Gas plumbers do much of the same work as regular plumbers, but have specialized skills that enable them to work with gas pipes and equipment. It is necessary to receive licensure or certification as a gasfitter to do this job in many parts of the world. This requires an education that takes place either at a technical college or during an on-the-job apprenticeship training program. An examination is sometimes necessary for licensure depending on where you wish to become a gas plumber. Once the qualifications have been met to become a gas plumber, you can begin applying for jobs with plumbing companies or work as an independent contractor.
Technical colleges offer education for individuals who wish to become a gas plumber through classes and hands-on training programs, and generally require a high school diploma to be admitted. These programs last anywhere from nine months to two years and provide a general knowledge base on the subject of plumbing. Gas plumbers require additional education that can last anywhere from a few months to a year and that teaches specialized information about the gasfitting process, tools, and equipment. You can find a technical college to attend by contacting a local plumbing association or union.
Another method to become a gas plumber involves finding an apprenticeship program. Apprenticeship programs take place in existing plumbing companies and through unions. This type of training is much more hands-on, though classroom instruction is a part of it, and consists of working with professional gas plumbers. Expect to spend four to five years in this type of training program to receive a thorough education that can lead you to become a gas plumber with enough experience to work independently in the field. It is necessary to have a high school diploma to enter into most apprenticeship training programs.
Once you have completed your education, you can check with your local government's professional licensure department to find out if you need to take an examination to become licensed or certified. If so, the next step is to follow the directions necessary to gain licensure in your area. After you are licensed or certified, you can begin to look for jobs as a gas plumber. If you did an apprenticeship program, you can ask to continue working as a regular employee. Otherwise you can look for jobs through plumbing associations or classified advertisements, or go into business as an independent gas plumber.