Plumbers, Pipefitters & Steamfitters vs Reinforcing Iron & Rebar Workers

Both trades offer solid middle-class careers with similar earning potential and steady growth. Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters earn a median $62,970 annually, while reinforcing iron and rebar workers make $59,280 - just a $3,690 difference. Growth projections are nearly identical at around 5% over the next decade. The key difference lies in the work itself: plumbing trades focus on installing and maintaining water, gas, and drainage systems, while rebar workers specialize in reinforcing concrete structures with steel bars and mesh. Training paths differ significantly, with plumbing requiring 4-5 years and state licensing, versus 2-3 years for rebar work.

The $3,690 salary difference between these trades is relatively small - about 6.2%. Entry-level plumbers typically start around $40,000, while experienced journeymen can earn $80,000+ with overtime and specialty work like steamfitting or industrial piping pushing earnings higher. Rebar workers start similarly around $38,000, with experienced workers reaching $75,000+. Both trades offer excellent overtime opportunities, especially during construction booms. Plumbers have more diverse income streams through service calls, emergency work, and eventually running their own shops. Union positions in both trades typically offer better benefits and wage scales than non-union work.

Both are physically demanding careers requiring strength and stamina. Plumbers work in varied environments - from comfortable new construction to cramped crawl spaces and emergency repairs in harsh conditions. The work is year-round with some indoor comfort. Rebar workers primarily work outdoors on construction sites, dealing with weather extremes and heights. Both face safety risks, but rebar work involves more exposure to falls and heavy lifting. Plumbers often work alone or in small teams, while rebar workers typically work in larger crews. Travel varies by specialty - service plumbers stay local, while pipefitters and rebar workers may travel for major projects.

Plumbers have diverse advancement paths: specializing in commercial, industrial, or service work, becoming master plumbers, or opening their own businesses. The trade offers excellent entrepreneurship opportunities with steady residential and commercial demand. Income potential is virtually unlimited for successful business owners. Rebar workers can advance to crew leaders, superintendents, or estimators within construction companies. Some transition to general contracting or specialize in complex structural work. However, advancement often means moving away from hands-on work into management. Business ownership opportunities exist but are more limited, typically requiring expansion into broader construction services rather than specialized rebar work alone.

Both are excellent choices for stable, middle-class careers. Choose plumbing for variety, problem-solving, and business opportunities. Choose rebar work for straightforward construction, faster entry, and being part of major building projects. Your personality and long-term goals matter more than the small salary difference.