The Complete Career Guide for Plumbers in Bismarck, ND

So, you're thinking about moving to Bismarck, North Dakota, to work as a plumber. As someone who knows this state inside and out, from the oil fields of the Bakken to the quiet streets of the capital city, I can tell you Bismarck offers a unique blend of stability, affordability, and real-world opportunity. It’s not a flashy market, but for a skilled trade like plumbing, it’s a place where you can build a solid career without the chaos and cost of a major coastal city.

This guide is your no-nonsense primer on what life as a plumber in Bismarck actually looks like. We’ll break down the numbers, the neighborhoods, the employers, and the long-term prospects. This isn't about selling you on Bismarck; it's about giving you the data you need to decide if it's the right fit for your tools and your life.

The Salary Picture: Where Bismarck Stands

Let's start with the most critical question: what does the paycheck look like? North Dakota, for all its economic ups and downs, generally pays a premium for skilled trades. Plumbing is no exception. The data shows a strong, stable market here.

The median salary for a plumber in Bismarck is $61,373 per year, which translates to an hourly rate of $29.51. This is slightly below the national average of $63,350, but it's crucial to adjust this for the local cost of living (more on that later). The 10-year job growth for plumbers in the metro area is projected at 6%, which is steady and reliable. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and state job data indicate there are approximately 150 jobs for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters in the Bismarck metro, a number that holds firm even during economic shifts.

To get a clearer picture of your potential earnings, here’s a breakdown by experience level. These are estimates based on local union (UA Local 644) scales, contractor feedback, and industry reports for the region.

Experience Level	Years of Experience	Estimated Annual Salary	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level	0-2 years	$45,000 - $52,000	Apprentice tasks, material handling, basic repairs, assisting journeymen.
Mid-Level	3-7 years	$55,000 - $70,000	Running service calls independently, rough-in work, basic code compliance.
Senior/Expert	8+ years	$72,000 - $85,000+	Complex installations, commercial/industrial projects, service management, mentoring.
Master Plumber	10+ years, licensed	$80,000 - $95,000+	Business ownership, highest-level design, system design, major contract bids.

Insider Tip: The jump from mid-level to senior often comes with specialization. A plumber who can confidently handle commercial boiler systems or medical gas lines will see a significant pay increase over someone who only does residential service calls. The UA Local 644 union hall is a key resource for understanding these wage tiers in the Bismarck-Mandan area.

Comparison to Other ND Cities

Bismarck sits in the middle of the pack for plumber salaries in North Dakota. It's not the highest earner, but it's also not the most competitive or expensive.

• Fargo: The state's largest metro often has slightly higher wages due to more commercial construction and competition, but the cost of living is also higher. Median salary is closer to $63,000.
• Grand Forks: Similar to Bismarck, with a strong base around $60,000, heavily influenced by the university and Air Force base.
• Williston/Dickinson: These western ND cities in the oil patch can see much higher wages (often $70,000+ for experienced commercial plumbers), but the jobs are less stable, and the lifestyle is more transient and challenging.

Bismarck offers the best balance of steady work, reasonable pay, and a manageable, family-friendly environment.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A $61,373 salary sounds good, but what does it mean for your monthly budget? Bismarck's affordability is its biggest draw. The Cost of Living Index is 89.6 (US average = 100), meaning your dollar goes about 10.4% further here than the national average.

Let's break down the monthly take-home for a single plumber earning the median salary.

Monthly Budget Breakdown: Plumber ($61,373/year)

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Gross Monthly Pay	$5,114	$61,373 / 12
Taxes (Federal, State, FICA)	~$1,100	ND has a flat 1.95% income tax + federal rates.
Health Insurance	~$250	Varies by employer; many trade jobs offer good plans.
401(k) / Retirement	~$200	Highly recommended; many employers offer a match.
Net Take-Home Pay	~$3,564	Your actual cash in hand.
Rent (1BR Average)	$848	US average is ~$1,700. This is a game-changer.
Utilities (Elec/Heat/Gas)	$200	Bismarck winters are cold; heating costs are real.
Car Payment/Insurance	$450	A car is a necessity; insurance is moderate.
Groceries	$300	Reasonable for the Midwest.
Misc. (Phone, Gas, Fun)	$400	Buffer for life.
Remaining (Savings/Debt)	~$1,366	A very healthy surplus for a single person.

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. With a surplus of over $1,300/month after all living expenses, saving for a down payment is feasible. The median home price in Bismarck is around $275,000. A 20% down payment ($55,000) might take 3-4 years of disciplined saving, but a 5% down payment ($13,750) could be achieved in under a year. Many local lenders offer programs for first-time homebuyers, especially for those in stable trades. Plumbers are considered reliable borrowers by many local banks.

