Best Job Boards and Recruiters for International Plumbing Jobs

Introduction

If you are a professional plumber in Global looking to relocate to Romania, you are entering one of the most promising labor markets in Central and Eastern Europe. Romania blends EU-backed infrastructure spending, a renovation boom across its cities, and a lower cost of living that lets your salary go further than in many Western European capitals. But the key to a successful move is knowing exactly where to find legitimate job leads, which recruiters actually place plumbers in real roles, and how to navigate Romania's standards and authorizations without losing months to trial and error.

This guide shows you the best job boards, recruitment agencies, and direct-employer channels for international plumbing jobs in Romania. It also covers critical regulations, the recognition of your credentials, realistic salary ranges in EUR and RON, cost-of-living benchmarks by city, and a practical step-by-step relocation plan. Whether your expertise is pipe fitting, sanitary installations, heating systems, or gas fitting with ANRE authorization, you will get the detail you need to move from search to signed contract without missteps.

Why Romania?

Romania offers a compelling package for skilled tradespeople.

EU membership: Romania adheres to EU standards for construction and building services, making it easier to align your skills with recognized norms. Projects benefit from EU funds, especially in infrastructure, energy efficiency upgrades, and public buildings.
Growing demand: From new residential developments to office refurbishments, data centers, logistics parks, and industrial facilities, plumbing and mechanical services are in consistent demand across cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi.
Competitive salaries with lower costs: Plumber salaries in Romania have risen as construction accelerates, and your net income can stretch further than in many EU countries thanks to moderate living costs.
Access to broader markets: Working in Romania places you within the EU framework, making it easier to explore future roles across Europe once you build experience, networks, and certifications aligned with EN standards.
Quality of life: A lively culture, access to mountains and the Black Sea, modern amenities in major cities, and an improving transport network support a strong work-life balance.

Job Market Overview

Romania's plumbing labor market spans residential, commercial, and industrial segments, with specialization opportunities in heating, sanitary systems, fire protection, chilled water, and gas. The following highlights will help you target your search.

Where the work is

Bucharest: The capital has the highest concentration of jobs due to ongoing residential and mixed-use developments, office retrofits, and large facility management contracts. Many national and international contractors have headquarters here.
Cluj-Napoca: A tech and university hub with high-quality residential developments, premium retail, and health facilities. Strong demand for renovation and premium installations.
Timisoara: Western gateway city with industrial parks, logistics hubs, and manufacturing sites. Consistent need for industrial installations and maintenance.
Iasi: A growing northeastern city with university and healthcare expansions, public infrastructure, and utilities projects.

Sectors with steady demand

New construction: Residential blocks, office buildings, retail centers, logistics parks, hotels, and institutional buildings.
Renovation and retrofits: Energy efficiency upgrades, heating system modernization, water-saving fixtures, and pipe replacements in older buildings.
Industrial installations: Process water systems, compressed air lines, fire suppression piping, and sanitary networks in factories.
Facility management: Ongoing maintenance for commercial buildings, hospitals, malls, and office parks.
Utilities: Water utilities and gas distribution networks work with licensed contractors for network expansions and service connections.

Skills that stand out

Familiarity with EU harmonized standards (EN 806 for potable water, EN 12056 for gravity drainage, plus local normative documents commonly referenced in Romania for heating and sanitary systems).
Proficiency with copper, PPR, PEX-AL-PEX, multilayer, and steel systems, including press-fit technologies popular in commercial projects.
Gas fitting knowledge aligned with ANRE authorization levels and practical experience in safe commissioning and leak testing.
Boiler and pressure equipment competencies aligned with ISCIR supervised work environments.
Ability to read technical drawings, isometrics, and schematics with metric dimensions.

Best Job Boards for Plumbing Jobs in Romania

Romania's job market is highly active online. These platforms consistently list plumbing and building services roles. When searching, use both English and Romanian keywords. Try English terms like plumber, pipe fitter, HVAC technician, and Romanian terms like instalator, instalatii sanitare, instalator termic, instalatii termice, instalator gaz, and lacatus mecanic instalatii.

