Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters

What plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters do

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.

Typical tasks

1. 1Shut off steam, water, or other gases or liquids from pipe sections, using valve keys or wrenches.
2. 2Install underground storm, sanitary, or water piping systems, extending piping as needed to connect fixtures and plumbing.
3. 3Assemble pipe sections, tubing, or fittings, using couplings, clamps, screws, bolts, cement, plastic solvent, caulking, or soldering, brazing, or welding equipment.
4. 4Locate and mark the position of pipe installations, connections, passage holes, or fixtures in structures, using measuring instruments such as rulers or levels.
5. 5Cut, thread, or hammer pipes to specifications, using tools such as saws, cutting torches, pipe threaders, or pipe benders.
6. 6Lay out full scale drawings of pipe systems, supports, or related equipment, according to blueprints.
7. 7Plan pipe system layout, installation, or repair, according to specifications.
8. 8Review blueprints, building codes, or specifications to determine work details or procedures.
9. 9Select pipe sizes, types, or related materials, such as supports, hangers, or hydraulic cylinders, according to specifications.
10. 10Fill pipes or plumbing fixtures with water or air and observe pressure gauges to detect and locate leaks.

Technology used

• Intuit QuickBooks
• Microsoft Active Server Pages ASP
• Microsoft Excel
• Microsoft Office software
• Microsoft Word

How to become one

Education

The most common level among workers surveyed is a post-secondary certificate (43%). Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.

Experience

Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.

Training

Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.