Hiring the right plumber to join your team is essential to any large-scale commercial construction project, residential development, or for handling a series of small-scale renovations. You need experienced, knowledgeable, and licensed professionals to ensure your project runs smoothly and meets all the necessary safety and building code standards, even if you only need to hire them for one project. You will want to find the best of the best, which is why we have compiled our expert hiring tips to help you select the best licensed plumbers for your next project in New England.
1. Prioritize Candidates With Proof of Licensed Plumber Status
In New England, licensed plumbers are required to complete rigorous training and apprenticeships, gaining the expertise needed to handle a wide range of plumbing systems. Whether it’s installation, repair, or maintenance, licensed plumbers bring years of on-the-job experience, making them a safer and more reliable choice for your project.
You’ve got your eye on a candidate who checks all the boxes. The first step in hiring a licensed plumber is to verify that their credentials are up to date. Always ask for proof of their licensed plumber status and cross-check it with the state’s licensing board to ensure its validity. Additionally, make sure that your licensed plumbers have the necessary insurance. This typically includes general liability insurance and worker’s compensation. Insurance is critical because it protects you as the employer from any liability in case of accidents or damage on the job site.
In New England, it is required that plumbers carry valid licenses issued by local or state governing bodies. In Massachusetts, for example, the Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters oversees the licensing process.
2. Inquire About a Candidate’s Reputation
Reputation matters! A strong reputation is often a reflection of the quality of work a licensed plumber delivers. To get an idea of a plumber’s work ethic and reliability, ask for references from previous clients or employers. A reputable licensed plumber should have no problem providing you with a list of satisfied customers.
Additionally, check online reviews and ratings from reputable sources such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB) or Google Reviews. This can give you valuable insight into how well a plumber performs on the job and how they handle customer relations.
Inquire about the services your licensed plumbers offer and whether they have expertise in areas specific to your needs. For example, if your job requires the installation of a complex fire suppression system, ensure that your plumber has experience with these systems and can handle the intricacies involved. A well-rounded, licensed plumber with a broad skill set can often tackle multiple facets of your project, potentially saving time and reducing the need to hire additional contractors.
3. Tap Into Specialized Networks, Communities or Staffing Companies
While general job boards and trade schools are valuable resources, they often don’t provide access to the specialized communities where licensed plumbers truly network. Plumbing professionals frequently connect within forums and organizations that are more tailored to the industry.
Working with a New England construction staffing company like Skilled Trades Partners can give you direct access to these professional networks. By leveraging their relationships and industry expertise, they can connect you with experienced plumbers who may not be actively looking for a job but are open to new opportunities. Engaging with local trade shows, seminars, and networking events can further build these relationships. These candidates are not only highly qualified but also familiar with the specific nuances of the New England plumbing industry, making them ideal additions to your team.
4. Leverage Apprenticeship Programs for Long-Term Hiring Potential
Hiring licensed plumbers with years of experience is crucial, but what about those emerging talents who are just a step away from earning their full licenses? New England is home to some of the best plumbing apprenticeship programs in the country, and by establishing relationships with training centers or trade schools, you can recruit candidates who are nearing licensure but have already spent years learning under the supervision of skilled mentors.
While they may not yet hold their official license, these apprentices bring fresh perspectives, up-to-date training, and the latest techniques to the table. Plus, bringing them into your network early allows you to grow relationships with potential future hires and reduce your time to hire when the job market tightens.
5. Evaluate Their Problem-Solving Abilities and Work Ethic
While technical knowledge is essential for licensed plumbers, problem-solving ability and work ethic are often overlooked but are key indicators of a plumber’s value on the job. In fast-paced construction environments, the ability to think on one’s feet, troubleshoot issues as they arise, and collaborate effectively with other contractors can make or break the success of your project.
During interviews, ask your candidates to walk you through past scenarios where they encountered unexpected challenges. Did they take the initiative in solving problems? Did they work well under pressure? You’re looking for individuals who can not only complete their tasks but also take ownership of unforeseen issues and keep the project moving forward without major delays.
6. Stay Ahead of Industry Trends and Technology
As with any trade, the plumbing industry is constantly evolving. From advanced leak detection technology to more energy-efficient plumbing systems, licensed plumbers who stay updated on the latest innovations bring added value to your team. Recruiting professionals who embrace modern technologies can significantly enhance the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of your projects.
Encourage candidates to share their experiences with the latest plumbing tools, software, or systems. Plumbers who are not only skilled but also tech-savvy can offer new solutions and keep your job site on the cutting edge of industry standards.
7. Look Beyond Salary – Sell the Opportunity
In New England’s competitive job market, salary alone isn’t enough to attract top-tier licensed plumbers. High-quality candidates are looking for more than just a paycheck—they want to work with respected employers, have growth opportunities, and be part of projects that challenge their skills.
When discussing compensation, be sure to highlight benefits beyond salary: the opportunity to work on prestigious projects, mentorship and training opportunities, potential for advancement, and a positive work culture. Offering competitive benefits like healthcare, paid time off, and retirement contributions can also make your job offer more attractive to the best talent.
8. Use Job Trials or Temporary Contracts to Test Compatibility
If you’re unsure about a licensed plumber’s fit for your project or team, consider offering them a trial period or a temporary contract. This allows you to evaluate their skills and compatibility with your team before making a full-time hire. Additionally, a trial gives the plumber the chance to see how they handle your job site’s specific needs, helping both parties make an informed decision.
During this period, pay attention to punctuality, quality of work, teamwork, and their ability to follow instructions. A trial also helps build rapport, ensuring a smoother transition if you choose to offer them a permanent position.
What Should You Do Next?
Hiring the best licensed plumbers for your New England job site requires careful consideration and planning. By focusing on factors like valid licensing, relevant experience, a strong reputation, and a commitment to local codes, you can hire skilled professionals who will meet the demands of your project. At the end of the day, the right licensed plumber can make all the difference in the quality, efficiency, and success of your construction project.
Taking the time to vet your plumbers thoroughly is a step toward securing reliable, high-quality services for your job site. With the right team of licensed plumbers, you can avoid unnecessary headaches, costly mistakes, and delays, making your project a smooth success.
If you’re ready to hire licensed plumbers, we’re here to help. Reach out to Skilled Trades Partners – we’ll land you the best talent for your next project or job site!