National job boards

eJobs.ro: Romania's largest job portal with frequent listings for plumbers, pipe fitters, and HVAC technicians. Filter by city and category Construction/Installations. Set job alerts and upload a CV in English and optionally Romanian.
BestJobs: Strong coverage across major cities. Use search filters for Experience Level and Employment Type. Many facility management companies post here.
Hipo.ro: Popular with large employers and contractors for technical roles. Look for job families such as Engineering, Maintenance, and Construction.
OLX Locuri de munca: A classifieds platform with many hands-on roles and subcontracting offers. Useful, but vet employers carefully. Look for detailed job posts with registered company names.
MyNextJob: A growing platform that aggregates technical and trade roles. Useful for mid-sized regional employers who may not post on the biggest boards.
Jooble: Aggregates postings from multiple sources. Good for a quick scan of what is active in each city.

International and EU platforms featuring Romania

LinkedIn Jobs: Excellent for mid to large employers, MEP contractors, facility management, and utilities. Follow target companies and set alerts with terms like instalator and HVAC.
Indeed: Aggregates roles from company websites. Try both English and Romanian terms, and set city filters for Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi.
Glassdoor: Helpful for salary insights and HR contacts, even if the raw volume of plumbing roles is lower.
EURES (European Job Mobility Portal): Lists EU roles, sometimes including Romania-based jobs. Useful if you want to compare opportunities across the EU.

Government and public sector channels

ANOFM (National Employment Agency): The public employment service posts vacancies, including technical trades. While not as dynamic as private boards, it is a legitimate source.
Municipal and utility websites: Water utilities and district heating providers occasionally post maintenance and installer roles on their sites. Examples include Bucharest's Apa Nova and Termoenergetica.

How to search smarter

Use Romanian keywords: instalator, instalator sanitar, instalator termic, instalator gaz, instalatii sanitare, instalatii termice, tehnician HVAC, and sef de echipa instalatii (foreman).
Add certifications in your query: ANRE, ISCIR, RSVTI, autorizat gaz, and electrician authorization if relevant for controls.
Save alerts: Platforms like eJobs, BestJobs, and LinkedIn allow alerts by city and keyword.
Apply fast: Many contractors fill roles quickly when new projects mobilize. Rapid response matters.

Recruitment Agencies That Place Plumbers in Romania

Reputable agencies can accelerate your search and help with paperwork. Target agencies with a proven construction or technical focus in Romania.

Adecco Romania: Large footprint with construction, maintenance, and facility roles. Known for temporary-to-permanent pathways.
ManpowerGroup Romania: Active in technical staffing for industry, logistics, and building services.
Randstad Romania: Covers engineering, construction, and FM positions, including shift-based maintenance roles.
Gi Group Romania: Present in industrial hubs, often sourcing for contractors and manufacturers needing MEP support.
Lugera - The People Republic: Longstanding Romanian recruiter with technical and blue-collar divisions.
Trenkwalder Romania: Known for industrial staffing and on-site project teams.
Prohuman APT: Focus on blue-collar and technical placements across multiple regions.
IHM Total Consult: Boutique approach with engineering and technical roles.

How to evaluate an agency:

Ask for their Romanian company registration number and check it on the National Trade Register Office (ONRC) website.
Confirm they do not charge candidate fees. In Romania, reputable agencies do not ask workers for placement fees.
Request a draft employment contract with salary, benefits, location, and schedule before you commit to travel.
Check the agency's client list and ask for references or success stories involving plumbers or HVAC technicians.

Direct Employers Worth Watching

You can also apply directly to contractors and facility managers who frequently hire plumbers and pipe fitters.

Construction and general contractors: Bog'Art, Strabag Romania, PORR Romania, CON-A, Hidroconstructia. These companies deliver large projects with ongoing MEP needs.
MEP and building services contractors: IMSAT (part of the SNEF group), Elsaco, and other regional MEP firms that handle HVAC and sanitary installations.
Facility management companies: Engie Romania (including Engie Services), Veolia Romania, CBRE (integrated FM), and regional FM providers managing office and retail portfolios.
Utilities and related: Apa Nova Bucuresti, Termoenergetica Bucuresti, Distrigaz Sud Retele (part of Engie), and Delgaz Grid. These organizations work with licensed installers and contractors on network and consumer-side projects.

