Updated 2025 · Plumbing
How to Become a Pipefitter
Pipefitters install and maintain high-pressure piping systems used in manufacturing, power generation, and heating/cooling systems. They work with steam, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems.
Steps to Become a Pipefitter
- Meet basic requirements — You must be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED. A strong foundation in math, physics, and shop classes helps.
- Apply to an apprenticeship program — Pipefitter apprenticeships last 5 years and combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Apply through your local union (IBEW, UA, etc.) or a non-union contractor program. You earn while you learn from day one.
- Complete required training — Complete 10000 hours of on-the-job training and related classroom instruction.
- Earn certifications — Required certifications include: State pipefitter license, Welding certifications (AWS), OSHA 10/30-Hour, ASME pressure piping certifications.
- Pass the journeyman exam — After completing your apprenticeship, pass the journeyman licensing exam in your state to earn full journeyman status and pay.
What Does a Pipefitter Do?
Pipefitters install and maintain high-pressure piping systems used in manufacturing, power generation, and heating/cooling systems. They work with steam, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems.
Daily Duties
- Install and maintain high-pressure pipe systems
- Read isometric drawings and pipe specifications
- Weld, braze, and solder pipe joints
- Test systems for pressure and leaks
- Install supports, hangers, and insulation
Skills Needed
- Pipe welding
- Isometric drawing reading
- Steam system design
- Rigging and hoisting
- Hydraulic system knowledge
Required Certifications
- State pipefitter license
- Welding certifications (AWS)
- OSHA 10/30-Hour
- ASME pressure piping certifications
Pipefitter Salary (2025)
The national median pipefitter salary is $67,249 per year. Pay ranges from $56,372 in the lowest-paying metro to $84,056 in the highest-paying metro. See the full pipefitter salary breakdown by city.
Apprentice Pay Progression
Pipefitter apprentices earn while they learn, starting at approximately 40% of journeyman pay:
| Year | % of Journeyman | Estimated Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 40% | $26,900 |
| Year 2 | 53% | $35,642 |
| Year 3 | 65% | $43,712 |
| Year 4 | 78% | $52,454 |
| Year 5 | 90% | $60,524 |
| Journeyman | 100% | $67,249 |
Union vs Non-Union Pipefitter Pay
Union pipefitters earn 34% more than non-union workers — $40.12/hour union vs $29.94/hour non-union. Approximately 32.6% of pipefitters are union members. See the full union vs non-union comparison.
Work Environment
Pipefitters work in power plants, refineries, factories, and large commercial buildings. Work involves confined spaces, heights, and exposure to high-pressure systems.
Career Outlook
Strong demand in industrial maintenance, power generation, and petrochemical plants. Union pipefitter positions especially competitive.
Frequently Asked Questions
The national median salary for a pipefitter is $67,249 per year (2025 BLS data). Pay ranges from $56,372 to $84,056 depending on location, with top earners in the 90th percentile making significantly more.
It takes 5 years to complete a pipefitter apprenticeship. During this time, you earn while you learn — starting at approximately 40-50% of journeyman wages and receiving annual raises.
No college degree is required to become a pipefitter. The primary path is through an apprenticeship program or trade school. You will need to earn specific certifications: State pipefitter license and Welding certifications (AWS).
Pipefitter earns a Trade Pay Score grade of C, meaning it rates moderately on pay relative to cost of living, wage growth, and demand. Strong demand in industrial maintenance, power generation, and petrochemical plants. Union pipefitter positions especially competitive.
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