Plumbers and Pipefitters

Career summary

#No alternate titles CJ

Plumbers and pipefitters are considered a single trade. Usually workers specialize in one area.

Plumbers install and repair water, waste, and gas systems in homes and commercial buildings. Pipefitters install and repair pipe systems used in manufacturing. They also work on pipe systems that provide heating and cooling for buildings. Some pipefitters specialize in one type of system. For example, they may specialize in hospital work, where they install oxygen and gas lines. Or they may focus on more efficient systems, such as solar water heating or grey water systems. Steamfitters install pipe systems that move liquids or gases under high pressure.

All three types of plumbers have many tasks in common. They study blueprints, drawings, and building codes. They inspect buildings to determine what materials to use. They select pipe sizes and types according to requirements. They also select other materials, such as supports or hangers. Plumbers lay out the job and try to fit piping into the building with the least amount of waste. They measure and mark where pipes will be installed. They must plan the layout of pipes around other systems, like electrical wires. Plumbers cut holes in walls, ceilings, or floors where the pipes will go. For large pipe systems, they may hang steel supports from ceiling joists.

Plumbers cut and bend the lengths of pipe, using saws, pipe cutters, and pipe-bending machines. They assemble the pipe system. Plumbers install the pipe, fixtures, and appliances. They connect the system to water, gas, or sewer lines. They also check the system with pressure gauges to be sure it is free from leaks and operates properly.

Plumbers also repair and maintain plumbing. They replace defective fittings and broken pipes. They open clogged drains. They also modify existing pipe systems and maintain related equipment. Sometimes plumbers operate pump equipment to remove water from flooded areas, such as basements or manholes. For large jobs, plumbers may direct other workers in cutting, assembling, and installing pipe systems.

The government gives tax refunds for installing equipment that saves water. Plumbers may install water saving devices like low flow shower heads. Plumbers also set up pipe systems to direct water to gardens using recycled water from baths or showers. Others install solar water heaters or tankless water heaters.

Plumbers who operate their own business often provide quotes to customers. They may also negotiate contracts. They keep records and reports of all the work they do.

Related careers

This career is part of the Architecture and Construction cluster of careers.

Related careers include:

• Airplane Assemblers
• Building Maintenance Workers
• Commercial Divers
• Electricians
• Heating and Cooling System Mechanics
• Security and Fire Alarm Systems Installers

Military careers

• Plumbers and Pipe Fitters

Job duties

Task list

The following list of tasks is specific to plumbers and pipefitters.

• Study blueprints, drawings, and building codes. Inspect structures to determine materials and layout. Give out information on refund programs for saving water.
• Select pipe sizes and types and related materials, such as supports, according to needs.
• Lay out job to fit piping into structure of building with least amount of waste.
• Measure and mark areas for pipe installation. Check for obstructions and plan layout around them.
• Cut holes in walls, ceilings, and floors, or hang steel supports.
• Cut and bend lengths of pipe. Use saws, pipe cutters, and pipe-bending machines.
• Join pipe with fittings, using glues, solder, and computer-assisted welding.
• Install assembled pipe, fixtures, and appliances.
• Connect system to water, sewer, or geothermal power systems.
• Check water systems for proper fit, efficiency, and operation.
• Repair and maintain plumbing. Replace defective fittings and broken pipes or open clogged drains. May also modify pipe systems and maintain related equipment.
• Operate motorized pump to remove water from flooded areas.
• Direct other workers in pipe cutting, pre-assembly, and installation.
• Perform home audits and cost calculations to show water or energy savings.
• May prepare cost estimates for clients. Negotiate contracts.
• Save water by building and installing solar hot water heaters, grey water systems, and low flow faucets.
• May install oxygen and medical gas lines in hospitals.
• Keep records of all work done.

Common work activities

Plumbers and pipefitters perform the following tasks. These tasks are common to many careers.

• Perform activities that use the whole body
• Get information needed to do the job
• Inspect equipment, structures, or materials
• Handle and move objects
• Identify objects, actions, and events
• Make decisions and solve problems
• Evaluate information against standards
• Control machines and processes
• Operate vehicles or mechanized equipment
• Communicate with supervisors, peers, or subordinates
• Monitor events, materials, and surroundings
• Update and use job-related knowledge
• Repair and maintain mechanical equipment
• Coordinate the work and activities of others
• Organize, plan, and prioritize work
• Think creatively
• Judge the value of objects, services, or people
• Schedule work and activities
• Process information
• Teach others

Work requirements

Working conditions

In a typical work setting, plumbers and pipefitters:

Interpersonal relationships

• Have a medium level of social contact. They often work alone, but also talk to supervisors and customers.
• Communicate by telephone and in person on a daily basis.
• Are greatly responsible for the health and safety of others.
• Are greatly responsible for the work done by others (usually those they might supervise).
• May work as part of a work group or team.
• May on occasion be placed in a conflict situation. People might disagree on scheduling, for example.

