Plumbing Apprentice

Upchurch; Hattiesburg (MS); On-site; USD 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Paid time off

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Upchurch in Hattiesburg, Mississippi is seeking eager candidates to start their plumbing career with paid hands-on training. Under the guidance of experienced Journeymen/Lead Plumbers, you'll learn essential skills including installation, repair, and maintenance of plumbing systems. Candidates must have a high school diploma, valid driver’s license, and the ability to work in various heights and conditions. Benefits include competitive salary, health insurance, and opportunities for professional development.

Qualifications

• Must have a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Ability to work in various environmental conditions.
• Ability to pass a standard background and drug screen.

Responsibilities

• Install, repair, and maintain plumbing systems on projects.
• Measure, cut, thread, glue, and solder piping.
• Set and connect fixtures such as sinks and water heaters.

Skills

Ability to lift 50–75 lbs

Willingness to learn

Teamwork

Education

High school diploma/GED

Tools

Basic hand/power tools

Job description

Company Overview

Upchurch is a rapidly growing, full-service building engineering company providing mechanical, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical services across the southeastern United States. Founded in 1970 and headquartered in Horn Lake, MS, Upchurch has grown through both organic expansion and strategic acquisitions, establishing a strong reputation for quality, reliability, and service excellence. We offer end-to-end solutions—from design and installation to ongoing maintenance and emergency support—helping clients maximize building performance, energy efficiency, and equipment lifespan.

Why this role

Start your plumbing career with paid, hands‑on training alongside experienced Journeymen/Lead Plumbers. You’ll learn rough‑in, finish, service diagnostics, safety, and how to read basic drawings—gaining hours toward licensure and a clear path to Journeyman.

What you’ll do

• Work under a Journeyman/Lead to install, repair, and maintain plumbing systems on commercial/industrial projects.
• Measure, cut, thread, glue, solder, and braze piping (PVC/CPVC, copper, PEX, cast iron).
• Set and connect fixtures (lavs, water closets, floor drains, carriers, water heaters).
• Assist with rough‑in and trim, hang and support pipe, and pressure test systems.
• Read/interpret basic plans, elevations, and isometrics; verify material takeoffs.
• Safely operate hand/power tools (threader, bandsaw, press tools) and maintain a clean work area.
• Follow all safety policies: PPE, lockout/tagout, ladders/scaffolds, confined spaces.
• Document work (photos, simple checklists), support site logistics, and help with material staging.
• (Service track) Shadow diagnostics, perform preventive maintenance, and support emergency calls.

What you’ll bring

• Required:
  • High school diploma/GED.
  • Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation; insurable MVR per company policy.
  • Ability to lift 50–75 lbs, work at heights/ladders, in hot/cold/outdoor conditions, and in confined spaces.
  • Willingness to learn, follow direction, and work safely as part of a team.
  • Ability to pass standard background and drug screen.
• Nice to have (preferred):
  • Trade school or NCCER coursework; OSHA-10/CPR.
  • Basic hand/power tool experience.
  • Construction math & measurement skills; ability to read a tape to 1/16”.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary based on experience.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off and holiday pay.
• Opportunities for professional development and certification assistance.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Upchurch Companies provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.