Plumber's Career Guide: Riverton, Wyoming

So you're thinking about moving to Riverton to work as a plumber? As someone who knows this town inside and out—where the wind whips across the valley from the Wind River Range and the community feels both tight-knit and wide open—I can tell you it's a unique place to build a career. Riverton isn't a booming metropolis, but it’s a solid, steady community where skilled trades are respected and in consistent demand. This guide is your roadmap, built on hard data and local insight. We're going beyond the basics to look at the real numbers, the neighborhoods, the employers, and whether your wrench and hard hat will feel at home here.

The Salary Picture: Where Riverton Stands

Let's get straight to the numbers. The median salary for a plumber in Riverton is $62,779 per year, which translates to an hourly wage of $30.18. This is just slightly below the national average of $63,350/year. For a town of this size and cost of living, that's a competitive wage.

To understand what this means for your career, let's break it down by experience. The following table is a realistic estimate for the Riverton market, based on BLS data and local job postings.

Experience Level	Typical Years in Trade	Riverton Salary Range	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level	0-2 years	$45,000 - $55,000	Apprentice duties, assisting on jobs, learning codes, basic installations.
Mid-Career	3-7 years	$58,000 - $72,000	Journeyman work, running service calls, leading small projects, quoting jobs.
Senior	8-15 years	$70,000 - $85,000+	Master plumber duties, complex projects, commercial work, mentoring apprentices.
Expert/Owner	15+ years	$85,000+ (variable)	Business ownership, specialized niches (medical gas, process piping), major contracts.

Sources: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, Wyoming Department of Workforce Services, local job postings.

When you compare Riverton to other Wyoming cities, the picture is interesting. You might make a few thousand more in the Cheyenne or Gillette metros, but your money goes much further here. Casper and Laramie are closer to Riverton's pay scale, but with higher housing costs. In short, Riverton offers a median salary that holds its own, especially when paired with the lower cost of living.

Insider Tip: The 6% job growth projection over the next 10 years for the metro area is key. It’s not explosive, but it’s steady. In a trade like plumbing, which is recession-resistant (pipes still break during economic downturns), steady growth is a good sign. It means you’re less likely to face a job drought.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

The $62,779 median salary sounds good, but what does it mean for your monthly life? Let's crunch the numbers.

For a single filer in 2024, here’s a rough estimate of take-home pay:

• Gross Monthly: $5,231
• Est. Taxes (Federal & State ~22%): -$1,150
• Monthly Take-Home Pay: ~$4,081

Now, let's factor in housing. The average 1-bedroom rent in Riverton is $921/month. This is a significant advantage over national averages and many other Wyoming cities.

Here’s a sample monthly budget for a plumber earning the median wage:

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Gross Monthly Income	$5,231
Take-Home Pay (after ~22% taxes)	$4,081	This is a conservative estimate; your actual take-home may be higher.
Rent (1BR Average)	$921	A significant portion of income, but manageable.
Utilities (Electric, Gas, Water, Internet)	$250 - $350	Wyoming winters mean higher heating costs.
Groceries & Household	$400 - $500
Vehicle Costs (Payment, Gas, Insurance)	$500 - $700	Riverton is a driving town; limited public transit.
Health Insurance (if not employer-paid)	$300 - $500
Savings & Discretionary	$1,310 - $1,710

Can you afford to buy a home? Absolutely, and this is a major draw. With a take-home of $4,081 and a rent equivalent of $921, you have significant cash flow to save. The median home price in Riverton hovers around $220,000 - $260,000. With a 20% down payment ($44,000 - $52,000), a 30-year mortgage at current rates would have a monthly payment (including taxes and insurance) of roughly $1,200 - $1,400. This is very feasible on a single plumber's salary, a stark contrast to the housing markets in Denver, Salt Lake City, or even Casper. Many local plumbers own their own homes within a few years of moving here.

