How to become a plumber, pipefitters, and steamfitters

Assemble, install, alter, and repair pipelines or pipe systems that carry water, steam, air, or other liquids or gases. May install heating and cooling equipment and mechanical control systems. Includes sprinkler fitters.

Steps to get there

Most employers expect most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree..Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.

What plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters do

• Locate and mark the position of pipe installations, connections, passage holes, or fixtures in structures, using measuring instruments such as rulers or levels.
• Direct helpers engaged in pipe cutting, preassembly, or installation of plumbing systems or components.
• Install pipe assemblies, fittings, valves, appliances such as dishwashers or water heaters, or fixtures such as sinks or toilets, using hand or power tools.
• Anchor steel supports from ceiling joists to hold pipes in place.
• Keep records of work assignments.
• Install green plumbing equipment, such as faucet flow restrictors, dual-flush or pressure-assisted flush toilets, or tankless hot water heaters.

Skills that matter most

• Critical Thinking
• Monitoring
• Speaking
• Reading Comprehension
• Active Listening
• Writing
• Mathematics
• Active Learning

Is plumber, pipefitters, and steamfitters a good career?

On the numbers, this job pays above the typical job. Median pay is 25% above the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.

Where it pays most

• District of Columbia $101,020
• Illinois $99,950
• Oregon $97,050
• Minnesota $94,410
• Alaska $93,920

Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters salary by state and city

Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.