Where the Jobs Are: Bismarck's Major Employers

Bismarck's job market for plumbers is diverse, spanning residential, commercial, and institutional work. Here are the key local players:

1. Bismarck Mechanical Company: A major player in commercial and industrial HVAC and plumbing. They handle large projects for hospitals, schools, and federal buildings. They are a union shop (UA Local 644) and offer excellent benefits and structured pay scales. Hiring trends focus on journeymen with commercial experience.
2. ServiceOne: A large, non-union residential and commercial service company. They are one of the biggest employers for service plumbers in the area, with a strong focus on customer service and efficiency. They often hire apprentices and offer training.
3. Kadrmas, Lee & Jackson (KLJ): While primarily an engineering firm, they have a significant water/wastewater division that employs plumbers and pipefitters for large-scale municipal projects (water treatment plants, sewer lines). More project-based, great for those who like variety.
4. North Dakota State Hospital: As a major state employer, the hospital has a facilities department that employs in-house plumbers for maintenance and renovation work. These are stable, government jobs with great benefits and pensions, though they may pay slightly less than the private sector.
5. Mandan Public Schools / Bismarck Public Schools: School districts regularly hire plumbers for facilities maintenance. These are union (AFSCME) positions with predictable schedules, summers off (if not on year-round duty), and strong job security.
6. Local Residential Contractors: Dozens of smaller residential builders like Krause Custom Homes and Rusco Construction hire plumbers for new construction rough-in and finish work. These jobs are often project-based but provide excellent networking opportunities.

Insider Tip: The most lucrative work is often in commercial/industrial. Companies like Bismarck Mechanical and KLJ pay a premium for plumbers who can read blueprints, work with large-diameter pipe (6" and up), and are certified for specialized systems (e.g., medical gas, fire suppression). Getting your journeyman license is the first step; commercial certifications are the next.

Getting Licensed in ND

North Dakota has a clear, regulated licensing process managed by the North Dakota State Plumbing Board. You cannot work as a plumber without proper licensure.

Key Requirements & Costs:

1. Apprenticeship: You must complete a state-approved apprenticeship program. This typically involves 4-5 years of on-the-job training (2,000 hours per year) and 128 hours of classroom instruction per year. Many apprentices are sponsored by a contractor or join through the UA Local 644 union.
2. Journeyman Plumber Exam: After your apprenticeship, you must pass the state journeyman exam. The exam covers the International Plumbing Code (IPC), as amended by North Dakota, and state-specific regulations.
3. Costs: The exam fee is approximately $150. Apprenticeship programs may have nominal fees for books and materials. There is no state income tax on the first $41,775 for a single filer (for 2023), which helps apprentices.

Timeline to Get Started:

• Day 1: Find an employer to sponsor your apprenticeship or contact the North Dakota Department of Labor for approved programs.
• Year 1-5: Complete your apprenticeship, logging hours and attending classes.
• Year 5: Apply to take the journeyman exam.
• Year 5.5: Pass the exam and receive your journeyman license.
• Year 10+: After working as a journeyman for 5 years, you can apply for the Master Plumber license, which allows you to start your own business and pull permits.

Insider Tip: The North Dakota State Plumbing Board website is your best friend. Their rules are strict but straightforward. Mandan (right across the river from Bismarck) has its own code, but generally follows the state plumbing code. Always check local ordinances for specific projects.

Best Neighborhoods for Plumbers

Where you live in Bismarck affects your commute, lifestyle, and rent. Here’s a pragmatic breakdown:

1. Downtown Bismarck: Walkable, vibrant, with older homes that often need plumbing work. Great for young, single plumbers who want nightlife. Commute to most job sites is under 15 minutes. Rent for a 1BR: $900 - $1,200.
2. South Bismarck (Century Ave / Highland Acres): The quintessential family neighborhood. Quiet, safe, with excellent schools. A longer commute to some industrial areas (10-20 mins), but worth it for the lifestyle. Rent for a 1BR: $800 - $1,000.
3. Mandan: Just across the Missouri River. Often more affordable than Bismarck, with a strong community feel. Home to many industrial sites (like KLJ and factories), making for a very short commute for certain jobs. Rent for a 1BR: $750 - $950.
4. East Bismarck (near the Capitol): Established neighborhoods with mature trees and larger lots. Good access to city services and a straight shot to the interstate. Popular with state employees (like those at the hospital). Rent for a 1BR: $850 - $1,100.
5. West Bismarck (near the airport): Newer developments, more affordable housing, and a quick commute to the industrial parks on the west side. Can feel less "central," but offers modern amenities. Rent for a 1BR: $700 - $900.

