Plumber in Fremont, NE

The Salary Picture: Where Fremont Stands

As a local who’s watched the trades evolve in Dodge County, I can tell you plumbing is a solid, steady career here. The data confirms it. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and local market analysis, the median salary for a plumber in the Fremont, NE area is $61,544/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $29.59/hour. This is slightly below the national average of $63,350/year, but the cost of living here makes that salary go much further. The metro area reports about 54 active jobs for plumbers, and the 10-year job growth is projected at a steady 6%, driven by new construction in the growing western parts of the city and constant maintenance needs in older neighborhoods.

Here’s how experience typically translates to earnings in this market:

Experience Level	Typical Annual Salary	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$45,000 - $52,000	Assisting with installations, drain cleaning, basic repairs, learning code.
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$58,000 - $68,000	Independent service calls, complex repairs, troubleshooting, permitting.
Senior (8-15 years)	$70,000 - $85,000	Project management, mentoring apprentices, specialized system design.
Expert/Owner (15+ years)	$85,000+	Business ownership, complex commercial work, consulting, high-end custom work.

Compared to Other Nebraska Cities:
Fremont’s salary is competitive within the state. It sits above smaller markets like Grand Island and Kearney but trails behind the state's largest metro, Omaha, where salaries can be 10-15% higher but the cost of living is significantly steeper. For a plumber valuing a shorter commute, strong community ties, and lower housing costs, Fremont offers a compelling balance. The trade-off for a slightly lower wage is a much more affordable lifestyle, which we’ll break down next.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get practical. If you’re earning the median salary of $61,544/year, what does your monthly budget look like in Fremont? We’ll use standard deductions for a single filer (federal, state, FICA) and the local rent average.

Monthly Budget for a Plumber Earning $61,544/year:

Item	Estimated Cost	Notes
Gross Monthly Pay	$5,129	$61,544 / 12
Estimated Taxes (25-30%)	($1,282 - $1,539)	Federal, NE state tax (6.84%), FICA. Actual varies by deductions.
Net Monthly Take-Home	$3,590 - $3,847	This is your disposable income.
Average 1BR Rent	$859/month	The city-wide average (source: local rental market reports).
Utilities (Electric, Gas, Water, Internet)	$250	Based on a 1BR apartment in Fremont.
Groceries & Household	$400	For a single person.
Vehicle Payment/Insurance/Gas	$500	Assuming a used car payment + insurance + fuel for commuting.
Health Insurance (if not employer-paid)	$300	A conservative estimate for a high-deductible plan.
Retirement/Other Savings	$300	A responsible starting point.
Discretionary Spending	$300	Dining out, entertainment, hobbies.
Total Estimated Expenses	$2,909
Monthly Surplus	$681 - $938	This is your buffer for unexpected costs or extra savings.

Can they afford to buy a home?
Absolutely. With a monthly surplus of $681+, saving for a down payment is feasible. The median home price in Fremont hovers around $230,000. A 10% down payment would be $23,000. At a savings rate of $500/month, that’s about 4 years to save for the down payment, which is a realistic timeframe for many tradespeople. Mortgage payments for a $230,000 home (with 10% down, 7% interest) would be roughly $1,500/month (including property taxes and insurance), which is affordable on the $61,544 median salary, especially if you advance to a mid-level role earning closer to $68,000/year.

Where the Jobs Are: Fremont's Major Employers

The job market for plumbers in Fremont is a mix of residential service companies, industrial/commercial shops, and large institutional employers who maintain their own facilities. Here are the key players:

1. Fremont Health (now part of CHI Health): The city’s largest employer. They have an in-house facilities team that handles all plumbing needs for the hospital and clinics. These are highly sought-after positions with excellent benefits. Jobs here are competitive; they often look for licensed plumbers with 5+ years of experience and a clean background.
2. Metropolitan Utilities District (MUD): While primarily a water utility, MUD’s vast network of mains and meters requires a dedicated team of technicians and inspectors with plumbing expertise. These jobs offer great stability, union benefits, and a focus on municipal infrastructure.
3. Lund Company: A major regional construction and excavation firm based in Fremont. They handle large-scale commercial and public works projects (like schools and roads). They hire plumbers for new construction crews. Hiring trends show an increase in demand for plumbers skilled in commercial rough-ins and PVC/PEX work.
4. Fremont Public Schools: Another major institutional employer with its own maintenance department. They need plumbers to handle everything from broken fixtures in 50-year-old buildings (like Fremont High School) to new installations in the newest elementary schools (like Horning Elementary in the growing west side).
5. A-1 Plumbing & Heating, Inc.: A well-established, local residential and commercial service company. They represent a typical mid-sized shop where a plumber can get broad experience. They often post jobs on local classifieds and trade schools for apprentices.
6. Woodland Park Apartments (and other large complexes): Large property management companies (like Woodland Park in north Fremont) often have a preferred plumber or hire a full-time maintenance tech with plumbing skills. These are great entry-level or side-gig opportunities to build residential repair experience.
7. Local Excavation & Septic Companies: Companies like Dodge County Septic or Pioneer Excavating need plumbers for septic system installations and repairs, a crucial service in the rural areas surrounding Fremont. This is a niche with steady demand.

