Thornton & Grooms – Plumbing Apprentice
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Michigan / Thornton & Grooms – Plumbing Apprentice
Plumbing Apprentice
Job Description
Thornton & Grooms is seeking a motivated Plumbing Apprentice to join its residential plumbing team in Farmington Hills, Michigan. This apprenticeship is designed for individuals who want to build a long-term career in the plumbing trade while receiving hands-on training in real residential environments. No extensive prior experience is required, making this an excellent opportunity for entry-level candidates who are eager to learn, develop mechanical skills, and grow within a well-established service company.
As a Plumbing Apprentice at Thornton & Grooms, you will assist licensed plumbers with the installation, maintenance, and repair of residential plumbing systems. The role focuses on delivering high-quality workmanship while strictly following local plumbing codes, safety standards, and company quality expectations. Apprentices are trained to work efficiently, safely, and professionally in customers’ homes, learning both technical plumbing skills and customer-service best practices.
This position provides broad exposure to modern plumbing techniques and equipment. Apprentices will be cross-trained in advanced services such as drain jetting, pipe lining, and internal pipe coatings, giving them experience beyond basic fixture installation. You will also assist with excavation-related work, floor breaks, and large equipment installations such as tankless water heaters, filtration systems, and sump pump backups. Over time, apprentices are expected to develop confidence working independently under supervision and gain a clear understanding of residential plumbing systems from start to finish.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist with installation and repair of residential plumbing fixtures and systems
- Support drain jetting operations using high-pressure water equipment
- Assist with pipe lining and coating methods used to repair underground pipes
- Help perform floor breaks using jackhammers to access damaged piping
- Participate in large-scale plumbing installations such as repipes, water heaters, and filtration systems
- Assist with excavation work to expose and replace underground plumbing lines
- Work safely around loud tools, machinery, and construction equipment
- Operate in confined spaces including crawl spaces, basements, and attics
- Learn to identify plumbing tools, materials, and parts commonly used on the job
Training, Tools & Technology
Apprentices will receive structured on-the-job training while working alongside experienced plumbers. Within the first 30 days, apprentices are expected to become proficient in using ServiceTitan, Thornton & Grooms’ mobile dispatch and point-of-sale system. You will also be responsible for registering for a Michigan plumbing apprentice card and learning how to evaluate job scopes, materials, and installation requirements. Mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn are critical for success in this role.
Work Environment & Qualifications
This role involves regular exposure to dirt, dust, mud, and construction debris. Apprentices must be comfortable working in physically demanding conditions and confined spaces. Ideal candidates have zero to two years of experience in the plumbing trade, possess basic mechanical knowledge, and demonstrate reliability, professionalism, and a strong work ethic. Thornton & Grooms provides hands-on training designed to prepare apprentices for long-term advancement in the plumbing profession.
Location
Farmington Hills, Michigan
Apprenticeship Cost & Career Outlook
Thornton & Grooms – Plumbing Apprentice 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.