Everything You Need to Know About Becoming A Plumber, Pipefitter, and Steamfitter

The plumbing industry is one of the most in-demand fields that require plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters. These professionals install and repair piping systems that are essential to our daily lives. They work in various environments, including residential and commercial buildings, factories, and construction sites.

What is Plumbing, Pipefitting, and Steamfitting?

Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters are responsible for planning, installing, and maintaining plumbing and piping systems that carry water, gas, sewage, and other materials. Some common tasks include:

• Reading blueprints and install piping systems
• Inspecting and testing systems for leaks and malfunctions
• Repairing or replacing damaged pipes, valves, and fixtures
• Working closely with construction teams during new installations and projects

These professionals also have to be aware of safety regulations and adhere to industry standards and codes.

Education and Training

Most plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters start in an apprenticeship program that combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction. These programs usually last between four and five years and involve paid training under the supervision of an experienced professional. Some apprenticeships require a high school diploma or equivalent, while others may have additional requirements, such as passing an aptitude test or having some prior experience in the field.

Other ways to gain entry into the plumbing industry include community college certificate or degree programs or private vocational training. These programs offer classroom instruction, hands-on training, and usually last between six months and two years.

Once apprenticeship or formal training is complete, plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters can take certification exams offered by industry associations to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in the field. Certification is not usually a requirement to work in the industry, but it can help professionals advance their careers and earn more pay.

Progressing in the Field

Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters typically start their careers as apprentices, where they learn skills and gain experience under the guidance of more experienced professionals. After completing their apprenticeships, they may become journeymen or journeywomen, where they can work independently and lead projects. Some professionals may choose to become master plumbers, pipefitters, or steamfitters, which requires additional education, experience, and certifications.

Entering the Field as a Newcomer

If you are interested in becoming a plumber, pipefitter, or steamfitter, there are several things you can do to start your journey. One of the best ways is to reach out to local unions or trade organizations and ask about their apprenticeship programs. You can also consider enrolling in a certificate or degree program at a community college or vocational school. Networking and connecting with professionals in the plumbing industry can also help you learn about job opportunities and gain valuable insights into the field.

The plumbing industry is a critical part of our daily lives, and plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters play a vital role in ensuring we all have clean water and functioning piping systems. With the right education, training, and experience, anyone can join this exciting and rewarding field.

Occupation: Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters

Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters are responsible for installing and repairing pipes that carry water, steam, gas, or other materials in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. They also install fixtures, appliances, and equipment that use these pipes, such as toilets, sinks, boilers, and heating and cooling systems.

Job Levels and Salary Data

The salary data for the occupation of Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters is as follows:

Job Level | National Average Salary (Range)
—|—
Level 04 | $40,019.20 – $44,574.40
Level 05 | $56,409.60 – $50,481.60
Level 06 | $71,614.40 – $67,641.60
Level 07 | $80,641.60 – $63,273.60
Not able to be leveled | $65,166.40 – $66,102.40
Entry | $49,524.80 –
Experienced | $76,107.20 –

Effect of Union

The effect of union on the job of Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters is substantial. Unionized workers generally receive higher wages, better benefits, and more job security than nonunionized workers. According to the salary data, unionized workers earn an average of $80,246.40 to $80,371.20 across all levels, while nonunionized workers earn an average of $57,283.20 to $51,646.40.

Geographies

On average, Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters are paid differently across different regions. The job function of Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters is best paid in the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI area for unionized workers, who earn an average salary of $99,777.60 to $98,467.20 across all levels. However, in the Piedmont North Carolina nonmetropolitan area, nonunionized workers earn considerably less, with an average salary range of $42,598.40 to $34,236.80 across all levels.

Data Table

Job Level | National Average Salary for Unionized Workers (Range) | National Average Salary for Nonunionized Workers (Range)
—|—|—
All workers | $80,246.40 – $80,371.20 | $57,283.20 – $51,646.40
Full-time, All levels | $65,249.60 – $61,443.20 |
Level 04 | $40,019.20 – $44,616.00 |
Level 05 | $56,409.60 – $50,544.00 |
Level 06 | $71,614.40 – $67,641.60 |
Level 07 | $80,641.60 – $63,668.80 |
Not able to be leveled | $65,228.80 – $66,227.20 |
Entry | $49,587.20 – |
Experienced | $76,086.40 – |

Note: The national average salary data for Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters came from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) survey for May 2020. The salary data for Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI came from the BLS OES survey for May 2020 and represents unionized workers only. The salary data for Piedmont North Carolina nonmetropolitan area came from the BLS OES survey for May 2019 and represents nonunionized workers only.