Plumbing Careers at Downing

Do you value professionalism and punctuality? Do you want to work with the best professionals in the plumbing industry? If you are an individual who values a rewarding career and would like your customers to be genuinely satisfied, you may be a match for our team.

WHY DOWNING

A Company Worth Building a Career At

Stable Since 1950

Downing Plumbing has been a fixture in Northwest Indiana for over 75 years. You're joining a company with deep roots, a loyal customer base, and steady work year-round.

Competitive Pay

Wages based on your experience and productivity — plus performance bonuses and incentive opportunities that reward you for doing great work.

Professional Team

We hold ourselves to a high standard of conduct, safety, and customer satisfaction. You'll work alongside people who take their craft seriously and treat every customer right.

Advancement Opportunities

We promote from within and invest in our people. Whether you're working toward your first license or sharpening a skill, there's room to grow here.

NOW HIRING

Open Positions

A representative sampling of positions is listed below. If you see a position you feel qualified for, apply online or download a printable application .

Lead Plumber

Full-Time 📍 Merrillville, IN
Apply Online

A lead plumber serves the clients of the company by expertly servicing, repairing, and replacing plumbing systems. As a professional plumber with our company, you will maximize lead opportunities based on the company's business plan. You will also adhere to a goal of 100% work satisfaction, observe company safety measures, and present a professional attitude and appearance.

Qualifications & Requirements

  • Valid driver's license with a clean driving record
  • 1+ years of plumbing experience (preferred)
  • Residential and/or commercial plumbing experience
  • Strong organizational and problem-solving capabilities
  • Ability to pass a background check and drug screening
  • Professional attitude and appearance — you represent Downing to our customers

Primary Responsibilities

  • Installation and service of plumbing systems and products
  • Diagnose and resolve plumbing problems efficiently
  • Direct client interaction to address customer needs
  • Communicate effectively with clients, coworkers, and dispatch
  • Work independently or lead on multi-tech jobs as needed
  • Maintain vehicle and workspace to company standards

What We Offer

  • Very competitive wages based on experience and productivity
  • Performance-based bonuses & incentive opportunities
  • 40+ hours of year-round work — no seasonal layoffs
  • Fully stocked company service vehicle
  • Uniforms provided
  • Health insurance
  • Paid vacation
  • Advancement opportunities

Apprentice Plumber

Full-Time 📍 Merrillville, IN
Apply Online

Downing Plumbing has been training great plumbers since 1950. If you're new to the trade or working toward your license, we'll pair you with an experienced technician, pay you while you learn, and support your path to full licensure. If you're mechanically inclined, reliable, and ready to build a career with your hands, we want to hear from you.

Qualifications & Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Valid driver's license with a clean driving record
  • Mechanically minded with a strong work ethic and eagerness to learn
  • Enrolled in — or willing to enroll in — a state-approved apprenticeship program
  • Physically able to lift 75 lbs and work in confined spaces
  • Ability to pass a background check and drug screening

Primary Responsibilities

  • Assist licensed plumbers on residential and commercial service calls
  • Learn proper installation and service of plumbing systems
  • Handle material transport, site preparation, and cleanup
  • Communicate professionally with clients and coworkers
  • Complete required apprenticeship program coursework
  • Maintain a clean and organized workspace and vehicle

What We Offer

  • Competitive starting wages — increase as you advance through the program
  • Direct mentorship from licensed master plumbers
  • Support for apprenticeship program enrollment
  • Health insurance
  • Paid vacation
  • Clear path to journeyman and master licensure
  • Advancement opportunities within the company

Prefer paper? Download our printable employment application (PDF) — fill it out and bring it in or mail it to our office at 8183 Grand Blvd, Merrillville, IN 46410.

BENEFITS

What Comes with the Job

Competitive Wages + Performance Bonuses

Fully Stocked Company Service Vehicle

Uniforms Provided

Paid Vacation

Health Insurance

40+ Hours of Year-Round Work

Advancement Opportunities

Professional, Supportive Team

HOW TO APPLY

Ready to Apply?

Apply online using the button on any open position above, or download our printable application and bring it in or mail it to our office. You can also call or email us directly — we're happy to answer any questions before you apply.

Downing Plumbing is an Equal Opportunity Employer and will not discriminate against employees or applicants on any legally recognized basis. Employees are expected to adhere to a standard of conduct and safety.

We look forward to the opportunity to exceed your expectations.

Apply online or download the form

Submit the online application for the position you're interested in, or download and complete the printable PDF.

We'll be in touch

A quick phone call first to get acquainted, then an in-person meeting with the team.

Background check & screening

All candidates complete a standard background check and drug screening prior to an offer.

Start date & onboarding

We work around your notice period and make sure you're set up for success from day one.

READY TO GET STARTED?

Need Plumbing Service?

Whether you need drain cleaning, sewer repair, water heater service, sump pump repairs, or emergency plumbing help, Downing Plumbing is ready to help.

Call Now Schedule Service