Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
Architecture & Construction · Construction
Pay and outlook shown for
New workers start near $37,240; experienced workers reach $78,530. About 3,190 people do this job in San Antonio-New Braunfels, TX.
Job outlook
Alamo region (San Antonio and 12 surrounding counties), Texas Workforce Commission projection 2024 to 2034; U.S. figures from the BLS.
- Employment change
- +10.2%
- Openings a year
- 342
- Employed in 2024
- 3,580
Typical entry education: High school diploma or equivalent · Training: Apprenticeship
Alamo Colleges programs that lead here
1 program, with the college that teaches each.
Skills this career uses
The skills O*NET rates most important for the job, with how much of each the work needs on a 1 to 7 scale.
- Critical Thinking3.5
- Troubleshooting3.1
- Repairing3.1
- Judgment and Decision Making3.1
- Monitoring2.9
- Coordination3.0
- Operations Monitoring3.0
- Complex Problem Solving2.9
What the work is
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.
- 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.
- Inspect, examine, or test installed systems or pipe lines, using pressure gauge, hydrostatic testing, observation, or other methods.
- Plan pipe system layout, installation, or repair, according to specifications.
- Attach pipes to walls, structures, or fixtures, such as radiators or tanks, using brackets, clamps, tools, or welding equipment.
- Modify, clean, or maintain pipe systems, units, fittings, or related machines or equipment, using hand or power tools.
Education people in this job have
Share of workers by highest education, from O*NET surveys. It shows what others did, not what you must do.
- High school or less43%
- Certificate43%
- Some college5%
- Associate degree9%
Job zone 3, medium preparation: Training, an associate degree, or a few years of related experience.
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