Plumbers assemble, install, and repair pipes, fittings, and fixtures of heating, water, waste disposal, gas, and drainage systems. Plumbers must work according to set rules, specifications, and plumbing codes. They usually work with pipes and related fixtures which are 4 inches in diameter or less.

Pipe Fitters layout, fabricate, assemble, install, and maintain piping and piping systems, fixtures, and equipment for steam, water, gas, heating, cooling, lubricating, and industrial processing systems.

Pipe Fitters often apply knowledge of system operation, building plans, and work drawings in performing their tasks.

JOB DUTIES

Plumbers may:

Study building plans and working drawings

Inspect work sites to determine possible obstructions

Locate and mark the position of pipes, pipe connections and passage holes in walls and floors

Cut openings in walls and floors for pipes and pipe fittings

Cut, thread, and bend pipes

Assemble and install valves, pipe fittings, and pipes

Join pipes by use of screws, bolts, fittings, solder or plastic solvent and caulk joints

Fill pipe system with water or air

Read pressure gages to determine if there is leakage

Install and repair plumbing fixtures

Repair and maintain plumbing

Assist in design of blueprints or drawings

Pipe Fitters may:

Select type and size of pipe and other materials

Inspect work sites and plan sequence of installation

Cut, thread, and bend pipes

Assemble and install a variety of metal and non-metal pipe and pipe fittings

Join and secure pipes by welding, threading, cementing or bolting

Install and maintain refrigeration and air-conditioning systems

Test pipe systems for leaks

Click to see Plumbers & Pipe Fitters at work!  

Tools and equipment used may include:

OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTIES

Plumbers and Pipe Fitters may specialize in these areas:

862.381-030 PLUMBERS assemble, install, and repair pipes, fittings, and fixtures of heating, water, and drainage systems. They must work according to set rules, specifications, and plumbing codes. They usually work with pipes and related fixtures which are 4 inches in diameter or less.

862.381-030 MAINTENANCE PLUMBERS inspect, maintain, and repair heating, water, and drainage systems in industrial or commercial establishments.

862.361-014 GAS-MAIN FITTERS lay pipe to repair and extend non-welded gas mains, and to install or repair service pipes between gas mains and residences.

862.281-022 PIPE FITTERS lay out, fabricate, assemble, install, and maintain piping and piping systems, fixtures, and equipment for steam, water, gas, heating, cooling, lubricating, and industrial processing systems.

Pipe Fitters often apply knowledge of system operation, building plans, and work drawings in performing their work.

In addition to learning about these specialties, you may also find it helpful to explore the following Career Exploration scripts:

WORKING CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

Plumbers and Pipe Fitters may work alone or in groups, depending on the type of work and the size of the employing firm. Usually, there is little direct supervision of Plumbers and Pipe Fitters. Much of the work is performed indoors or at least in the semi-shelter of unfinished buildings. Work areas are often dirty, wet, and cramped.

Hazards may include burns from hot pipes, blowtorches, steam, or molten metal, falls from ladders, and cuts from pipes and tools. They may also be exposed to unpleasant odors and fumes from leaking or broken pipes.

Plumbers and Pipe Fitters usually work 40 hours per week. Maintenance Plumbers and Pipe Fitters work any one of three separate shifts. They might work overtime to meet construction deadlines or make emergency repairs. They may have to travel considerable distances to reach job sites. They do not usually work on the same job for a long period of time.

Employers usually provide the heavy equipment used by Plumbers and Pipe Fitters. However, Plumbers and Pipe Fitters provide their own hand tools, hard hats, and safety shoes.

Many Plumbers and Pipe Fitters are members of the United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry of the United States and Canada . Union members must pay dues.

You Should Prefer:

· Working with tools and equipment to make and repair things

· Learning and applying principles of how things work

· Working as part of a team

· Working in all types of settings

You Should Be Able To:

· Work within precise limits or standards of accuracy

· Demonstrate mechanical aptitude

· Make decisions based on measurable criteria

· Visualize objects in three-dimensions from plans and drawings

Math Problem You Should Be Able to Solve:

If the latitude is 34 degrees, what should the collector angle be?

Reading Example You Should Be Able to Read and Comprehend:

Should be able to read and comprehend plumbing terminology.

For example, spring relief valve, diaphragm relief valve, British thermal unit, cross connection, solvent drainage systems, aerator, siphonage, hydrostatic pressure.

Writing Example You Should Be Able to Produce:

Prepare a written estimate for a plumbing job.

Thinking Skill You Should Be Able to Demonstrate:

Should be able to demonstrate analytical skills in assessing plumbing specifications and plumbing problems.

The State of Michigan requires a license for this occupation.  Click here for "Michigan Licensed Occupations," see  Plumber, Journeyperson and Plumber Master  for specific licensing information. Pipe Fitters are not licensed by the State of Michigan; however, some communities may require them to be licensed.

