A typical Plumber III working in metro Pennsylvania -- Allentown is expected to earn a median base salary of $43,022. Half of the people in this job are expected to earn between $37,583 and $47,069 (i.e., between the 25th and 75th percentiles). These numbers are based on national averages of $38,195 and $47,834 then adjusted by geographic salary differentials.

Apprentices usually begin at about 50 percent of the wage rate paid to experienced plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters. Wages increase periodically as skills improve. After an initial waiting period, apprentices receive the same benefits as experienced plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters.

Many plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters are members of the United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry of the United States and Canada.