Plumber / Pipefitter

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.

O*NET reports this occupation under titles such as: Drain Technician; Fire Sprinkler Service Technician; Pipe Welder; Pipefitter; Plumber; Plumbing Installer; Residential Plumber; Service Plumber; Sprinkler Fitter; Steamfitter

Tasks

• Shut off steam, water, or other gases or liquids from pipe sections, using valve keys or wrenches.
• Install underground storm, sanitary, or water piping systems, extending piping as needed to connect fixtures and plumbing.
• Assemble pipe sections, tubing, or fittings, using couplings, clamps, screws, bolts, cement, plastic solvent, caulking, or soldering, brazing, or welding equipment.
• Locate and mark the position of pipe installations, connections, passage holes, or fixtures in structures, using measuring instruments such as rulers or levels.
• Cut, thread, or hammer pipes to specifications, using tools such as saws, cutting torches, pipe threaders, or pipe benders.
• Lay out full scale drawings of pipe systems, supports, or related equipment, according to blueprints.
• Plan pipe system layout, installation, or repair, according to specifications.
• Review blueprints, building codes, or specifications to determine work details or procedures.
• Select pipe sizes, types, or related materials, such as supports, hangers, or hydraulic cylinders, according to specifications.
• Fill pipes or plumbing fixtures with water or air and observe pressure gauges to detect and locate leaks.
• Direct helpers engaged in pipe cutting, preassembly, or installation of plumbing systems or components.
• Inspect, examine, or test installed systems or pipe lines, using pressure gauge, hydrostatic testing, observation, or other methods.
• 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.
• Attach pipes to walls, structures, or fixtures, such as radiators or tanks, using brackets, clamps, tools, or welding equipment.

Knowledge

• Building and Construction
• Mechanical
• Design
• Mathematics
• Customer and Personal Service
• Administration and Management
• Engineering and Technology
• Physics
• Public Safety and Security

Skills

• Critical Thinking
• Monitoring
• Speaking

Abilities

• Problem Sensitivity
• Finger Dexterity
• Near Vision
• Deductive Reasoning
• Manual Dexterity
• Inductive Reasoning
• Trunk Strength
• Far Vision
• Oral Comprehension
• Category Flexibility
• Visualization
• Arm-Hand Steadiness
• Oral Expression
• Information Ordering
• Selective Attention
• Control Precision
• Multilimb Coordination
• Extent Flexibility
• Written Comprehension
• Flexibility of Closure
• Perceptual Speed
• Static Strength
• Dynamic Strength