Tip: If a company does not list current openings, use the Careers page to submit a speculative application with a short, targeted cover letter. Many firms mobilize crews on short notice for new contracts and keep strong CVs on file.

How to Spot Real Offers and Avoid Scams

The majority of offers on leading Romanian portals are legitimate, but always verify before committing.

Never pay for a job: Legitimate Romanian recruiters and employers do not charge candidates fees for placement, permits, or training.
Check registration: Verify the company on the Trade Register (ONRC). Many employers list their CUI (tax ID); search this number to confirm they are active.
Contracts in writing: Ensure you receive a written contract with salary in RON, working hours, overtime policy, benefits, job location(s), and employer details. Ask for English and Romanian versions.
Work permit responsibility: For non-EU citizens, the employer must obtain the work authorization (aviz de angajare) before you apply for the long-stay visa. Be wary if they ask you to get the permit yourself.
Verify project sites: Ask for project names and addresses. Reputable employers will share project details and safety requirements.
Red flags: Vague job descriptions, pressure to decide immediately, no company email domain, requests for personal documents before a proper offer, or inconsistent salary promises.

Legal Requirements: Work Permits and Visa Process

Your path depends on your citizenship.

EU/EEA/Swiss citizens

No work permit required. Enter Romania with your national ID/passport.
Register residence: If you stay longer than 90 days, register your residence with the General Inspectorate for Immigration and obtain a registration certificate.
Tax and social security: Obtain a Romanian tax identification number if needed and ensure your employer registers you for social contributions.

Non-EU citizens (Global)

Most plumbers relocating from outside the EU follow this sequence:

Employer sponsorship and work authorization

Your Romanian employer applies for a work authorization (aviz de angajare) from the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI).
Typical documents requested from you: passport copy, CV, proof of qualification or experience, clean criminal record, and medical certificate stating you are fit for work. Documents in foreign languages generally require sworn translations into Romanian and, where applicable, an apostille or legalization.
Processing time: Often 30 days, with possible extensions if documents need clarification.

Long-stay work visa

Once the aviz is approved, you apply for a long-stay work visa at a Romanian consulate in your country. This visa is commonly type D/AM for employment.
You will need the aviz, proof of accommodation arrangements, valid health insurance for the visa period, and supporting documents. The consulate may require proof of funds and a return reservation.
Processing time: Typically up to 60 days, but many visas are issued sooner if the file is complete.

Residence permit in Romania

After entering Romania with your work visa, apply for a residence permit at IGI. This will be tied to your employment contract.
The card is usually valid for the duration of your contract (often 1 year, renewable). Keep copies of your contract, social contribution statements, and proof of address.

Family members

Spouses and dependent children may apply for family reunification based on your residence status. Confirm specific timelines and documentation with IGI or a reputable immigration advisor.

Notes:

Changing employers: If you want to change employer later, you will generally need a new work authorization and an updated residence permit.
Blue Card: The EU Blue Card applies to highly qualified roles with higher salary thresholds and a university degree. It is not typically used for plumbing roles.

Certification and License Recognition

Your credibility rises fast when your qualifications are aligned to Romanian and EU expectations. Here is how to navigate the landscape.

General plumbing qualification (calificare)

Romania recognizes vocational qualifications aligned to national and EU frameworks. If you have a trade certificate or extensive work experience, you can pursue recognition via the National Authority for Qualifications (ANC) or through authorized training centers.
Recognition pathways: Some plumbers obtain a Romanian certificat de calificare profesionala by completing an assessment of prior learning with an authorized provider. Others take short bridging courses if certain competencies need validation.
Documents to prepare: Translated certificates, apprenticeship records, references from employers, and a portfolio of projects (photos, scope descriptions) can support recognition.

Gas fitting authorization (ANRE)

Gas installation work is regulated by ANRE (the National Energy Regulatory Authority). Individual authorization levels and company authorization are both relevant.
If you plan to install or service gas pipelines and appliances, you will need to work under a company authorized by ANRE, and you may need to obtain personal authorization aligned to the tasks you perform.
Expect to present proof of relevant training/experience and pass knowledge assessments. Romanian language support may be necessary for exams; some providers offer guidance.

