Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters assemble, install, repair, and alter pipe systems that transport water, steam, air, and other fluids or gases. They work in residential homes, commercial buildings, industrial facilities, and construction sites. The role may include installing heating and cooling equipment and mechanical control systems.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves inspecting pipe systems, measuring and cutting pipes, threading or bending pipes to fit specifications, and soldering or welding joints. Plumbers might unclog drains, repair leaks in homes, or install new bathroom fixtures. Pipefitters work on larger systems in commercial or industrial settings. Steamfitters maintain high-temperature and high-pressure systems. Work includes reading blueprints, testing systems for leaks, and troubleshooting problems.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to enjoy hands-on, practical work and like following established procedures and building codes. You do well with concrete problems that have clear solutions, and you're comfortable working methodically to complete technical tasks.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold a certificate or training program.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $74,630 | $101,020 | $114,400 | 1,010 |
| Illinois | $72,070 | $99,950 | $120,050 | 16,750 |
| Oregon | $74,920 | $97,050 | $126,400 | 5,370 |
| Minnesota | $61,150 | $94,410 | $108,750 | 10,720 |
| Alaska | $73,640 | $93,920 | $102,820 | 1,200 |
| Massachusetts | $61,860 | $93,880 | $108,430 | 13,460 |
| Wisconsin | $61,430 | $81,210 | $103,560 | 10,210 |
| Washington | $60,030 | $81,030 | $107,420 | 12,470 |
| Michigan | $58,090 | $80,190 | $95,390 | 14,120 |
| Montana | $60,990 | $79,960 | $94,370 | 1,860 |
| New Jersey | $61,810 | $78,240 | $106,830 | 8,750 |
| Hawaii | $61,570 | $78,060 | $97,950 | 2,500 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Journey Level Pipefitter-Steamfitter — National Inspection, Testing and Certification Corporation
- STAR Steamfitting-Pipefitting Mastery — National Inspection, Testing and Certification Corporation
- Commercial Plumbing Inspector (CPI) — International Code Council
- UPC Journeyman Plumber — National Inspection, Testing and Certification Corporation
- Plumbing Plans Examiner (PPE) — International Code Council
- UPC RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL PLUMBING INSPECTOR (PI) — International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 47-2152.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.