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Plumber Helper Apprentice Jobs in Appleton, WI (NOW HIRING)

Plumber Helper Apprentice information

See Appleton, WI salary details

$10

$19

$30

How much do plumber helper apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for plumber helper apprentice in Appleton, WI is $19.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.96 and $22.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a plumber helper apprentice?

Plumber Helper Apprentices are entry-level workers who assist licensed plumbers with installing, repairing, and maintaining plumbing systems. They typically perform tasks such as carrying tools, cutting pipes, cleaning work areas, and helping set up fixtures under the supervision of experienced plumbers. This position is designed to provide hands-on training and practical experience, often as part of a formal apprenticeship program, to prepare workers for a career as a licensed plumber.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a plumber helper apprentice?

To thrive as a Plumber Helper Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of plumbing systems, physical stamina, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand and power tools, as well as adherence to safety protocols and possibly OSHA certification, is typically required. Strong attention to detail, willingness to learn, and effective communication skills help you excel in assisting licensed plumbers. These skills are essential for ensuring quality workmanship, safety, and career advancement within the plumbing trade.

What are some common challenges faced by a plumber helper apprentice during their first year on the job?

During the first year, Plumber Helper Apprentices often encounter challenges such as adapting to physically demanding work, learning to use specialized tools safely, and understanding plumbing codes and standards. Balancing on-the-job training with classroom instruction can also be demanding. However, working closely with experienced plumbers provides valuable mentorship and the opportunity to develop practical problem-solving skills in real-world situations.

What is the difference between Plumber Helper Apprentice vs Plumber Helper?

AspectPlumber Helper ApprenticePlumber Helper
CredentialsMay require basic OSHA training, on-the-job trainingTypically requires minimal formal credentials, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, residential and commercial plumbing projectsSimilar environments, often working alongside licensed plumbers
Employer & Industry UsageUsed as a training role within plumbing companies, often part of apprenticeship programsEntry-level position for assisting plumbers in daily tasks

In summary, a Plumber Helper Apprentice is a trainee gaining skills through an apprenticeship, often with some formal training, while a Plumber Helper is an entry-level worker assisting plumbers without formal apprenticeship programs. Both roles work in similar environments and serve as stepping stones in plumbing careers.

What are popular job titles related to Plumber Helper Apprentice jobs in Appleton, WI?

For Plumber Helper Apprentice jobs in Appleton, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Plumber Helper Apprentice jobs in Appleton, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Plumber Helper Apprentice jobs in Appleton, WI are:

What cities near Appleton, WI are hiring for Plumber Helper Apprentice jobs?

Cities near Appleton, WI with the most Plumber Helper Apprentice job openings:

Infographic showing various Plumber Helper Apprentice job openings in Appleton, WI as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,845 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Pre-Apprentice: All Locations

Bassett Mechanical

Kaukauna, WI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Bassett Mechanical rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

28th of 283 rated repair and maintenance companies


Job description

Bassett Mechanical is a 3rd generation family-owned company that provides custom-built industrial refrigeration, HVAC, plumbing, metal fabricating and preventative maintenance service solutions to customers throughout the United States and the world. It is not only a great place to grow and thrive in your career. It is a place to truly belong. As a member of the Bassett Mechanical Team, you'll enjoy a competitive compensation and benefits package and many professional growth opportunities. From the moment you're hired, to the day you retire, you're a part of our Bassett Mechanical Team.
Pre-apprenticeship is a program or set of services designed to prepare individuals to enter and succeed in a Registered Apprenticeship program. A pre-apprenticeship program, by definition, has a documented partnership with at least one Registered Apprenticeship program. Preapprenticeships help individuals meet the entry requirements for apprenticeship programs and ensure they are prepared to be successful in their apprenticeship.
Union Affiliations and Job Opportunities
Plumbers and Steamfitters
  • Fox Cities Area - Local 400 - http://www.ua400.org/
  • Western Wis Area - Local 434 - http://www.ualocal434.org/
  • South Central/South Eastern Area - Local 601 - https://steam601.org/

Service Technicians
Field Steamfitters (system installations)
Shop Fabricators (large fabrications - piping, pressure vessels)
Plumbers (commercial and industrial, not residential)
Sheet Metal Local 18
(http://smwlu18.org/)
Field Sheet Metal (system installations)
Shop Fabricators (small and large fabrications, ductwork, etc.)
Apprenticeships:
  • Individual is hired as a pre-apprentice for a 1-2 year timeframe to assess their mechanical aptitude and work ethic. If they are interested in pursuing the trades and meet our criteria, they would be indentured into a 5 year apprenticeship program through the State of Wisconsin.
  • Candidates are required to take and pass an Accuplacer test at local technical college for reading and math in order to be eligible. They will also need a high school diploma and transcript.
  • All apprenticeship programs have a great deal of math involved. If someone has struggled with math throughout their previous education (high school or college), they will probably struggle with this through their apprenticeship.
  • During their apprenticeship, employees go to school during a normal school year (September to May). Plumbers and Steamfitter apprentices go for a full day every other week for a span of 4 years. Local 18 apprentices go for a full day every week for a span of 2 years. Apprentices are paid their wages for the days they spend in class. They are then able to bring back what they learn and apply it in their work environment.
  • There are also night classes that are required throughout the 5 year program such as OSHA 30 hour, etc. The classes for night school are often paid for by the union, but the employee is not paid wages for any night classes. For Local 18, the night school classes are only paid for by the union if the student has 100% attendance.
  • During the apprenticeship, there is also a work hour requirement for on-the-job training and experience. Apprentices usually do not have trouble meeting this requirement since they're typically working at Bassett throughout the full apprenticeship.

OMS (Organization Management Services) is a great organization to reach out to for more information on the various apprenticeships available. They are an organization that provides coordination and administration of association activities for unionized construction contractors. Their website (http://www.omswi.com/) contains information on the various apprenticeships and also information on some of the 1st steps to take in that direction.

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