Pipelayer

Your Fit

Income

$47K

Preparation

Some

Growth

-4.4%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Pipelayer?

A Pipelayer is responsible for installing and maintaining underground pipes, which are essential for various utilities such as water, sewer, and gas. They ensure that these vital systems are properly laid out, connected, and secured.

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Pipelayer.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Pipelayer earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) is...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$36K per year	$40K per year	$47K per year	$60K per year	$79K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $730 below the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Pipelayer do?

Work environment

Pipelayers typically work outdoors in various weather conditions, often in construction sites, residential developments, or urban renewal projects. The job is physically demanding, involving digging, lifting, and working in trenches. Safety precautions are essential due to the risks associated with heavy machinery and underground work.

Quick task list

Lays and joins pipes for water, sewer, and gas utilities.
Digs trenches and prepares the groundwork for pipe installation.
Inspects and replaces old or damaged pipes.
Follows blueprints and specifications for accurate pipe placement.
Ensures compliance with safety standards and building codes.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Water Supply Pipelaying: Focusing on the installation of water mains and residential water lines.
Sewer Pipelaying: Specializing in the installation and maintenance of sewer systems.
Gas Pipelaying: Working with gas lines, requiring knowledge of specific safety protocols.
Storm Drain Pipelaying: Installing and maintaining stormwater drainage systems.
Trenchless Technology: Utilizing advanced methods to lay pipes without extensive trench digging.

Description

Pipelayers play a crucial role in the infrastructure of communities, laying the groundwork for essential services. The job requires a strong understanding of the types of pipes used, as well as the methods for laying, joining, and securing them properly. It's a role that combines physical labor with technical knowledge, as pipelayers must be able to read and interpret blueprints and work with precision.

Safety is a paramount concern in this profession, as pipelayers often work with heavy equipment and in potentially hazardous conditions. The ability to work as part of a team is crucial, as is communication with other construction professionals to coordinate efforts. Physical fitness and stamina are important, as the job involves manual labor, including digging, lifting, and operating machinery.

Pipelayers need to adapt to different work environments and be prepared to work in varying weather conditions. The job offers the satisfaction of contributing to fundamental community services, and there is a steady demand for skilled pipelayers in construction and utility projects.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Playing a critical role in building and maintaining community infrastructure.
The physical and skilled nature of the work.
Working as part of a team to complete complex projects.

You might make a good Pipelayer if you are...

Physically fit and capable of performing demanding tasks.
Detail-oriented, with the ability to follow blueprints and specifications accurately.
Comfortable working outdoors and in varying weather conditions.
Interested in construction and utility work.
Safety-conscious and aware of the importance of following strict safety protocols.

Pros:

Steady demand for skilled pipelayers in construction and utility sectors.
Opportunity to work on a variety of projects.
Satisfaction from contributing to essential community services.

Cons:

Physically demanding job with potential health risks.
Exposure to outdoor elements and varying weather conditions.
Risk of injury from machinery and working in trenches.

How to become a Pipelayer

Typical education

A high school diploma or equivalent is generally sufficient, with most skills acquired through on-the-job training. Some pipelayers may complete formal apprenticeship programs, which can last up to 4 years and combine technical instruction with practical experience.

High school preparation

Courses:

Shop or vocational classes to learn basic construction skills.
Mathematics for understanding measurements and calculations.
Physical education to build stamina and strength.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Joining construction or engineering clubs.
Participating in sports or other physical activities.
Volunteering for community service projects, particularly those involving outdoor work.

Preparation after high school

Attending vocational or technical schools that offer courses in construction and pipe fitting.
Seeking apprenticeships in plumbing or pipelaying for hands-on experience.
Obtaining certifications related to construction safety, heavy machinery operation, or specialized pipelaying techniques.

More resources

National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) - Provides training and certification programs for construction-related trades, including pipelaying.
American Pipeline Contractors Association (APCA) - Offers resources and advocacy for pipeline construction and maintenance professionals.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) - Guidelines and training for workplace safety, relevant to pipelayers.
United Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters (UA) - A union providing education, training, and apprenticeship opportunities in piping professions.

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Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.