Boilers, pressure vessels, and ISCIR

ISCIR oversees safety for boilers, pressure equipment, and hoisting equipment. For roles involving boilers and certain pressure installations, employers and personnel must comply with ISCIR rules.
Common roles include boiler operators and responsible persons for supervision (RSVTI). Training and certification are delivered by authorized providers, and companies must maintain compliance documentation.

Safety training

SSM (health and safety at work) and PSI (fire prevention and extinguishing) induction are mandatory for on-site workers in Romania. Expect these during onboarding, with periodic refreshers.

Documentation basics

Sworn translations: Translate your certificates into Romanian. Keep both original and translated versions.
Apostille/legalization: Depending on your country, documents may need an apostille for international recognition.
Keep a digital folder: Store PDFs of passport, visas, diplomas, training cards, references, and portfolio photos for quick sharing with agencies and employers.

Romanian Standards and Technical Differences You Should Know

Romania adopts many EU harmonized standards and has local normative documents referenced by designers and site managers.

Potable water: EN 806 is commonly used for design, installation, and commissioning of water supply systems in buildings.
Drainage: EN 12056 covers gravity drainage inside buildings. Venting and slope rules generally align with this standard.
Heating installations: Local normative documents commonly referenced in Romania guide design and execution of heating systems; designs frequently follow European best practices with metric sizing and efficiency targets.
Fire protection: Project specs often reference EU standards for sprinkler and hydrant systems, with local fire safety norms applicable at design approval and acceptance.
Threads and fittings: Romania typically uses BSP threads (ISO 228) rather than NPT. Ensure your tooling and thread sealants match BSP where threaded joints are used.
Pipe materials: Copper, PPR, PEX-AL-PEX, and multilayer systems are widespread. Press-fit systems are popular in commercial builds. Steel pipe welding is used for plant rooms, risers, and industrial lines.
Metric system: All dimensions are in millimeters, DN for nominal pipe size, and bar for pressure. Keep a metric tape, hex keys, and socket sets suited to metric fasteners.

Salary and Benefits: What to Expect

Salaries vary by city, specialization, and whether you work for a general contractor, an MEP contractor, a facility manager, or a utility. The figures below are realistic ranges as of recent Romanian market conditions.

Entry-level plumber or helper: 3,000 - 4,500 RON net per month (roughly 600 - 900 EUR), often with meal vouchers and overtime opportunities.
Experienced plumber (sanitary and heating): 4,500 - 6,500 RON net per month (about 900 - 1,300 EUR) in major cities.
Pipe fitter with strong schematic reading and press-fit experience: 5,000 - 7,000 RON net per month (1,000 - 1,400 EUR).
Gas fitter with ANRE authorization or boiler technician with ISCIR-related experience: 6,000 - 8,500 RON net per month (1,200 - 1,700 EUR) depending on responsibilities.
Foreman or team leader (sef de echipa instalatii): 6,500 - 9,000 RON net per month (1,300 - 1,800 EUR), sometimes higher on industrial or international contractor sites.
Overtime: Romania's Labor Code requires overtime compensation by paid time off or a premium of at least 75% over the base hourly rate. Weekend and night work can pay more.
Per diem and accommodation: Some project-based roles outside your home city provide accommodation, transport, and daily allowances.
Meal vouchers: Many employers offer meal vouchers (tichete de masa) with a daily value commonly in the 30 - 40 RON range per worked day.
Bonuses: Safety, performance, or project completion bonuses may be offered.

Hourly contract work ranges

Typical net hourly rates: 25 - 45 RON per hour depending on city and complexity.
Industrial shutdowns and night shifts: Higher rates are common.

Always clarify gross versus net in your offer, confirm whether the employer provides accommodation or transport for out-of-town work, and ask how overtime is calculated and scheduled.

Cost of Living in Romanian Cities

Your take-home pay goes further in Romania than in many Western capitals, but costs vary by city.

Bucharest

Rent: 1-bedroom apartment 500 - 900 EUR per month depending on neighborhood and condition.
Utilities: 80 - 150 EUR monthly for a 1-bedroom (seasonal variation for heating).
Transport: Monthly public transport pass commonly 15 - 25 EUR.
Groceries: 200 - 350 EUR per person per month if cooking at home.
Eating out: Lunch menu 6 - 9 EUR; mid-range dinner 12 - 20 EUR per person.

