Helpers--Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
Help plumbers, pipefitters, steamfitters, or pipelayers by performing duties requiring less skill. Duties include using, supplying, or holding materials or tools, and cleaning work area and equipment.
Common Job Titles
- Plumber's Helper
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onHandle pipes, tools, and materials on construction sites, supporting plumbers and pipefitters under direct supervision.Developing
- Hands-onOperate pipe cutters, benders, and threading machines following safety procedures and under journeyman supervision.Developing
- Hands-onExecute equipment maintenance and work area cleaning tasks maintaining safe work environments according to public safety protocols.Developing
- Hands-onManipulate wrenches, levels, and measuring tapes to prepare work sites and position materials accurately.Developing
- KnowledgeApply mathematical calculations for measurements and material quantities supporting layout and installation tasks under supervision.Developing
- MindsetRespect safety regulations and team protocols when working with heavy equipment and in confined spaces.Developing
- KnowledgeIdentify pipe threading machines, welding equipment, and hand tools by matching tool specifications to work requirements following established protocols.Emerging
- KnowledgeClassify building materials and plumbing components using knowledge of mechanical systems and construction standards.Emerging
- MindsetFollow verbal instructions from plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters demonstrating active listening and coordination on job sites.Emerging
- KnowledgeExplain basic piping system components and their functions when assisting with inspections and equipment setup.Emerging
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Helpers--Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
43,640
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $31,050. 25th percentile: U.S. $35,750. 50th percentile: U.S. $39,270. 75th percentile: U.S. $46,550. 90th percentile: U.S. $54,860. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $31,050 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $54,860 |
| Workers on average earn | $41,720 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Building and Construction4.5/5
- Customer and Personal Service3.7/5
- Mechanical3.6/5
- Mathematics3.5/5
- English Language3.3/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Word
Tools & Equipment
- Adjustable wrenches
- Air compressors
- Air hammers
- Air operated grinders
- Air pressure gauges
- Air wire brushes
- Aligning clamps
- Allen wrenches