Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
Key Insights
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters are a dynamic career within the sector, offering a unique blend of opportunities and challenges for professionals seeking meaningful work.
The median annual salary for this occupation is $62,970, which is above the typical salary for this field. Over the next decade, employment is projected to grow by 4.0%, following overall growth trends and steady opportunities . The automation risk for this occupation is 35.0%. This suggests a high degree of job security, as automation is less likely to impact this role in the near future. Work-life balance is rated as 5.1, which can be an important factor for job satisfaction and overall well-being.
Individuals with Realistic, Conventional, or Investigative personality traits tend to thrive in this career. Key skills for success include Communication skills, Dexterity, Mechanical skills, Physical strength, Troubleshooting skills. Developing and refining these abilities can set you apart from other candidates and help you excel in your role. Notable strengths for this occupation are High Demand, Flexible Work, Continuous Learning. Leveraging these strengths can lead to greater job satisfaction and career advancement. Some common challenges professionals may encounter include Burnout Risk, Rapid Technological Change. Being aware of these potential obstacles can help you prepare and develop strategies to overcome them.
The highest employment levels for this occupation are found in California, offering strong job prospects in that region. The leading industry for this role is Government, excluding state and local education and hospitals, which may provide additional opportunities for specialization and growth.
Whether you are just starting your career journey or looking to make a change, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters offers a compelling mix of salary potential, job outlook, and personal fit. By understanding the key factors that influence success in this field, you can make informed decisions and position yourself for long-term achievement.
What They Do
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters install, maintain, and repair pipes, fixtures, and systems that carry water, gas, steam, and other fluids. They read blueprints, use specialized tools, and ensure systems meet codes and safety standards. Their work is critical in construction, maintenance, and industrial facilities.
This career is well suited for individuals who enjoy hands-on work, problem-solving, and technical systems.
What Do Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters Do?
These professionals assemble and maintain piping systems, troubleshoot issues, and ensure the safe operation of fluid-carrying systems.
Common responsibilities include:
- Reading blueprints and technical drawings to plan installations
- Installing pipes, fixtures, valves, and other components
- Assembling and joining pipe sections using welding, soldering, or threading
- Inspecting and repairing leaks, blockages, and faulty systems
- Testing systems to ensure proper flow and pressure
- Complying with plumbing, safety, and building codes
- Collaborating with construction teams, engineers, and clients
Key Areas of Plumbing and Pipefitting
Professionals may focus on specific systems, materials, or facilities:
- Residential and Commercial Plumbing: Installing and repairing water and gas systems
- Industrial Pipefitting: Working with high-pressure steam, chemicals, or specialized fluids
- System Maintenance and Repair: Troubleshooting leaks, clogs, and system failures
- Installation and Fabrication: Cutting, bending, and assembling pipes to specifications
- Safety and Code Compliance: Ensuring systems meet local, state, and federal regulations
Skills and Abilities Needed
These professionals combine technical knowledge, manual skills, and problem-solving abilities.
Core Professional Skills
- Pipe installation, fitting, and assembly - Knowledge of plumbing codes, safety, and regulations - Use of hand and power tools for cutting, welding, and joining - System troubleshooting and repair - Blueprint reading and technical interpretation - Collaboration with construction and engineering teamsPersonal Qualities That Matter
- Manual dexterity and mechanical aptitude - Physical stamina and strength - Attention to detail and precision - Problem-solving and critical thinking - Communication and teamwork skills - Reliability and responsibilityEducation and Career Pathway
This role typically requires technical training and hands-on experience:
- High School Diploma or GED (minimum): Basic math, science, and technical skills
- Apprenticeship Programs: Learning installation, repair, and safety practices under supervision
- Vocational or Trade School Courses: Specialized training in plumbing, pipefitting, and steam systems
- Licensure or Certification: Required in most states to practice as a plumber or pipefitter
- Continuing Education: Staying updated on codes, technologies, and safety procedures
Where Do Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters Work?
They are employed in organizations that construct, maintain, or repair fluid-carrying systems:
- Construction Companies
- Industrial and Manufacturing Facilities
- Maintenance and Repair Services
- Residential and Commercial Buildings
- Government and Utility Projects
Work environments include construction sites, industrial plants, residential buildings, and maintenance facilities.
Is This Career Difficult?
This career requires technical skill, physical stamina, and attention to safety. Workers must handle heavy materials, work in confined spaces, and follow strict regulations.
Who Should Consider This Career?
This career may be a strong fit if you:
- Enjoy hands-on technical work
- Are detail-oriented and precise
- Can work in physically demanding environments
- Have problem-solving and mechanical skills
- Want a career in construction, maintenance, or industrial systems
How to Prepare Early
- Take courses in mathematics, physics, and mechanical systems
- Participate in vocational programs or trade school training
- Gain experience through apprenticeships or internships in plumbing or pipefitting
- Develop mechanical, problem-solving, and teamwork skills
- Learn about safety codes, regulations, and proper use of tools
Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters install, maintain, and repair piping systems, ensuring safe and efficient delivery of water, gas, steam, and other fluids in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
Career Video
Key facts
Top Skills
StartRight Career Intelligence Metrics
Job Growth Outlook
+4.0%Automation Risk Assessment
Medium RiskWork-Life Balance Score
5.1/10Personality Fit (RIASEC Profile)
Powered by O*NET Career Profiling
Personality Match: The higher the score (out of 10), the better this career matches that personality type. People with similar interests and work styles tend to be most satisfied in careers that match their personality profile.
Official assessment tool by the U.S. Department of Labor
Strengths
- High Demand
- Flexible Work
- Continuous Learning
Challenges
- Burnout Risk
- Rapid Technological Change
Median Salary Comparison
Employment projection (2024–2034)
Geographic Employment & Wage Analysis
BLS OEWS Data Updated 2024-05States with Highest Employment
- California 45,460
- Texas 42,290
- Florida 26,730
- New York 22,630
- Illinois 18,730
- Massachusetts 15,670
- Ohio 14,490
- North Carolina 14,300
- Pennsylvania 13,990
- Virginia 13,190
Regional Wage Variations
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California +9%$68,390
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Texas -7%$58,560
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Florida -20%$50,540
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New York +25%$78,460
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Illinois +53%$96,200
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Massachusetts +32%$83,260
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Ohio -1%$62,530
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North Carolina -19%$50,990
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Pennsylvania +6%$66,650
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Virginia -5%$59,560