The pipefitter profile is a significant profile within the civil and industrial industries. A pipefitter is not a plumber who works in residential complexes and repairs the pipelines of the buildings. A pipefitter works for a large industrial setup. He installs, repairs and maintains those pipes that provide water to factories or large complexes. It rarely includes the piping functions for water supply or drainage purposes. It includes laying pipes for systems of cooling or heating of buildings and for producing energy for large industrial setups. Also, they look after the allied functions of installing and maintaining gauges and switches that control these systems.
Work Nature
A pipefitter performs work that is highly technical in nature. He is responsible for all installation, repairs and maintenance functions. Besides, core technical work, a pipefitter performs planning and analytical functions as well. A pipe fitter must read the blueprints and instruction manuals, to analyze the requirements and plan the work that is needed. He makes mathematical calculations to measure the exact size of the pipe that needs to be cut. Further, the cut pipe sizes are laid appropriately on the ground and joined with some binding solution, which requires precision. In later stages of the career, a pipefitter performs supervisory, managerial and training functions as well.
Work Requirements
A pipefitter requires a minimum of high school diploma as basic educational qualifications before embarking his career. To acquire field related knowledge, aspirants can enroll their names at the vocational training schools and participate in short term certifications and diploma courses. Alternatively, they can opt to participate in extensive apprenticeship programs of more than 2 years. On job trainings are preferred as candidates get first-hand experience of working as pipefitter. Some states require candidates to acquire licenses by passing exams and completing training. After passing these criteria, one can begin work as a pipefitter.
Work Conditions
Pipefitters work under strenuous work conditions. They perform work that is mentally and physically tiring. Most pipefitting mechanics work at factory or construction sites. Their place of work may be 20 floors up from the ground, or in the basement. Besides, they handle tools and equipments that pose a threat to the pipefitter's life at such difficult places. Pipefitters must be careful in their work and follow all safety measures. Work is performed on contract basis and hence there is no fixed place of work. Work timings are normally set at 45 hours per week. However, since the work is project based and subject to deadlines, pipefitters have to adjust the work timings as per the requirement.
Career advancement Scope
Every pipefitter begins his career working as an intern. Internship allows him an opportunity to learn and grow under the wise training of an expert pipefitter. He is acquainted with the intricacies of pipe fabrication and fitting procedures. The biggest challenge in these profiles is the transition from core technical work to extensive paperwork and meetings. After few years of experience, a pipefitter can excel in his chosen career in following ways.
Salary
The salary grades for pipefitters differ from state to state. The annual average salary received by a pipefitter is $50,000. However, it varies as per the industry type and the qualifications of the candidate. Better the qualifications and experience of the candidate, he will receive higher salary.
Pipefitter work is a laborious job. However, one cannot excel in work unless the strenuous tasks are well supported by strong planning and management. Pipefitter work is vital for the growth of the industries and construction activities. Hence, pipefitter work is one of the rewarding career options for job seekers.