Plumbing Apprentice – Mr. Rooter of Charleston
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in South Carolina / Plumbing Apprentice – Mr. Rooter of Charleston
Plumbing Apprentice – Mr. Rooter of Charleston (North Charleston, SC)
Program Information
The Plumbing Apprentice program at Mr. Rooter of Charleston is a registered apprenticeship designed to prepare individuals for a career in residential and light commercial service plumbing. Based in North Charleston, South Carolina, the program follows an earn-while-you-learn model that combines paid field experience with structured technical instruction. Apprentices work under the supervision of licensed plumbers while developing the skills required for long-term advancement in the plumbing trade.
This apprenticeship is centered on service-based plumbing work commonly found throughout the Charleston and Lowcountry region. Training emphasizes customer-facing service, diagnostics, and repair rather than large-scale new construction, making it well-suited for individuals interested in residential and commercial service environments.
Plumbing Apprenticeship Training Scope
Apprentices assist licensed plumbers with the installation, maintenance, and repair of plumbing systems in residential and commercial settings. Early training focuses on jobsite safety, tool usage, and basic service tasks such as drain cleaning and minor plumbing repairs. Apprentices learn to identify plumbing system components, recognize equipment issues, and support repair and replacement work.
As skills develop, apprentices gain experience troubleshooting plumbing malfunctions, evaluating system conditions, and assisting with service recommendations. Training includes identifying materials needed for repair projects, documenting work performed, and supporting accurate job costing and work order descriptions.
Technical Instruction & Learning Platform
The program includes approximately twelve months of related technical instruction delivered through a structured learning platform. Apprentices complete three to four hours per week of guided coursework while continuing hands-on field training. Instruction reinforces plumbing system fundamentals, safety practices, diagnostics, and preparation for licensing requirements.
Apprentices receive tutoring support to help prepare for required examinations and are expected to maintain progress in both classroom and field components of the program.
Service Plumbing & Professional Skills
Because service plumbing involves direct interaction with customers, apprentices develop professional communication and customer service skills alongside technical training. Apprentices learn how service requests are evaluated, how repair options are explained, and how established procedures are followed to ensure consistency, safety, and quality.
Daily work requires the use of tablet-based technology for scheduling, documentation, and communication. Apprentices are expected to maintain a professional appearance, follow safety protocols, and work effectively as part of a team while also developing independence on assigned tasks.
Program Length & Advancement
The Plumbing Apprentice program is structured around approximately one year of related technical instruction combined with ongoing on-the-job training. Apprentices advance by completing required coursework, demonstrating skill development in the field, and maintaining eligibility for apprentice licensure. Compensation is earned throughout the program, with opportunities for advancement, incentive-based pay, and increased responsibility as skills progress.
Program Requirements
- Apprentice plumbing license or eligibility to obtain one
- Physical ability to perform plumbing service work
- Commitment to completing both field training and weekly technical instruction
- Ability to navigate tablet-based technology
- Professional attitude and willingness to learn
- Authorization to work in the United States
Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship, participants are prepared to continue advancing toward journeyman licensure and long-term employment in service plumbing. The program supports career growth through continued training, professional development opportunities, and advancement within the company.
Apprenticeship Cost & Career Outlook
Plumbing Apprentice – Mr. Rooter of Charleston is a Registered Apprenticeship Program — meaning you can earn while you learn through paid on-the-job training in Plumbing.
- Paid on-the-job training with step increases as you progress
- Classroom / technical instruction is part of the program structure
- Training costs are often low — but you may still pay for tools, books, or fees
- Credential earned at completion is recognized by employers in the industry
Registered apprenticeships are overseen by the U.S. Department of Labor or a State Apprenticeship Agency. Because these programs aren’t traditional colleges, College Scorecard tuition and earnings data usually doesn’t apply.
Step-by-Step Career Guides
The programs and apprenticeships listed on this page relate to hands-on skilled trades. Explore the guides below to learn about training paths, licensing, salaries, and what to expect in each career field.