Hiring Trends: The most consistent demand is for licensed journeyman plumbers with commercial experience. Companies are actively seeking plumbers who can read blueprints, pull permits, and work independently. There’s a noticeable gap for mid-level plumbers (3-7 years), making it a great time to move to Fremont if you have that experience.

Getting Licensed in NE

Nebraska has a clear, state-regulated licensing path managed by the Nebraska State Electrical Division (which also oversees plumbing). You cannot work independently without a license.

Requirements & Process:

1. Registered Plumber (Apprentice): You can start working under a licensed plumber immediately. You must register with the state and complete 4 years (8,000 hours) of on-the-job training.
2. Journeyman Plumber: After completing your apprenticeship, you must pass the Nebraska Journeyman Plumber Exam. You need to submit your training hours and proof of completion. The exam covers the International Plumbing Code (IPC) as adopted by Nebraska.
3. Master Plumber: To become a master plumber, you need to work as a journeyman for at least 2 years and pass the Master Plumber exam. A master plumber can own a business and pull permits for their own work.

Costs & Timeline:

• Apprentice Registration: Approximately $25/year.
• Journeyman Exam Fee: Around $100 (subject to change).
• Master Plumber Exam Fee: Around $150.
• Total Estimated Cost to Licensure: $200 - $300 (excluding training costs, which are often covered by employer sponsors or union programs).
• Timeline: From the day you start as an apprentice, it will take a minimum of 4 years to become a journeyman, and roughly 6 years to become a master plumber.

Insider Tip: The local plumbers’ union (UA Local 39 in Omaha, which covers Fremont) offers a state-approved apprenticeship program. It’s a structured path with classroom instruction and guaranteed wage progression. This is the most reliable way to get your training. Many non-union shops also sponsor apprentices. Always ask about apprenticeship opportunities during your job search.

Best Neighborhoods for Plumbers

Fremont’s neighborhoods offer different commutes and lifestyles. For a plumber, proximity to job sites (often commercial areas on the west side) and affordable housing is key.

1. Westside (Horning, Ridgeview, Frey areas): This is the newest and fastest-growing part of Fremont. You’ll find new subdivisions, commercial strips, and the new high school. Commute to job sites here is minimal. It’s family-friendly with good schools.

   • Rent Estimate: $950 - $1,200/month for a 1BR or 2BR apartment. A bit higher than average, but you pay for location.
   • Best For: Plumbers working for Lund Company, new construction crews, or the school district.

2. North Fremont (near Woodland Park): Established, quiet neighborhoods with older homes (1970s-1990s). Good access to Highway 275 for commutes to Omaha or other jobs. More residential service work potential here.

   • Rent Estimate: $800 - $950/month for a 1BR.
   • Best For: Plumbers working for residential service companies or who want a stable, suburban feel.

3. East Fremont (Downtown/ Historic District): The heart of the city. You’re close to local shops, restaurants, and the historic downtown area. Commutes are short, but housing is a mix of older apartments and renovated homes. Very walkable.

   • Rent Estimate: $750 - $1,100/month (varies widely between old apartments and renovated lofts).
   • Best For: Younger plumbers who want an urban vibe and easy access to nightlife without a long drive.

4. South Fremont (near N. Broad St. & Highway 30): A mix of residential and industrial areas. Offers direct access to the central business district and industrial parks. Housing is affordable and often includes more space.

   • Rent Estimate: $700 - $900/month for a 1BR.
   • Best For: Plumbers working for industrial/commercial shops or at Fremont Health. The commute to most major employers is under 15 minutes.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The 10-year outlook for plumbers in Fremont is positive, driven by 6% job growth. Here’s how you can maximize your earnings and advancement.

