate and follow instructions both orally and in writing; and perform duties with a minimum of direct supervision. Ability to maintain effective and professional working relationships with fellow employees and customers.

Works effectively with the public as a positive representative of the Water Utility. Judgement and Situational Reasoning Ability to apply rational and ethical judgment, tact, courtesy, and diplomacy when dealing with Utility personnel, public customers, contractors, and city representatives. Physical Demands of the Position Must have good dexterity with ability to hand operate tools and instruments, some requiring complex and rapid adjustments in coordination with eye movement.

Ability to exert strenuous physical effort to lift and carry objects up to 50 lbs, typically involving some combination of stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, turning/torqueing valves and apparatus, climbing steps and ladders, and extensive walking. Must be able to enter and work in confined spaces. Must not have a fear of heights (work off of ladders and scaffolds).

Ability to recognize and identify degrees of similarity or difference between characteristics of color, sound, and odor. Environmental/Work Conditions Ability to work under moderately safe and comfortable conditions where exposure to environmental factors such as toxic agents may cause some discomfort and where there is a risk of minor injury. Ability to work in year-round Wisconsin outdoor weather conditions.

Ability to work to exposure to loud noises, damp/wet conditions, narrow stairways, low ceilings, cramped and dirty basements, and unpleasant odors. Equipment Used Computers, calculators, telephones, office equipment, electronic instrumentation, personal protective equipment, vehicles (small and large vans), radios, meter reading devices, hand tools, power tools, tripod, hoists, instrumentation, and miscellaneous tools and equipment. Software technology used may include Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, Time Management Software (TMS), Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping; Other software may be applied.

The City of Racine is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.