Pipefitter job description
A Pipefitter is a professional who builds pipe systems for heating, hot water, and cooling. They also forge steam engines that power types of machinery like dishwashers or clothes dryers. These individuals must be able to work with materials like steel wool and various electric products.
What is a pipefitter?
Pipefitters are tradespeople who build pipe systems used for heating, hot water, cooling, steam and more. They make sure that pipes are cut, installed, and maintained according to specifications.
Pipefitters usually work for construction companies, but they may work on many different settings, such as home installation, industrial settings, etc.
What does a pipefitter do?
The specific pipefitter job duties include creating pipe installation plans, conducting quality control and fixing pipe systems. More specifically:
Pipefitter duties include:
- Cutting, assembling and installing pipes
- Repairing malfunctions
- Testing pipe systems to ensure safety and functionality
What skills do you need to be a pipefitter?
In order to become a pipefitter, it’s usually required to complete an apprenticeship program first. The basic pipefitter skills are knowledge of cutting and welding methods, ability to understand blueprints, and experience with tools and equipment used on the job (e.g. pneumatic drills).
If you like this pipefitter job description, check out the rest of our construction job descriptions and production job descriptions.
Job brief
We are looking for a pipefitter to build and maintain pipe systems.
You’ll get to read blueprints, set specifications, lay out plans for installation, and prepare pipes. You should be able to use pneumatic and hydraulic tools following safety guidelines. Ideally, we’d also like you to have experience in both residential and industrial settings, and with pipes of different materials (steel, PVC, etc.).
If you also have strong numerical and communication skills, and you find great excitement in seeing the systems you built work, we’d like to meet you.
Responsibilities
- Review blueprints to understand requirements
- Set and modify specifications
- Inspect and prepare sites for construction operations
- Measure and cut pipes according to requirements
- Weld, assemble, and lubricate pipes
- Install and secure pipes (e.g. with clamps)
- Test functionality of hydraulic and other systems
- Repair malfunctions, breakages, or leaks
- Use and maintain tools (e.g. pneumatic drill, saws)
- Collaborate with other workers (e.g. plumbers, painters) to produce finished constructions
- Follow safety guidelines and use protective equipment (e.g. goggles)
Requirements and skills
- Proven experience as a pipefitter
- Knowledge of health and safety guidelines when dealing with dangerous equipment or chemicals
- Good numerical and problem-solving skills
- Attention to detail
- Strong communication skills
- Ability to lift up to 50lbs
- Ability to work in shifts and/or overtime
- Valid license
Frequently asked questions
- What does a Pipefitter do?
- Pipefitters install and maintain pipes that may carry chemicals, acids, or gases. They mainly work in manufacturing settings but can also be found at commercial sites like apartment buildings, managing boilers for heating water or cooking.
- What are the duties and responsibilities of a Pipefitter?
- The Pipefitter lays out pipes, assembles them into systems, and installs support for everything processed through these machines. They know how each system operates to keep things running smoothly. They're responsible for ensuring these systems fit within the desired blueprint and combine with the rest of a building's pipework.
- What makes a Good Pipefitter?
- Successful Pipefitters have skills in using math, reading blueprints, and understanding industry tool operation. Practical training programs allow students to practice these abilities while obtaining more realistic experience when seeking fitting jobs.
- Who does a Pipefitter work with?
- When installing and ensuring a pipe system's functionality, a Pipefitter collaborates with a Plumber, who often fixes minor issues and assists in maintaining these systems. While a fitter focuses on the overall layout of a pipe network, the plumber focuses on its maintenance and ensuring lasting functionality.