Where the Jobs Are: Riverton's Major Employers

The job market here is built on a mix of local businesses, municipal work, and the broader regional economy. You're not going to find corporate headquarters, but you will find steady work from these key employers:

1. Riverton City Public Works Department: Responsible for the city's water and sewer infrastructure. They hire plumbers and operators for water treatment plants, wastewater facilities, and city maintenance. It’s a stable, government job with excellent benefits.
2. Fremont County School District #25 (Riverton): The local school district maintains its own facilities. They employ in-house maintenance staff, including licensed plumbers, to keep schools running. Good for those with K-12 projects and plumbing license.
3. Local Plumbing & HVAC Companies: There are several well-established local shops, such as Mountain View Plumbing, Riverton Plumbing & Heating, and Wyoming Mechanical. These companies handle residential and commercial service calls, installations, and new construction. They are the primary source of jobs for most plumbers.
4. Regional Medical Facilities: While the large hospital (SageWest Health Care) is in nearby Lander, the Riverton area has numerous private clinics, dental offices, and the Fremont County Community Health Center. These facilities require specialized plumbing for medical gas, infection control, and ADA compliance, often subcontracting to licensed master plumbers.
5. Construction & Development Firms: Companies like Riverton Home Builders and Wyoming Custom Builders handle new residential construction. They subcontract to plumbers for rough-in and finish work. The 6% job growth is largely tied to this sector.
6. US Bureau of Reclamation (Wind River Project): While not a direct employer for all plumbers, the massive irrigation and water project in the region often needs specialized industrial pipefitters and plumbers for maintenance and upgrades, sometimes through contractors.

Hiring Trends: The demand is consistent. The local companies are always looking for qualified journeymen and are willing to train apprentices. The "hiring trend" here isn't a frenzy; it's a constant need. A plumber with a clean driving record, a valid WY license, and a good attitude can walk into almost any of these businesses and get a steady job.

Getting Licensed in WY

Wyoming's licensing is managed by the Wyoming Department of Fire Prevention and Electrical Safety (DFPES). It's a straightforward, apprenticeship-based system.

• Path: You must complete a state-approved apprenticeship program (typically 4 years, 8,000 hours of on-the-job training) and pass the journeyman plumber exam. For a master license, you need an additional 2 years (4,000 hours) as a journeyman and must pass the master exam.
• Costs:
  • Apprentice Registration: $50 (annual)
  • Journeyman Exam Fee: $150
  • Journeyman License Fee: $150 (taxed biennially)
  • Master Exam Fee: $150
  • Master License Fee: $250 (taxed biennially)
  • Total Estimated Cost to Journeyman: $400 - $600 (not including tools, books, or tuition if you go through a paid program).
• Timeline: From starting as an apprentice to holding your journeyman license is typically 4-5 years. The best way to start is to apply for an apprenticeship with a local company or through the Wyoming State Building Trades.

Insider Tip: Wyoming has reciprocity with some states. If you're already licensed elsewhere, check the DFPES website for reciprocity agreements—it can save you years of retraining.

Best Neighborhoods for Plumbers

Riverton is compact, with distinct areas. Commute times are negligible (most trips are under 15 minutes), so you can prioritize lifestyle.

• Eastside (Near Main Street): The heart of old Riverton. Established homes, many from the mid-20th century. This means more service work and repipes. Rent is reasonable, around $850 - $1,100 for a 1-2BR. Walkable to downtown shops and restaurants. Ideal for someone who values a short commute and a bit of character.
• Westside (Near the College): Home to Central Wyoming College (CWC). A mix of student rentals and family homes. Rent is a bit lower, $750 - $1,000. The area is quiet and has more new construction on the fringes. Good for those who want a residential feel with the college amenities nearby.
• South Riverton (Toward Thunderbird): This area has seen growth near the Thunderbird Mall and the new developments on the south side. More modern homes, which means installing new systems (PEX, energy-efficient appliances). Rent is similar to the rest of the city, $900 - $1,200. Good for plumbers who want to work in new construction.
• North Riverton (Toward Arapahoe): A more rural feel, with larger lots and some older properties. It's a bit more spread out, but you can find rental houses with yards for $950 - $1,300. Appeals to those who want space and don't mind being a 5-10 minute drive from Main Street.
• Riverton Heights: A small, quiet residential area on the north side. Very family-friendly, with good schools. Rent is on the higher end for the area, $1,000 - $1,400, for the newer and well-maintained properties.

