Lead Plumber

Company Overview

Upchurch is a rapidly growing, full-service building engineering company providing mechanical, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical services across the southeastern United States. Founded in 1970 and headquartered in Horn Lake, MS, Upchurch has grown through both organic expansion and strategic acquisitions, establishing a strong reputation for quality, reliability, and service excellence. We offer end-to-end solutions—from design and installation to ongoing maintenance and emergency support—helping clients maximize building performance, energy efficiency, and equipment lifespan.

Lead the planning, installation, maintenance, and repair of plumbing systems for commercial/industrial projects and service work. Own job quality, safety, and crew productivity from pre-task planning through close-out. Serve as the field’s primary technical resource, coordinating materials, inspections, and subcontractors while mentoring junior plumbers and apprentices. Partner closely with the Project Manager/Service Manager to deliver work on time, on budget, and to code.

• Plan daily/weekly work: review drawings, specs, and submittals; perform takeoffs; stage tools/materials; sequence tasks.

• Install, troubleshoot, and repair piping and fixtures (water, waste, vent, storm, gas, medical gas*), pumps, heaters, RPZ/backflow devices, and related controls.

• Read and interpret blueprints/ISOs; lay out and verify elevations/rough-ins; perform accurate measurements and cuts.

• Ensure code compliance (IPC/UPC/local), pull/close permits, coordinate inspections, and complete as-builts/close-out docs.

• Lead and develop a crew of 2–8 (journeymen/apprentices): assign work, coach, enforce safety/quality, track hours.

• Drive safety excellence: JHAs/permits, lockout/tagout, confined space and hot work procedures, PPE compliance, and housekeeping.

• Coordinate with GC, other trades, and vendors; communicate progress, constraints, RFIs, and change impacts proactively.

• Manage materials and equipment: order, receive, inventory, and protect; minimize waste and prevent rework.

• Perform quality checks and pressure tests; commission systems and turnover to owner’s satisfaction.

• Document work daily (reports, photos), maintain tools/vehicles, and uphold company standards and customer service.

* Medical gas tasks apply if certified and project-specific.

• 5–8+ years progressive plumbing experience with 2+ years in a lead/foreman role (commercial/industrial preferred).

• Valid Journeyman or Master Plumber license (state/local as applicable); backflow tester certification preferred.

• Proven blueprint reading, layout, and code knowledge (IPC/UPC, NFPA 54/99 for gas/med gas where applicable).

• Hands-on proficiency with copper, PEX, cast iron, PVC/CPVC, black/galvanized steel, grooved and welded systems.

• Experience with pressure testing, start-up/commissioning, and coordinating inspections/permit close-out.

• Strong leadership and communication skills; ability to plan work, set pace, and train apprentices.

• Safety-first mindset with working knowledge of OSHA 10/30 practices and job hazard analysis.

• Basic digital skills for timekeeping, daily reports, RFIs, and photo documentation; familiarity with tablets/apps.

• Physical ability to lift 50+ lbs, climb/stand for extended periods, and work in varying conditions; valid driver’s license.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary based on experience.

• Health, dental, and vision insurance.

• Paid time off and holiday pay.

• Opportunities for professional development and certification assistance.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Upchurch Companies provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.