Plumbers and Pipefitters
Additional Information
Duties
Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters usually perform the following tasks:
- Create cost estimates for clients.
- Read blueprints and comply with state and local building codes.
- Determine the necessary materials and equipment for a job.
- Install pipes and fixtures.
- Inspect and test installed pipe systems and pipelines.
- Troubleshoot malfunctioning systems.
- Maintain and repair plumbing systems.
While they have specific roles, they share common duties. They all install pipes and fittings for water, gas, and other substances, determine the required materials, connect pipes, and test pressure to ensure the system is airtight and watertight. Their tools include drills, saws, welding torches, press fitting tools, and drain cleaning tools.
The materials and techniques they use vary by project. For instance, residential water systems use copper, steel, and plastic pipes, typically installed by one or two plumbers. Industrial plant water systems, however, use large steel pipes that require a team of pipefitters.
Experienced plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters often supervise apprentices and helpers. Master plumbers on construction jobs may help design blueprints that show the placement of pipes and fixtures, ensuring compliance with building codes, budget constraints, and compatibility with other building features. Many plans are created digitally using Building Information Modeling (BIM), allowing for collaborative planning of a building's physical systems.
Specific tasks include:
- Plumbers: Install and repair water, gas, and other piping systems in homes, businesses, and factories. They also install plumbing fixtures like bathtubs and toilets, and appliances such as dishwashers and water heaters. Additionally, they clean drains, remove obstructions, and maintain septic systems.
- Pipefitters and Steamfitters: Install and maintain pipes that carry chemicals, acids, and gases in industrial settings. They work on pipe systems in power plants and heating and cooling systems in large buildings. Steamfitters specialize in high-pressure systems, while other fitters may specialize in gas or sprinkler systems.
Education
To become a plumber, pipefitter, or steamfitter, you usually need a high school diploma or equivalent. Vocational-technical schools offer courses in pipe system design, safety, tool use, and welding, which are often required for pipefitter and steamfitter apprenticeships.
Training
Most people in these trades learn through a 4- or 5-year apprenticeship, which includes 2,000 hours of paid on-the-job training and technical instruction each year. The technical instruction covers safety, local plumbing codes and regulations, blueprint reading, mathematics, applied physics, and chemistry. Apprenticeships are typically sponsored by unions, trade associations, and businesses. While many start directly in an apprenticeship, some begin as helpers or through pre-apprenticeship training programs.
To become journey-level workers, plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters must complete an apprenticeship program and pass a licensing exam. Journey-level workers can work independently. With additional experience and passing another exam, plumbers can achieve master status. Some states require this status to get a plumbing contractor’s license.
Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations
Most states and some local areas require plumbers to be licensed, which generally involves 2 to 5 years of experience and passing an exam to demonstrate knowledge of the trade. Plumbers can also pursue optional certifications, such as in plumbing design, to expand career opportunities. Most employers also require plumbers to have a driver’s license.
Some states require pipefitters and steamfitters to be licensed, and they may need a special license for gas lines, which usually involves an exam or work experience, or both. For specific requirements, contact your state’s licensing board.
Advancement
After becoming licensed at the journey level, plumbers can advance to master plumber, supervisor, or project manager. Some may choose to start their own business as independent contractors, which might require additional licensing.
Pay
In May 2023, the median annual salary for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters was $61,550. This means that half of the workers in this field earned more than this amount, while the other half earned less. The lowest 10 percent made less than $38,690, and the top 10 percent earned over $103,140.
Job Projections
The number of jobs for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters is expected to increase by 2 percent from 2022 to 2032, which is roughly the same rate as the average for all occupations.