[back to top]

EDUCATION AND PREPARATION OPPORTUNITIES

NOTE: On-The-Job Training provided by the employer or a High School Diploma or Equivalent or a High School Diploma with specific Vocational Education Classes or a Certificate (program of up to one year of study beyond high school) or an Associate Degree (two years of study beyond high school) or an Apprenticeship (usually three to four years of training beyond high school) may qualify a person for this occupation.

The following education and preparation opportunities are helpful in preparing for occupations in the Career Exploration script:

***SCHOOL SUBJECTS***

0500 BUILDING TRADES , 0700 CAREERS , 0900 COMMUNICATIONS , 2200 MATH , 2300 METALS , 2900 SCIENCE , 3100 STUDY & WORK OPTIONS , 3200 TECHNICAL DRAWING , 3300 TECHNOLOGY

***VOCATIONAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS***

032 CONSTRUCTION/BUILDING MAINTENANCE

Approved vocational education programs in the Construction/Building Maintenance prepare students to erect, maintain, and repair buildings, highways, airports, and other structures using materials such as metal, wood, stone, brick, glass concrete, and composition substances. Instruction is given in cost estimating, the use of hand and power tools, and in following technical specifications and blueprints. Instruction may be given in classroom, shop, or laboratory settings or at the actual location of construction projects.

The following courses may be required for completion of this program:

CONSTRUCTION - (ON SITE)

CONSTRUCTION - (IN SCHOOL)

FLOOR COVERING

High school students should consult their guidance office for more information about the specific requirements of this program at their school or area vocational education center.

***POSTSECONDARY PROGRAMS***

035 CONSTRUCTION & BUILDING TECHNOLOGY

Construction and Building Technology programs provide opportunities to gain the needed knowledge and skills for employment in the many different types of construction and building jobs. Individuals who teach Construction and Building Technology at the secondary school level must have a  Michigan Teaching Certificate .

Courses within this program will vary but may include:

139 PLUMBING & PIPE FITTING

Programs in Plumbing and Pipe Fitting provide opportunities to gain the knowledge and skills needed to work for a licensed Plumber or Pipe Fitter. The first year(s) of training toward a plumbing license may also be acquired in these programs. Program #35, Construction and Building Technology, identifies similar opportunities.

Courses vary from school to school but may include:

Search for a College and/or Instructional Program

***APPRENTICESHIP OPPORTUNITIES***  

037  PLUMBER & PIPE FITTER

Many people enter occupations within this Career Exploration script through an apprenticeship program. An apprenticeship program is a formal program that takes 3 - 5 years to complete with most of the time spent on the job.

WHAT IS LEARNED ON THE JOB

WHAT IS LEARNED IN THE CLASSROOM

***MILITARY TRAINING PROGRAMS***  

Please check the Military website at   www.myfuture.com .

PLUMBERS AND PIPE FITTERS  

Military buildings and equipment require pipe systems for water, steam, gas, and waste. Pipe systems are also needed on aircraft, missiles, and ships for hydraulic (fluid pressure) and pneumatic (air pressure) systems. Plumbers and Pipe Fitters install and repair plumbing and pipe systems.

What They Do  

Plumbers and pipe fitters in the military perform some or all of the following duties:

·  Plan layouts of pipe systems using blueprints and drawings

·  Bend, cut, and thread pipes made of lead, copper, and plastic

·  Install connectors, fittings, and joints

·  Solder or braze pipe and tubing to join them

·  Install sinks, toilets, and other plumbing fixtures

·  Troubleshoot, test, and calibrate hydraulic and pneumatic systems

·  Keep accurate records of tasks completed and materials used

Physical Demands  

Plumbers and pipe fitters have to lift and carry heavy pipes and tubes.

Work Environment  

Plumbers and pipe fitters work both indoors and outdoors on land and aboard ships.

Training Provided  

Job training consists of 8 to 12 weeks of classroom instruction, including practice in repairing plumbing systems. Course content typically includes:

·  Installation, operation, and repair of pipe systems

·  Installation and repair of plumbing fixtures and boiler controls

·  Installation and repair of water purification and distillation systems

·  Maintenance and repair of hydraulic and pneumatic systems

·  Methods of soldering, welding, silver brazing, and cutting

The Army, Navy and Marine Corps offer certified apprenticeship programs for some specialties in this occupation.

Helpful Attributes  

Helpful school subjects include math and shop mechanics. Helpful attributes include:

·  Preference for doing physical work

·  Ability to work with detailed plans

Civilian Counterparts  

Civilian plumbers and pipe fitters usually work for mechanical or plumbing contractors or as self-employed contractors. Some plumbers and pipe fitters work for public utilities. Civilian plumbers and pipe fitters perform duties similar to those performed in the military.

