Just about the most significant career decisions that any new plumber is likely to make is whether to be a union plumber or as a non-union plumber. While traditionally labor unions have given their members with superior earnings as well as health and other benefits, the differential in these areas between union and non-union positions has fallen considerably over the last number of years. The explanation for this appears to be the countrywide shortage of skilled plumbers. Today, plumbers at all levels can discover excellent job opportunities with either union or non-union companies that offer you terrific wages, health care insurance, disability insurance, vacation time, sick time, 401k and pension programs, education tuition assistance and plenty of additional benefits. In some instances, based upon the role, a company vehicle could possibly be made available too. The biggest differences between union and non-union plumbing positions are the apprenticeship programs, continuing education and types of work that the plumbing professional will be taking care of.