Physical work conditions

• Work both indoors and outdoors. Plumbers may spend more time indoors. Outdoors sites may be covered.
• Are exposed to hazardous equipment on a weekly basis.
• Are often exposed to hazardous situations that may produce cuts or burns.
• Regularly wear safety and protective attire.
• Are sometimes exposed to cramped work places that require getting into awkward positions.
• Are exposed to very hot or very cold temperatures when working. Indoor spaces might not be temperature-controlled, and the weather outdoors is unpredictable.
• Are sometimes exposed to contaminants.
• Are sometimes exposed to sounds and noise levels that are distracting and uncomfortable.
• May on occasion be exposed to high places, such as scaffolds.
• May occasionally be exposed to extremely bright or low light conditions.
• Work near others. They often share the same work space with others.

Work performance

• Must be sure that all details are done and their work is exact. Errors could have serious consequences for the safety of workers.
• Make decisions that strongly impact their employer, customers, and other employees on a daily basis. They make most decisions without talking to a supervisor first.
• Set most of their daily tasks and goals without consulting a supervisor first.
• Work in a moderately competitive atmosphere. They must abide by strict weekly deadlines.
• May repeat the same physical and mental activities.

Hours/travel

• Usually work a schedule set by conditions such as weather, length of contract, or the demands of a project.
• Most work at least full time. Overtime work is common.
• May work evening or weekend shifts or be on-call, when involved in maintenance work.

Physical demands

Plumbers and pipefitters frequently:

• Use their hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls.
• Stand for long periods of time.
• Bend or twist their body.
• Walk or run for long periods of time.
• Repeat the same movements.
• Climb ladders, scaffolds, or poles.
• Kneel, stoop, crouch, or crawl.

It is important for plumbers and pipefitters to be able to:

• See details of objects that are less than a few feet away.
• Hold the arm and hand in one position or hold the hand steady while moving the arm.
• Use one or two hands to grasp, move, or assemble objects.
• Move two or more limbs together (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while remaining in place.
• Make quick, precise adjustments to machine controls.
• Use fingers to grasp, move, or assemble very small objects.
• Bend, stretch, twist, or reach out.
• Use stomach and lower back muscles to support the body for long periods without getting tired.
• Keep or regain the body's balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
• Understand the speech of another person.
• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
• Use muscles to lift, push, pull, or carry heavy objects.

It is not as important, but still necessary, for plumbers and pipefitters to be able to:

• Determine the distance between objects.
• Coordinate movement of several parts of the body, such as arms and legs, while the body is moving.
• See details of objects that are more than a few feet away.
• Focus on one source of sound and ignore others.
• See differences between colors, shades, and brightness.
• React quickly using hands, fingers, or feet.
• Choose quickly and correctly among various movements when responding to different signals.
• Hear sounds and recognize the difference between them.
• Use muscles for extended periods without getting tired.
• Be physically active for long periods without getting tired or out of breath.
• Adjust body movements or equipment controls to keep pace with speed changes of moving objects.
• Move arms and legs quickly.
• Make fast, repeated movements of fingers, hands, and wrists.
• See objects in very bright or glaring light.
• While looking forward, see objects or movements that are off to the side.

Skills and abilities

Plumbers and pipefitters need to:

Communicate

• Understand spoken information.
• Listen to others and ask questions.
• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
• Understand written information.
• Read and understand work-related materials.

Reason and problem solve

• Notice when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong.
• Use reasoning to discover answers to problems.
• Analyze ideas and use logic to determine their strengths and weaknesses.
• Combine several pieces of information and draw conclusions.
• Follow guidelines to arrange objects or actions in a certain order.
• Judge the costs and benefits of a possible action.
• Concentrate and not be distracted while performing a task.
• Recognize the nature of a problem.
• Think of new ideas about a topic.
• Develop rules that group items in various ways.
• Understand new information or materials by studying and working with them.