Insider Tip: For a plumber with a work truck and tools, parking is a key consideration. Downtown and older neighborhoods often have limited off-street parking. Look for rentals with a garage or dedicated driveway. Mandan and West Bismarck often offer better parking options.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A career as a plumber in Bismarck has clear, defined paths for advancement.

Specialty Premiums:

• Commercial/Industrial Systems: Plumbers who can work on large boilers, chilled water systems, or process piping in the oil and agriculture sectors can earn $5-$10 more per hour than residential service plumbers.
• Medical Gas Certification: A highly valuable specialty for work in hospitals (like Sanford Medical or CHI St. Alexius) and clinics. This certification can add a 10-15% premium to your wages.
• Backflow Prevention: A state-required certification for many commercial properties. It’s a short course but a steady source of side work or a specialty service line.

Advancement Paths:

1. Service Technician to Service Manager: Move from the field to a supervisory role at a company like ServiceOne.
2. Journeyman to Foreman: Take on a leadership role on construction sites with companies like Bismarck Mechanical.
3. Master Plumber to Business Owner: After 5+ years as a journeyman, get your Master license and start your own shop. Bismarck has a healthy market for small, reputable plumbing businesses.

10-Year Outlook:
The 6% growth rate is a solid indicator. Bismarck is experiencing steady growth, with new housing developments (like in the Sunset Hills area) and commercial projects (retail, healthcare expansions). The aging infrastructure in older neighborhoods like North Bismarck and Mandan ensures consistent repair and retrofit work. The biggest threat is not a lack of work, but a lack of new apprentices entering the trade, which will only increase demand and wages for those already in the field.

The Verdict: Is Bismarck Right for You?

This isn't a one-size-fits-all city. Your decision should hinge on your priorities.

Pros of Being a Plumber in Bismarck	Cons of Being a Plumber in Bismarck
Excellent Affordability: Your paycheck goes far; homeownership is within reach.	Harsh Winters: Cold snaps can freeze pipes and demand emergency calls. You'll work in unheated spaces.
Stable, Diverse Job Market: 150+ jobs with steady growth, not reliant on one industry.	Limited "Prestige" Projects: Few high-rise, ultra-modern buildings; work is often functional vs. showpiece.
Short Commutes: 15-20 minute drives to most job sites, even in traffic.	Smaller Network: Fewer large contractors than in Fargo or Minneapolis. Networking is more personal.
Strong Union Presence: UA Local 644 provides good wages, benefits, and apprenticeship structure.	Social Scene Can Be Limited: It's a family-oriented city; nightlife is quiet compared to larger metros.
Clear Career Path: Rules and licensing are straightforward, with defined steps to advancement.	Isolation: It's a 6-hour drive to Minneapolis; travel options are limited.

Final Recommendation:
Bismarck is an ideal choice for a plumber who values stability, affordability, and a high quality of life over high-octane career climbing or a bustling urban scene. It's perfect for a mid-career plumber looking to buy a home and start a family, or for a young apprentice who wants a structured, low-cost entry into the trade. If your primary goal is to maximize your earnings at all costs, you might look to the oil patch or larger cities. But if you want a career, not just a job, where you can build a life on a solid foundation, Bismarck is a hard place to beat.

FAQs

Q: I'm a plumber from another state. Will my experience transfer?
A: It depends. North Dakota will review your out-of-state experience, but you will likely need to complete some portion of the required apprenticeship hours or pass the journeyman exam. Contact the ND State Plumbing Board with your work history and certifications for a definitive assessment. They are generally reasonable but stick to their rules.

Q: How long are the winters, and what does that mean for my work?
A: Bismarck sees snow from late October through April, with sub-zero temps common in January and February. This is the peak season for emergency calls (frozen pipes, boiler breakdowns). It's physically demanding work, but it's also when plumbers are busiest and often earn overtime. You'll need a reliable 4WD vehicle and the right gear.

Q: Is there a lot of side work or moonlighting?
A: Yes, but be careful. As a journeyman, you can take side jobs, but you must be insured and follow all codes. Many plumbers do side work for friends and neighbors, especially in the summer. Starting your own LLC after getting your Master license opens up more legitimate side hustle opportunities.

Q: What's the job market like for commercial vs. residential work?
A: Both are strong, but different. Residential work (service and new construction) is steady and widespread. Commercial/Industrial work is more project