Hiring a Pipe Fitter
A pipefitter is an individual who installs, assembles, maintains, and repairs pipe systems of various shapes, sizes, and pressures. They inspect job sites to determine and ascertain the complexity of the job, working for industrial, commercial, and residential projects. Pipefitters ensure proper placement and alignment of the systems as per blueprints, under the close supervision of senior personnel in the functional area. They typically work independently and report to a supervisor. Pipefitters generally work on large-scale projects, and their employment primarily comes from the manufacturing and heavy construction industry. They work as private contractors and also as employees tied to one specific business. The average salary these workers earn in a year is around $58,200, along with overtime earnings of up to $9,000 per year. There are various opportunities for growth within this position. Most pipefitters start their career as an apprentice, and progress to become a journeyman and eventually achieve the rank of a foreman.
Deliverables that are key to the job
Since the work involved is critical in nature, it is important that the pipefitter does the job in the right manner. The primary tasks that are part of the role include installing and maintaining pipes of various materials, inspecting piping for any damage, and recommending repair work to the clients. As per the demand of the project, these tradesmen are often required to map the layout of the piping systems. The materials and related equipment needed to complete the work have to be chosen by the pipefitter. These workers also need to perform routine periodic inspections as and when necessary. Apart from this, the workers are required to follow the precise limits or standards of accuracy. They must work responsibly, and encourage others to follow applicable health and safety-related rules, regulations, and procedures. Some employers assign the task of supervising apprentices to these pipefitters. In such instances, they must provide general direction and guidance to the trainees so that they deliver quality output by working safely and productively.
Prospective candidate requirements
Being a pipefitter requires the job applicant to have a high school diploma or its equivalent education. Depending on the base location of the role, some employers favor candidates who have relevant certifications. Most hiring managers prefer candidates who have experience in this line of work. However, some employers hire apprentices from technical schools for this role. Applicants must have a clear understanding of the general aspects of the job in order to execute the assigned projects successfully. They should be self-motivated and be able to offer prompt solutions while assembling and maintaining piping lines. It is also essential for the applicants to be physically fit and to be able to lift heavy objects and work for long periods. In addition, the candidate must have the ability to read blueprints and use various hand and power tools.
