Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
Assemble, install, alter, and repair pipelines or pipe systems that carry water, steam, air, or other liquids or gases. May install heating and cooling equipment and mechanical control systems. Includes sprinkler fitters.
Common Job Titles
- Pipefitter
- Plumber
- Sprinkler Fitter
- Steamfitter
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeTroubleshoot malfunctioning pipe systems and mechanical equipment using pressure gauges, leak detection devices, and diagnostic tools to identify failures.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate installed pipe systems for compliance with building codes and safety standards using pressure testing equipment and inspection procedures.Proficient
- Hands-onAssemble pipe systems and mechanical control systems using welding equipment, pipe threaders, and hand tools following technical specifications.Developing
- Hands-onOperate pipe cutting, threading, and bending equipment to fabricate piping components for water, steam, and gas distribution systems.Developing
- KnowledgeAnalyze building blueprints and technical specifications to determine pipe layout, material requirements, and equipment placement for installations.Developing
- Hands-onExecute welding, soldering, and brazing operations on various pipe materials following safety protocols and quality standards.Developing
- Hands-onPerform repairs and alterations on existing pipelines and fixtures in residential, commercial, and industrial settings under time constraints.Developing
- KnowledgeCalculate material quantities, pipe dimensions, and system capacities using mathematical formulas and hydraulic principles for project planning.Developing
- MindsetEngage with customers to assess service needs and explain repair options, demonstrating professionalism and service orientation in direct interactions.Developing
- KnowledgeInterpret mechanical drawings and piping isometric diagrams using CAD software and design knowledge to coordinate installation with construction teams.Developing
- Hands-onManipulate specialized tools and equipment including pipe vises, flaring tools, and drain cleaning machines to complete installations and service calls efficiently.Developing
- MindsetParticipate in safety training and regulatory compliance activities, maintaining knowledge of public safety codes and hazardous material handling procedures.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
455,940
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $40,670. 25th percentile: U.S. $48,860. 50th percentile: U.S. $62,970. 75th percentile: U.S. $81,900. 90th percentile: U.S. $105,150. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $40,670 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $105,150 |
| Workers on average earn | $69,940 |
+ 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 Construction4.3/5
- Mechanical4.3/5
- Design3.8/5
- Mathematics3.8/5
- Customer and Personal Service3.6/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Intuit QuickBooks
- Microsoft Active Server Pages ASP
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Word
Technology Skills
- AEC Design Group CADPIPE
- Atlas Construction Business Forms
- Autodesk Building Systems
- Bentley Systems AutoPIPE
- Bookkeeping software
- COADE CAESAR II
- Computer aided design CAD software
- Database software
Tools & Equipment
- Acetylene torches
- Adjustable slip lock nut wrenches
- Adjustable wrenches
- Air compressors
- Air operated grinders
- Air pressure gauges
- Air wire brushes
- Air-acetylene torches