Specialty Premiums: Once you’re a journeyman, specializing can bump your pay significantly:

• Commercial/Industrial Systems: Plumbers who can work with medical gas, hydronic heating, or industrial process piping in plants (like Hormel Foods) can earn 10-20% more than residential service plumbers.
• Backflow Prevention Certification: A certified backflow tester is in high demand for commercial buildings and irrigation systems. This certification can add $5,000+ to your annual income in side work or a salaried role.
• Welding (Pipefitter): If you can also weld (especially for gas lines), you become invaluable for large projects and can move into higher-paying pipefitting roles, which are often unionized with higher wages.

Advancement Paths:

• Path 1: Service Tech to Service Manager: Start in residential/commercial service, become a senior tech, then move into a management role overseeing other techs at a company like A-1 Plumbing. This path can lead to $80,000+.
• Path 2: Field to Office: Move from fieldwork to estimating, project management, or sales for a larger company like Lund Company. This role is less physically demanding and uses your trade knowledge in a different way.
• Path 3: Business Ownership: The ultimate goal for many. With 10+ years of experience (and a master’s license), you can start your own one- or two-truck operation. In Fremont, a small residential service company can easily gross $150,000+ annually after expenses, but it requires business acumen.

10-Year Outlook: In a decade, the 6% growth means more jobs, but also more competition. The aging workforce will create opportunities for experienced plumbers to take on leadership roles. The continued growth of Fremont’s west side suggests sustained demand for new construction plumbers. The key will be staying current with technology (e.g., tankless water heaters, PEX systems, smart home water sensors) and code updates.

The Verdict: Is Fremont Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Very Low Cost of Living (90.5 index): Your $61,544 salary goes much further than the national average.	Smaller Job Market (54 jobs): Fewer openings than a major metro. You may need to be patient or flexible.
Short Commutes: Most neighborhoods are 10-15 minutes from major employers.	Lower Ceiling vs. Big Cities: Top-end salaries for plumbers are higher in Omaha or Lincoln.
Stable, Steady Demand: From institutional employers (hospitals, schools) to residential service, work is consistent.	Limited Nightlife/Arts: The social scene is quieter and more community/family-oriented.
Strong Community Feel: It’s easy to build a reputation and network among local tradespeople.	Weather: Winters can be harsh, with freezing temperatures affecting outdoor work and requiring knowledge of freeze protection.
Affordable Homeownership: A realistic goal on a plumber’s salary.	Reliance on a Car: Public transportation is limited; you’ll need a reliable vehicle.

Final Recommendation:
Fremont is an excellent choice for a plumber who values a balanced lifestyle, affordability, and job stability over the highest possible salary. It’s ideal for mid-career plumbing professionals (journeymen with 3-10 years of experience) looking to buy their first home, start a family, or establish a long-term career in a supportive community. It’s less ideal for new apprentices just starting out, as the non-union apprenticeship opportunities are fewer than in Omaha. For them, starting in a larger city and moving to Fremont later might be a better strategy. For the right person, Fremont offers a rewarding and financially sustainable career in the trades.

FAQs

Q: Do I need to know Spanish to work as a plumber in Fremont?
A: It’s not required, but it’s a significant advantage. Fremont has a diverse community, and being able to communicate with all customers will make you more employable and successful, especially in residential service work.

Q: What’s the weather like for plumbing work?
A: You’ll work in all seasons. Summers are hot (90°F+), requiring hydration and sun protection. Winters can be bitterly cold with wind chills below zero, making outdoor work challenging. Knowledge of working in tight, cold spaces and with frozen pipes is crucial.

Q: How competitive is the market for union vs. non-union jobs?
A: The union (UA Local 39) has a strong presence but doesn’t dominate the entire market. Many reputable non-union shops offer competitive wages and benefits. Union jobs are typically on larger commercial projects and offer structured wage scales, while non-union shops can offer more flexibility and faster path to management in some cases.

Q: What’s the best way to find a job before moving?
A: Use the Nebraska Department of Labor website, and search local classifieds on KJZZ 101.5 and Omaha World-Herald job sections. Also, look up local companies (like A-1 Plumbing, Lund Company) directly and check their “Careers” pages. LinkedIn can also help you connect with local hiring managers.

Q: Are there opportunities for side work in Fremont?
A: Yes, absolutely. Once you’re licensed and insured, side work for friends, family, and neighbors is common (small drain clogs, fixture installations). Be sure to check local regulations on side work, and always carry your own liability insurance. It’s a great way to supplement your income.