Opportunities  

The exact number of plumbers and pipe fitters in the military is unknown. Due to personnel changes and field demands, new plumbers and pipe fitters are needed annually. After job training, plumbers and pipe fitters work under close supervision. With experience, they work more independently and may supervise others. Eventually, they may advance to become managers of utilities departments, construction units, or missile maintenance units.  

E-Learning Courses and Programs

[back to top]

OPPORTUNITIES FOR EXPERIENCE AND METHODS OF ENTRY  

Postsecondary programs in plumbing and pipe fitting and construction and building technology, as well as secondary vocational education programs in construction and building maintenance may offer co-op portions through which experience may be gained. Other ways to explore or gain experience in this field are part-time employment as a helper, military service, and a formal apprenticeship.

School-to-Work opportunities include:

informal apprenticeships

mentorships

job shadowing experiences

touring a local Plumber and Pipe Fitter employer

internships

volunteer work with a Plumber and Pipe Fitter employer

community service work with an agency

Methods of finding Plumber and Pipe Fitter jobs include applying directly to employers, completing a formal apprenticeship, and contacting civil service offices. Assistance may be available from local unions, high school or community college placement offices, plumbing and pipe fitting contractor associations, apprenticeship information consultants at local offices of the Michigan Works!, and newspaper want ads. In addition, you should access and search the Internet's on-line employment services sites such as:

Building Industry Association of Southeastern Michigan

Building Industry Exchange

Associated Builders and Contractors

Michigan Jobs & Career Portal

Careerbuilder

simplyhired.com

Indeed | one search. all jobs.  

Monster jobs  

Yahoo! hotjobs  

Michigan Talent Bank

             You should also enter an electronic resume on these on-line services.

[back to top]

EARNINGS AND ADVANCEMENT  

Wages depend on geographical location, size and type of employer, training and skill of the worker. Yearly wages for these workers are among the highest in the building trades.

Nationally, basic union hourly wage rates for Plumbers in residential construction averaged about $28.70 in early 2009. However, the basic union hourly wage rate in commercial & industrial construction for Plumbers was $42.80 in early 2009. Median weekly earnings for construction Plumbers & Pipe Fitters were $784 or $19.60 per hour in 2008. The median weekly earnings of "all" workers in the U.S. were $722 in 2008.

Hourly wages, including fringe benefits, for unionized building trades Plumbers and Pipe Fitters in several Michigan areas (early 2009) were:

Building trades Plumbers generally receive 2 times their basic hourly rate for overtime. Apprentice Plumbers/Pipe Fitters in Michigan start at a rate of pay which is about 45% to 50% of what qualified workers earn.

In mid 2009, Plumbers employed by the State of Michigan earned between $16.41 and $25.20 per hour. Plumbing inspectors earned between $19.61 and $29.09 per hour.

Union members receive welfare, pension, and vacation benefits from funds established by union contracts. The welfare funds usually provide hospitalization, medical-surgical, major medical, and life insurance coverage. In some cases, employers and employees jointly contribute to these funds.

Plumbers and Pipe Fitters usually begin as apprentices. With experience, some may advance to jobs as supervisor or superintendent. Many start their own businesses or become contractors after passing the appropriate local and state examinations.

[back to top]

EMPLOYMENT AND OUTLOOK  

Nationally, about 500,200 Plumbers and Pipe Fitters were employed in 2006. Employment is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations through the year 2016. About 11.9% of them were self-employed. The industry distribution for this occupation looked like this:

To find employers, click  Employer/Business Locator.

Employment of Plumbers and Pipe Fitters depends upon the economy. During prosperous times, increased construction activity and growth in areas which use extensive pipe work such as chemical and petroleum refineries and nuclear power plants, will spur demand for Plumbers and Pipe Fitters. Competition is expected for those wishing to enter plumbing and pipe fitting apprenticeships.

About 18,000 Plumbers and Pipe Fitters are employed in Michigan, mostly in urban areas. Most worked for plumbing, heating, and air-conditioning contractors; manufacturing companies; and gas and electric utility companies.

The employment of Plumbers and Pipe Fitters in Michigan is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations through the year 2014. An average of 500 openings per year is expected, with 110 due to growth and 390 to replacement of workers who retire, die, or leave the labor force for other reasons. Additional openings will occur as workers transfer to other jobs or occupations. In late 2008, there were 379 apprentices in training for this occupation, and 14 completed the apprentice program during the prior 12 months.

Renovation and maintenance of power plants, water and wastewater treatment plants, pipelines, office buildings, factories, and other projects that have large, complex pipe systems as well as the maintenance of existing residential systems may spur the demand for Plumbers and Pipe Fitters.

MICHIGAN'S AREA EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK TO 2014  

SOURCES OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION  

 Copyright © 2009 Michigan Department of Energy, Labor & Economic Growth