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Backflow Tester Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

License to perform testing of backflow preventers * KY Journeyman Plumbing license * Licensed through Kentucky Gas Association to perform annual gas line inspections. * basic computer skills ...

Recognize the limits of in-house plumbing scope -- work involving main water service, backflow ... Use a non-contact voltage tester and multimeter to verify power is de-energized before opening any ...

Backflow Tester information

See Kentucky salary details

$9

$20

$34

How much do backflow tester jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for backflow tester in Kentucky is $20.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.27 and $23.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a backflow tester?

A Backflow Tester is a certified professional who inspects, tests, and repairs backflow prevention devices in plumbing systems. These devices prevent contaminated water from flowing back into the clean water supply, protecting public health. Backflow Testers ensure that these systems are functioning correctly and comply with local and state regulations. They often work with residential, commercial, and municipal water systems, and must stay up-to-date with certification requirements and testing procedures.

What does a backflow tester do?

The job duties of a backflow tester involve ensuring that a potable water supply system remains free of contaminants. Your responsibilities as a backflow tester include taking steps to test backflow prevention systems and identify plumbing systems where there is a danger of dirty water entering into a pressurized potable water system. Backflow is possible when there is a cross-connection between potable and non-potable systems. In addition to testing and creating a results record for existing backflow protection components, you visit backflow protection installation sites to ensure that the new equipment functions properly and meets assembly standards.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a backflow tester?

To thrive as a Backflow Tester, you need knowledge of plumbing systems, strong diagnostic abilities, and a backflow prevention certification, usually obtained through state or local licensing authorities. Familiarity with backflow testing equipment, reading technical schematics, and completing digital test reports are essential technical skills. Attention to detail, customer service orientation, and strong problem-solving abilities help you excel when working with clients and ensuring compliance. These skills and qualities are crucial for accurately identifying hazards, meeting regulatory standards, and protecting public health.

What challenges do backflow testers face, and how can they prepare for them?

Backflow Testers often encounter challenges such as working in confined spaces, dealing with aging or poorly maintained plumbing systems, and handling unexpected water pressure fluctuations. To prepare, it's helpful to stay current with local codes and regulations, regularly calibrate and maintain testing equipment, and practice strong communication with property owners or facility managers. Building a routine for thorough documentation and reporting also helps ensure compliance and reduces errors during inspections.

What is the difference between Backflow Tester vs Backflow Prevention Installer?

AspectBackflow TesterBackflow Prevention Installer
CertificationsCross-Connection Control Tester Certification, State licensingBackflow Prevention Assembly Tester Certification, State licensing
Work EnvironmentInspecting and testing backflow prevention devices in various locationsInstalling and repairing backflow prevention devices on plumbing systems
Industry UsageTesting and certifying devices for complianceInstalling and maintaining devices in new or existing systems

Backflow Testers focus on inspecting and testing backflow prevention devices to ensure they function correctly, often requiring specific certifications. Backflow Prevention Installers are responsible for installing and repairing these devices. While both roles work within the same industry and may share certifications, their primary tasks differ: testing versus installation.

What are the most commonly searched types of Backflow Tester jobs in Kentucky?

The most popular types of Backflow Tester jobs in Kentucky are:

What are popular job titles related to Backflow Tester jobs in Kentucky?

For Backflow Tester jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Backflow Tester jobs in Kentucky look for?

The top searched job categories for Backflow Tester jobs in Kentucky are:

Infographic showing various Backflow Tester job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,653 per year, or $21 per hour.

Supervisor, Plumbing

Highland Heights, KY • On-site


Northern Kentucky University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

312th of 627 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Respectful managers


Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Position Title:
Supervisor, Plumbing
Position Type:
Regular
About the Role:
To provide customer service to the University community by ensuring a clean, sanitary, and inviting environment. Supervises and performs repairs, installation, and modifications of piping, plumbing fixtures, equipment, and facilities. Is responsible for a variety of systems and equipment that affect the University's operations; such as sprinkler lines, gas lines, sewage disposal, etc.
  • Plans, prioritizes, assigns, supervises, reviews, and participates in the work of staff responsible for the plumbing, gas, and domestic water
  • Estimate the time and material cost of work orders and projects. Shares supported data with the superintendent. Order and purchase materials according to established guidelines and within budgetary constraints. Maintain material inventories; maintain service, repair, and other records as required.
  • Establishes preventive maintenance schedules; recommends priorities of repair projects; responds to after-hours emergency situations as directed.
  • Safely use all tools of the plumbing trade including but not limited to: soldering and brazing equipment, cutting torches, pipe wrenches, electric drills, drill presses, pipe threaders, sewer machines, and power snakes.
  • Install, service, maintain, regulate, repair, and replace plumbing lines, fixtures, fittings, and equipment to comply with the uniform plumbing code, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), other requirements, and state and local guidelines.
  • Read and interpret blueprints, shop drawings, sketches, manuals, diagrams, and contract specifications. Provide feedback on projects before and during construction, and update files and plans to reflect changes in plumbing.
  • Trains or coordinates training in plumbing maintenance and safety methods, procedures, and techniques.
  • 3-5 years of management experience

Candidate must possess:
  • Valid driver's license;
  • License to perform testing of backflow preventers
  • KY Journeyman Plumbing license
  • Licensed through Kentucky Gas Association to perform annual gas line inspections.
  • basic computer skills; proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel
  • ability to communicate clearly both orally and written;
  • ability to work with various types of related equipment including, but not limited to, chemicals, parts washer, welders, metal lathe, cutters, grinders, chop saws, concrete coring machines, pipe threaders, drill presses, pressure jetting machines, pumps, hydraulic jacks, hot water tanks, etc.;
  • ability to stand, walk, stoop, reach, pull, kneel, push, work in confined spaces, and perform work above head level for extended periods of time;
  • perform medium heavy and maximum physical exertion and lift up to 50 lbs or more on a regular basis.

Posted Salary:
Work Environment & Physical Demands:


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