To become a pipefitter, you must complete four steps: post-secondary education, related work experience, certification, and a job interview. A pipefitter is a skilled tradesperson who works with piping systems to install, assemble, maintain, and fabricate them. Despite the fact that the terms “plumber” and “plumber” are often used interchangeably, these are two distinct professions. A plumber cannot fabricate pipes, but a pipefitter can install pipes and plumbing.
Mechanically inclined individuals who are skilled with tools and enjoy working with their hands report the highest levels of job satisfaction. Many states have regulations governing who can be asked to perform pipefitter work, with some tasks being restricted to licensed pipefitters only. Working for a large heating and air conditioning company, manufacturing facilities, shipyards, or semiconductor plants are all options for a licensed pipefitter.
To work as a pipefitter, you’ll need to complete a post-secondary training program, which can be found at a variety of community and career colleges. These programs typically last two to three years and include both theoretical and practical components. Pipefitters must be skilled in plumbing, welding, and metalworking. Working as a plumber or welder is related work experience that can help you get a pipefitter job. Working in the construction trades, as a mechanical assistant, or as a heating and air conditioning technician are all examples of additional experience.
Pipefitting is a skilled trade that is subject to government regulation. A certification exam is required of all pipefitters. To get a job as a pipefitter, candidates must pass a multiple-choice exam and work for a certain number of hours under the supervision of a licensed pipefitter.
Take the time to prepare for the job interview during the process. Make a list of common interview questions and prepare your responses ahead of time. As part of the interview process, some employers will conduct a short test of your pipefitting abilities. This job necessitates a specific level of skill, and it is very easy to determine whether or not the applicant is capable of performing the job.
A pipefitter’s career advancement options include supervisory and management positions within the company. After 10 to 15 years of experience, most pipefitters move away from the physical aspect of the job and into management or teaching positions. This is a physically demanding job that carries a high risk of injury over the course of most working careers.
In this job, being able to read blueprints is crucial. This is a difficult skill for many people to master. Short, focused courses on reading blueprints are available at a variety of community and career colleges.