Manage oneself, people, time, and things

• Manage the time of self and others.
• Check how well one is learning or doing something.

Work with people

• Change behavior in relation to others' actions.

Work with things

• Watch gauges, dials, and output to make sure a machine is working properly.
• Inspect and evaluate the quality of products.

Perceive and visualize

• Imagine how something will look if it is moved around or its parts are rearranged.

Education and training

Educational programs

The programs of study listed below will help you prepare for the occupation or career cluster you are exploring.

Programs of study directly related to this occupation

• Apprenticeship Programs
• Building Construction Technology
• Construction Trades
• Plumbing and Water Supply

Other programs of study to consider

• Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
• Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Technology

Training

To work as a plumber or pipefitter, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent; and
• complete an apprenticeship program.

Education after high school

Nearly all plumbers and pipefitters learn their skills through apprenticeship training programs. Union and non-union apprenticeship programs are available. Admission to apprenticeship programs is competitive. To apply for an apprenticeship, you must:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• be at least 18 years old; and
• be in good physical condition.

Apprenticeship programs usually consist of four years of on-the-job training. You are paid for the time you spend on the job. In addition, each year you receive at least 144 hours of classroom training.

To learn about specific apprenticeship opportunities in your area, consult the US Department of Labor State Apprenticeship Information  website.

You can prepare for an apprenticeship by taking courses at a professional-technical or two-year school. Courses in blueprint reading, general math, and drafting prepare students to enter apprenticeship programs. However, these courses are not required to qualify for an apprenticeship.

On-the-job training

Some plumbers and pipefitters learn their skills informally on the job. In this case, you learn from an experienced worker. This type of training takes about four years.

Military training

Some branches of the military train people to be plumbers and pipefitters. Training lasts from eight to 12 weeks, depending on your specialty. Additional training occurs on the job.

If you receive this type of training in the military, you may earn credit for previous work experience when you enter a civilian apprenticeship program.

Washington apprenticeships

For further information on apprenticeships in Washington, contact:

Washington State Department of Labor and Industries
Apprenticeship Program 
PO Box 44530
Olympia, WA 98504-4530
360.902.5320

#ok 4/7/08 lh & 3/24/09, cj. Ok 3/22/11, 4/17/13, 3/18/15, 1/3/17, 4/5/19 cj.

Helpful high school courses

You should take a general high school curriculum that meets the state's graduation requirements . You will be required to take both math and science classes to graduate. You should consider taking Algebra and Geometry as your math courses and Chemistry and Physics as your science courses.

Helpful electives to take in high school that prepare you for this career include:

• Blueprint Reading
• Construction
• Drafting
• Industrial Arts
• Physical Education
• Welding

The courses listed above are meant to help you create your high school plan. If you have not already done so, talk to a school counselor or parent about the courses you are considering taking.

You should also check with a teacher or counselor to see if work-based learning opportunities are available in your school and community. These might include field trips, job shadowing, internships, and actual work experience. The goal of these activities is to help you connect your school experiences with real-life work.

Join some groups, try some hobbies, or volunteer with an organization that interests you. By participating in activities you can have fun, make new friends, and learn about yourself. Maybe one of them will help direct you to a future career. Here are examples of activities and groups  that may be available in your high school or community.

Things to know

Employers prefer applicants who have plumbing experience. This experience can be from an apprenticeship or the military. Many employers prefer applicants who have at least a high school diploma or equivalent. In addition, good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity are important. Physical fitness and a good sense of balance are also important.

Apprenticeship applicants must be at least 18 years old and meet local requirements. For example, some union locals test an applicant's aptitude for plumbing.

A valid state driver's license and reliable transportation is necessary for plumbers and pipefitters working as apprentices.

Costs to workers

Workers who belong to unions must pay initiation fees and dues.

Licensing/certification

Plumbers must be certified by the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries. Requirements for the general journey-level certificate of competency include:

• notarized affidavits of experience working for a registered contractor under the supervision of a certified plumber;
• 8,000 hours of work experience (of which 4,000 hours must be in commercial or industrial plumbing), or
• completion of an approved course of study in plumbing; and
• passing a written exam;
• pay all required fees.

The requirements for a certificate as a specialty residential plumber are the same as above, except only 6,000 hours of work experience in the applicable field are needed. Backflow specialty plumbers must have a backflow assembly tester certificate from the State Department of Health as well. 

