Studies drawings and specifications to determine the layout of plumbing systems and materials required; sets out and installs hot and cold water systems and associated equipment; installs water-based fire protection systems, including fire hydrants, hose reels and sprinkler systems; designs and installs sanitary plumbing and water supply systems, discharge pipes and sanitary fixtures.

• Works both outdoors and indoors in almost all weather conditions – task and site dependent. May work at height and in awkward or confined spaces.
• Work sites are frequently wet, dirty and smelly and may be contaminated with sewerage.
• Protective clothing may be utilised as appropriate.

• The physical demand is medium to heavy.
• Standing is frequently required. Sitting is not required.
• Walking is frequently required about the worksite to move equipment, supplies and carry out various tasks.
• Stretching up and across is frequently required.
• Squatting, crouching, kneeling and lying on is frequently necessary especially when accessing awkward spaces under houses or between floors.
• Climbing may be required occasionally.
• Bending is frequently required.
• Twisting of the body or neck is frequently required.
• Lifting and carrying plumbing materials and equipment about the worksite is frequently required.
• Repetitive movements are occasionally required especially in the use of hands and arms for cutting, screwing and joining fixtures together.
• Driving to worksites is frequently required; many plumbers are self-employed.
• Plumbers frequently use a range of hand, power and machine tools including hammers, hacksaws, clamps, pipe-cutters, wrenches and flame producing cutting or metal heating equipment.
• Mental skills necessary include practical, problem-solving and organisational skills.

• A New Zealand Register Level 4 qualification or at least three years of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 3). In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification. For entry-level positions on-the-job training may be sufficient.
• Registration or licensing is required.

There are opportunities for flexibility of movement but they are limited.