Cluj-Napoca

Rent: 450 - 800 EUR for a 1-bedroom.
Utilities: 70 - 130 EUR.
Transport: 12 - 20 EUR per month.
Groceries and dining: Slightly lower than Bucharest overall, but popular areas can be similar.

Timisoara

Rent: 350 - 600 EUR for a 1-bedroom.
Utilities: 60 - 120 EUR.
Transport: Around 12 - 18 EUR per month.
Food costs: Moderately lower than Bucharest.

Iasi

Rent: 300 - 550 EUR for a 1-bedroom.
Utilities: 60 - 110 EUR.
Transport: Around 10 - 16 EUR per month.
Food costs: Among the more affordable major cities.

Other living costs and tips

Mobile and internet: 7 - 12 EUR per month for a SIM-only plan; 7 - 15 EUR for home broadband depending on speed.
Tools and materials: Major hardware chains and specialty suppliers are easy to find. Imported press tools and jaws can be pricier than in Western Europe.
Health insurance: Employees are usually covered through social contributions. Confirm coverage from day one of your contract.

Cultural Integration and Language Basics

English is common in large companies and among younger colleagues, but basic Romanian will boost your hireability and day-to-day ease.

Useful Romanian terms for plumbers

instalator: plumber
instalatii sanitare: sanitary installations
instalatii termice: heating installations
teava: pipe
fitinguri: fittings
robinet: valve
centrala termica: boiler
calorifer: radiator
conducta gaz: gas pipe
presiune: pressure
etansare: sealing
scurgere: drain
sifon: trap
planseu: slab
santier: site
deviz: bill of quantities/estimate
sef de echipa: team leader

Workplace culture

Punctuality: Being on time matters on Romanian sites. Daily briefing meetings are common at the start of shifts.
Documentation: Site managers expect you to follow method statements, risk assessments, and sign SSM and PSI trainings.
Hierarchy: Foremen and site engineers coordinate tasks. Escalate issues through your immediate lead.
Quality and safety: Photos and sign-offs for concealed work, pressure test reports, and commissioning protocols are standard.

Practical Steps to Relocate: A Step-by-Step Guide

Define your target city and sector

Choose between Bucharest for volume of roles, Cluj-Napoca for premium residential and tech-related builds, Timisoara for industrial sites, or Iasi for steady growth.
Decide between new build, renovation, industrial, or facility maintenance.

Prepare a Romania-ready CV

One-page or two-page CV in English. Include a short Romanian summary if possible.
List certifications: trade qualification, ANRE (if any), ISCIR-related training, safety cards, and any EU-aligned courses.
Include a project portfolio: a PDF with photos and short notes on pipe sizes, materials, and your role.

Set up job board alerts and agency contacts

Register on eJobs, BestJobs, Hipo, LinkedIn, Indeed, and Jooble. Save searches with Romanian keywords.
Identify 3 to 5 agencies specialized in construction and MEP. Email your CV and portfolio and request a short call.

Verify offers

Ask for the employer's company registration and project references.
Request a draft contract listing salary in RON, site location, schedule, overtime rate, accommodation, and per diem.

Align your certifications

Gather your trade certificate and references. Translate and apostille where required.
If aiming for gas work, plan for ANRE authorization steps and language support.
For boiler-related roles, prepare to document ISCIR-relevant experience.

Work permit and visa (non-EU citizens)

Employer applies for the work authorization (aviz de angajare).
After approval, apply for the D/AM work visa at a Romanian consulate.
On arrival, apply for your residence permit at IGI.

Housing and arrival logistics

Book temporary housing for 2 to 4 weeks in your target city.
View long-term rentals in person. Prepare a deposit (usually one or two months) and ID/residence documents.
Set up a local SIM and bank account. Ask your employer for assistance letters if the bank requests proof of employment.

Onboarding and site readiness

Complete SSM and PSI training.
Confirm PPE and tools required. Many employers provide PPE and heavy tools; bring personal hand tools that fit metric and BSP systems.
Review plans and specifications. Confirm material brands and press systems used.

