Crafts

Pipefitter

A pipefitter is a skilled tradesperson who specializes in installing, assembling, and maintaining various piping systems used to transport fluids and gases in industrial, commercial, and residential settings. These professionals work with a wide range of materials, including metal, plastic, and composite pipes, and use their expertise to ensure proper connections and secure fittings. Pipefitters play a crucial role in constructing and repairing pipelines for water supply, heating, cooling, drainage, gas, and other applications, ensuring efficient and safe flow within buildings, factories, refineries, and ships.

Avg pay/year

low

Apprentice

$39,700

med

Journeyman

$79,880

high

Master

$112,920

Months apprentice

48

Number of jobs

482,700

Projected Yearly Job Openings

48,600

Figures based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Featured articles

Pipefitter vs Pipelayer - What to Know About These TradesIn the construction industry, pipefitters and pipelayers play distinct roles with their own key responsibilities and...

Trade paths

7

General Pipefitter

A general pipefitter is a skilled tradesperson who specializes in installing, assembling, and maintaining piping systems used for conveying liquids, gases, and chemicals. They work in various industries, including construction, manufacturing, and utilities, ensuring that pipelines and associated components function correctly and safely, often involving welding and threading pipes.

Cleanroom Pipefitter

A cleanroom pipefitter is a specialized professional who installs, assembles, and maintains piping systems within controlled environments called cleanrooms. These highly controlled spaces are used in industries like pharmaceuticals and electronics manufacturing, requiring precise installation to maintain strict cleanliness and contamination standards, ensuring product quality and safety.

Gasfitter

A gasfitter is a specialized tradesperson responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing gas piping systems. They work with natural gas and propane lines in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. Their expertise lies in handling the complexities of gas systems, including gas pressure regulation and safety measures. Gasfitters play a vital role in ensuring the proper functioning of gas lines, preventing leaks, and safeguarding the well-being of occupants in buildings and facilities where gas is utilized.

Marine Pipefitter

A marine pipefitter is a skilled tradesperson who works in shipyards and aboard ships, specializing in the installation, maintenance, and repair of piping systems on marine vessels. They handle various types of pipes and fittings to transport fuel, water, steam, and other fluids essential for the vessel's operation. Marine pipefitters ensure the proper functioning of piping networks, contributing to the efficient and safe operation of ships and maritime equipment, crucial for marine transportation and industry activities.

Medical Gas Fitter

A medical gas fitter is a specialized professional responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing gas systems in healthcare facilities. They ensure the proper distribution of medical gases, such as oxygen, nitrous oxide, and vacuum, essential for patient care and medical procedures. Medical gas fitters adhere to strict safety standards and regulations, guaranteeing that these medical gas systems are reliable, leak-free, and meet the specific needs of healthcare settings, contributing to the well-being and treatment of patients and medical staff.

Sprinkler Fitter

A sprinkler fitter is a specialized tradesperson who installs, maintains, and repairs fire sprinkler systems in buildings and structures. They work with piping networks, fittings, and control devices to ensure the effective distribution of water in case of a fire emergency. Sprinkler fitters play a critical role in fire protection by implementing systems that automatically activate to suppress fires. They understand fire codes and hydraulic principles and use the right components to create reliable and efficient fire suppression systems.

Steamfitter

A steamfitter is a specialized pipefitter that focuses on working with high-pressure steam systems in industrial and commercial settings. They are skilled tradespeople responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing pipes that carry steam for heating, power generation, and other industrial processes. Steamfitters possess expertise in handling the unique challenges of steam systems, including high temperatures and pressures, and ensure safe and efficient operations. They play a critical role in industries like refineries, power plants, and manufacturing facilities.

Pipefitter

Avg pay/year

$39,700

$79,880

$112,920

48

482,700

48,600

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Trade paths

7

Skills

0

Certifications and Credentials

0

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