Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
Job Zone 3 - Medium preparation needed
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.
Median pay: $63,800/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: +4.5% projected growth, 2024–2034 — about as fast as average.
About 44,000 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• 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.
What's the median pay for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters?
The median pay for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters is $63,800 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters?
Employment for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters is projected to change +4.5% from 2024 to 2034 - about as fast as average.
What education is typically required for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters?
Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.
How many job openings are there each year for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters?
About 44,000 openings per year, on average, over the decade.