Helpers--Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters

What the job really is

Help plumbers, pipefitters, steamfitters, or pipelayers by performing duties requiring less skill. Duties include using, supplying, or holding materials or tools, and cleaning work area and equipment.

At a glance

• Sector: Construction & Extraction
• O*NET-SOC code: 47-3015
• O*NET job zone: 2 — some preparation
• Work sample tasks on file: 12
• Tools and technologies listed: 12

What you actually do

Work sample tasks recorded for this occupation:

• Measure, cut, thread and assemble new pipe, placing the assembled pipe in hangers or other supports.
• Cut or drill holes in walls or floors to accommodate the passage of pipes.
• Perform rough-ins, repair and replace fixtures and water heaters, and locate, repair, or remove leaking or broken pipes.
• Assist pipe fitters in the layout, assembly, and installation of piping for air, ammonia, gas, and water systems.
• Cut pipe and lift up to fitters.
• Fit or assist in fitting valves, couplings, or assemblies to tanks, pumps, or systems, using hand tools.
• Requisition tools and equipment, select type and size of pipe, and collect and transport materials and equipment to work site.
• Mount brackets and hangers on walls and ceilings to hold pipes, and set sleeves or inserts to provide support for pipes.
• Excavate and grade ditches, and lay and join pipe for water and sewer service.
• 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.

Tools and technology

Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office software, Microsoft Word, Adjustable wrenches, Air compressors, Air hammers, Air operated grinders, Air pressure gauges, Air wire brushes, Aligning clamps, Allen wrenches, Alternating current AC welding equipment

What employers expect you to already be comfortable with.

Where this job leads

Related occupations — the usual moves up and sideways:

• Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
• Helpers--Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Workers
• Helpers--Electricians
• Helpers--Carpenters
• Helpers--Painters, Paperhangers, Plasterers, and Stucco Masons
• Helpers--Brickmasons, Blockmasons, Stonemasons, and Tile and Marble Setters
• Boilermakers
• Pipelayers

Getting in

O*NET assigns this occupation job zone 2 (some preparation). The related occupations above are the realistic routes in and out.

Find openings

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Check this against the source

O*NET OnLine: Helpers--Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters — the authoritative public-domain profile this page is derived from, including the full task list, reported skills and the wage estimates for your region.

Derived and rewritten from the public-domain O*NET database (U.S. Department of Labor / Employment and Training Administration). Figures are observations, not promises — always confirm salary, licensing and visa requirements with the employer and the relevant authority.