The Long Game: Career Growth

In Riverton, career growth isn't about climbing a corporate ladder. It's about expanding your skills and taking on more responsibility.

• Specialty Premiums: While data is sparse for a small town, specializing can significantly increase your earnings.
  • Medical Gas: Certified installers are rare and highly valued for healthcare facilities. This could add a 10-15% premium.
  • Industrial/Commercial: Working on large-scale projects (like irrigation systems or industrial plants) often pays more than residential service.
  • Business Ownership: The ultimate growth path. Many successful local plumbing businesses were started by solo plumbers who built a reputation. The overhead is low, and the local market is loyal.
• Advancement Paths: The clear path is Apprentice -> Journeyman -> Master Plumber -> Business Owner/Contractor. Many master plumbers in Riverton also consult on code compliance for local contractors.
• 10-Year Outlook (6% Growth): This growth is directly tied to the region's economy. As the population of Riverton and the surrounding Fremont County grows (slowly but steadily), so will the need for new plumbing installations, maintenance, and infrastructure upgrades. The push for water conservation in the arid West also means more retrofitting and system upgrades, which is good business for plumbers.

The Verdict: Is Riverton Right for You?

Riverton is not for everyone. It's for the plumber who values stability, affordability, and a strong sense of community over the hustle and bustle of a big city. Here’s the bottom line:

Pros	Cons
Cost of Living is Low (Index: 97.0). Your $62,779 salary goes much further.	Limited nightlife and dining. It’s a quiet town.
Home Ownership is Very Attainable. You can buy a house far sooner than in most markets.	Isolation. The closest major city (Casper) is a 2.5-hour drive.
Steady, Recession-Resistant Demand. The 6% job growth signals stability.	Weather. Wyoming winters are long, cold, and windy.
Tight-Knit Trade Community. You'll know everyone in your field.	Limited Specialization. Fewer chances for ultra-niche work compared to a big city.
Unbeatable Access to the Outdoors. Hunting, fishing, hiking, and skiing in the Wind River Range are literally in your backyard.	Slower Pace. If you're used to constant activity, it can feel slow.

Final Recommendation: Riverton is an excellent choice for a career-focused plumber who is early to mid-career, has a family (or plans to), and wants to build long-term wealth through home equity and a stable job. It's particularly good for those who love the outdoors and don't need big-city amenities. If you're a young, single plumber looking for a vibrant social scene, look to Cheyenne or Laramie instead.

FAQs

Q: Is there a lot of competition for plumbing jobs in a small town like Riverton?
A: Surprisingly, no. The pool of licensed plumbers is limited. While there are a few established companies, they are often looking for qualified journeymen to meet demand. Your biggest competition might be the challenge of getting your initial apprenticeship, but persistence pays off.

Q: What's the deal with the wind? Does it affect plumbing work?
A: Yes, it's a factor. The Wind River Valley is famous for its gusts. For roof work, vent stack installs, and even outdoor service calls, you'll need to plan for windy days. It's also why proper anchoring for outdoor fixtures and irrigation systems is critical. You'll get used to it.

Q: Can I make more money working in a nearby city like Casper or Gillette?
A: The difference in salary is minimal (Casper's median is around $65,000-$68,000). However, Casper's rent is about 30% higher, and the cost of living is higher overall. After expenses, you might save more in Riverton, especially if you buy a home.

Q: What's the best way to find an apprenticeship here?
A: Start by contacting the local companies listed above directly. Also, check with the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services in Riverton. They often have apprenticeship listings. Finally, talk to the Central Wyoming College workforce development office—they sometimes partner with local trades for training programs.

Q: Are there union opportunities (UA Local 1)?
A: The United Association Local 1 (Plumbers & Pipefitters) is based in Casper and covers Wyoming. While there isn't a local hall in Riverton, you can contact the Casper office to see if they have members working in the Riverton area or on specific projects. Non-union work is the dominant model for most plumbers in the region.