Plumbers who install medical gas piping in hospitals, doctors', or dentists' offices, also must have an additional certificate from the State. Before they can apply for this certification, plumbers must have a Washington State journey-level plumber's card and 32 hours of approved training related to medical gas installation. 

Plumber trainees must be supervised by journey-level or specialty plumbers. They must submit new notarized affidavits of experience each year. 

All journey-level, residential specialty, and plumber trainees are required by the State to take 16 hours of continuing education every two years, including four hours of electrical training, to renew their certificates. Trainees must complete eight of the 16 hours every year.

Workers who do pump and piping work on both domestic and irrigation water systems must get a combined electrical and plumbing certificate. They also must take 24 hours of continuing education within a three-year renewal cycle.

For more information, contact:

Washington State Department of Labor and Industries
Plumber Certification Program 
PO Box 44470
Olympia, WA 98504-4470
360.902.5207

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Job listings

Listed below are links to job categories from the National Labor Exchange that relate to this career. Once you get a list of jobs, you can view information about individual jobs and find out how to apply. If your job search finds too many openings, or if you wish to search for jobs outside of Washington, you will need to refine your search.

• Pipe Fitters 
• Plumbers 

To get a listing of current jobs from the WorkSource system, go to the WorkSource website .

Wages

Wages vary by area of the country. Apprentices usually begin at about half the wage rate paid to experienced plumbers and pipefitters. Wages increase regularly as their skills improve.

Full-time salaried plumbers may earn benefits. These typically include vacation, sick leave, and health insurance. After an initial waiting period, apprentices receive the same benefits as experienced plumbers and pipefitters. 

Employment and outlook

Washington outlook

The table below provides information about the number of workers in this career in various regions. It also provides information about the expected growth rate and future job openings.

National employment

Major employers:

• Plumbing contractors

National outlook

Demand for this occupation will be strong. Demand for plumbers is expected to come from new building construction and stricter water standards for plumbing systems, such as low-flow toilets and showerheads. The construction of new power plants and factories should increase demand for pipefitters. Additional jobs will stem from the repair and maintenance of residential, commercial, and industrial pipe systems. It will also stem from building renovation.

Jobs for plumbers and pipefitters are usually less affected by the economy than other construction trades. This is because plumbing repairs often cannot be put off. Job opportunities will be best for those with experience and formal or apprenticeship training.

Other resources

American Welding Society 
8669 NW 36 Street, #130
Miami, FL 33166
800.443.9353
305.443.9353

International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials 
4755 East Philadelphia Street
Ontario, CA 91761
909.472.4100

Interview with a Plumber 

National Association of Women in Construction 
327 South Adams Street
Fort Worth, TX 76104
800.552.3506
817.877.5551

North America's Building Trades Unions (NABTU) 
815 16th ST, NW, Suite 600
Washington, D.C. 20006

Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association 
180 South Washington Street, Suite 100
Falls Church, VA 22046
800.533.7694
703.237.8100

United Association of Plumbers, Fitters, Welders, and HVAC Service Techs 
Three Park Place
Annapolis, MD 21401
410.269.2000

US Small Business Administration 
Seattle District Office
2401 Fourth Avenue, Suite 450
Seattle, WA 98121
206.553.7310

Washington State Building and Construction Trades Council 
906 Columbia Street SW, Suite 107
Olympia, WA 98501
360.357.6778

Water Environment Federation 
601 Wythe Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
800.666.0206

Welding.com 

References

Career cluster

• Architecture and Construction

Career path

• Realistic (Technical)

O*Net  occupations

• Pipe Fitters and Steamfitters (47-2152.01) 
• Plumbers (47-2152.02) 

O*Net job zone 

• Job Zone 3 - Medium preparation needed. Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations.

DOT occupations

• Coppersmith (862.281-010) 
• Coppersmith Apprentice (862.281-014) 
• Gas-main Fitter (862.361-014) 
• Industrial-gas Fitter (862.381-014) 
• Pipe Fitter (862.281-022) 
• Pipe Fitter (862.261-010) 
• Pipe Fitter, Diesel Engine I (862.361-018) 
• Pipe Fitter, Diesel Engine II (862.381-022) 
• Pipe-fitter Apprentice (862.281-026) 
• Plumber (862.381-030) 
• Plumber (862.681-010) 
• Plumber Apprentice (862.381-034) 
• Steam Service Inspector (862.361-022) 

Holland occupational clusters

• Realistic/Conventional/Enterprising
• Realistic/Conventional/Investigative

COPSystem

• Technology Skilled