Family relocation

If bringing family later, plan school enrollments, health insurance, and housing near transport. Larger cities have more international schooling options.

Build your network

Join local trade communities and online groups in your city.
Ask your foreman for additional training opportunities, like new press systems or commissioning protocols.

Success Tips From Other Expats

Learn job-specific Romanian quickly: Focus on installation vocabulary, numbers, measurements, and safety phrases. Even 2 to 3 weeks of practice can speed up your integration on site.
Show your portfolio early: Hiring managers in Romania respond well to pictures and brief notes that prove you can deliver clean runs, correct slopes, professional penetrations, and tidy plant room layouts.
Ask about standards before you start: Clarify which standards and local normative documents the project uses, then match your method statements accordingly.
Be ready for mixed systems: Many projects combine PPR for risers and copper or multilayer for apartments. Show you can switch methods and maintain quality.
Keep records: Take photos before closing walls, after pressure tests, and at commissioning. It helps with punch lists and protects you if disputes arise.
Respect the chain of command: Romania's crews value team discipline. Raise issues through your foreman; do not bypass agreed site procedures.
Protect your weekends: Agree on overtime policy from the outset. Romania values work-life balance, and many employers will schedule rest days after intense periods.

Conclusion: Your Next Steps

Romania is hiring skilled plumbers now. With a clear plan, verified recruiters, and the right keywords on the top job boards, you can secure a stable role with EU standards exposure and a strong quality of life. Start by shortlisting target cities, updating your CV and portfolio, and setting job alerts with Romanian keywords. Contact 3 to 5 reputable agencies, apply directly to known contractors, and insist on written contracts with full details. If you are non-EU, coordinate closely with your employer on the work authorization and visa steps. With your skills and this roadmap, Romania can be your most strategic career move in the European market.

FAQ

1) Do I need to speak Romanian to get hired as a plumber?

English can be enough for some international contractors and facility managers, but basic Romanian increases your chances and speed on site. Learn trade terms like instalator, teava, fitinguri, robinet, centrala termica, and scurgere. Many safety briefings and method statements will be in Romanian.

2) Which Romanian cities offer the most plumbing jobs?

Bucharest has the most roles overall, followed by Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi. Industrial areas around Timisoara and Cluj have consistent needs for pipe fitters and maintenance technicians. Regional capitals often offer stable utilities and facility management roles.

3) How long does the work permit and visa process take for non-EU citizens?

Expect around 1 to 3 months total. The employer's work authorization can take about 30 days. The long-stay work visa often takes several weeks after that. You then apply for a residence permit inside Romania. Timing improves with complete, properly translated documents.

4) Are my foreign plumbing certificates recognized in Romania?

Yes, but you may need translations, apostilles, and a recognition pathway through ANC or an authorized training provider. For gas work, ANRE authorization applies. For boiler and pressure equipment, ISCIR-related rules apply. Many employers will sponsor or guide you through the necessary steps.

5) What salaries should I expect?

Experienced plumbers in major cities often earn 4,500 - 6,500 RON net per month, with gas or boiler specializations earning more. Foremen can reach 6,500 - 9,000 RON net. Overtime, per diem, and accommodation can increase the total package.

6) What are typical benefits in Romanian plumbing jobs?

Meal vouchers are common, plus overtime premiums, transport allowances or site transport, accommodation for out-of-town projects, and occasional bonuses. Confirm all benefits in your contract.

7) Can I bring my family with me?

Yes. After you secure your residence permit, your spouse and dependent children can apply for family reunification. Prepare marriage and birth certificates with translations and apostilles as needed.

8) Can I change employers after arriving?

Often yes, but you will generally need a new work authorization and to update your residence permit. Coordinate timing to avoid gaps in legal status. Review your employment contract for notice periods.

9) Should I bring my own tools?

Bring essential hand tools that you prefer and that fit metric and BSP systems. Many employers supply heavy tools and press equipment, but having your own hand tools speeds up productivity. Confirm tool policies before you travel.

10) How do I avoid job scams?

Use reputable job boards like eJobs, BestJobs, and LinkedIn; verify company registration on ONRC; never pay for a job; and insist on a written contract that details salary, schedule, and site location. If an offer seems too good to be true or the employer pressures you to act immediately, step back and verify.