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Helpers--Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters Occupation Detailed Description

Helpers--Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters career

General Job Description and Education/Training Levels for Helpers--Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters

Helpers--Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters Job Description
EducationThese occupations usually require a high school diploma.
Related ExperienceSome previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is usually needed. For example, a teller would benefit from experience working directly with the public.
Job TrainingEmployees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
ExampleThese occupations often involve using your knowledge and skills to help others. Examples include orderlies, counter and rental clerks, customer service representatives, security guards, upholsterers, and tellers.
The following chart shows the education/training levels for Helpers--Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters jobs. 48.69% of Helpers--Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters have High School Diploma (or the equivalent) and 26.83% of Helpers--Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters have Post-Secondary Certificate.
Less than a High School Diploma
5.60%
High School Diploma (or the equivalent)
48.69%
Post-Secondary Certificate
26.83%
Some College Courses
9.18%
Associate's Degree (or other 2-year degree)
0.00%
Bachelor's Degree and Above
9.70%

Tasks and Work Activities of Helpers--Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters

  • Cut or drill holes in walls or floors to accommodate the passage of pipes.
  • Measure, cut, thread and assemble new pipe, placing the assembled pipe in hangers or other supports.
  • Mount brackets and hangers on walls and ceilings to hold pipes, and set sleeves or inserts to provide support for pipes.
  • Requisition tools and equipment, select type and size of pipe, and collect and transport materials and equipment to work site.
  • Fit or assist in fitting valves, couplings, or assemblies to tanks, pumps, or systems, using hand tools.
  • Assist pipe fitters in the layout, assembly, and installation of piping for air, ammonia, gas, and water systems.
  • Excavate and grade ditches, and lay and join pipe for water and sewer service.
  • Cut pipe and lift up to fitters.
  • Disassemble and remove damaged or worn pipe.
  • Clean shop, work area, and machines, using solvent and rags.
  • Install gas burners to convert furnaces from wood, coal, or oil.
  • Immerse pipe in chemical solution to remove dirt, oil, and scale.
  • Clean and renew steam traps.
  • Fill pipes with sand or resin to prevent distortion, and hold pipes during bending and installation.
  • Perform rough-ins, repair and replace fixtures and water heaters, and locate, repair, or remove leaking or broken pipes.
  • Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or MaterialInspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
  • Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with StandardsUsing relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
  • Getting InformationObserving, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
  • Handling and Moving ObjectsUsing hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
  • Thinking CreativelyDeveloping, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
  • Performing General Physical ActivitiesPerforming physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling of materials.
  • Identifying Objects, Actions, and EventsIdentifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
  • Making Decisions and Solving ProblemsAnalyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
  • Controlling Machines and ProcessesUsing either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
  • Updating and Using Relevant KnowledgeKeeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
  • Drill holes in construction materials.
  • Cut openings in existing structures.
  • Install plumbing or piping.
  • Cut metal components for installation.
  • Measure materials or objects for installation or assembly.
  • Order construction or extraction materials or equipment.
  • Move construction or extraction materials to locations where they are needed.
  • Select construction materials.
  • Install building fixtures.
  • Assist skilled construction or extraction personnel.
  • Dig holes or trenches.
  • Remove worn, damaged or outdated materials from work areas.
  • Clean equipment or facilities.
  • Assemble products or production equipment.
  • Maintain plumbing structures or fixtures.