How to become a pipefitter

What is a pipefitter?

First things first, you might be wondering exactly what is a pipefitter? And what does a pipefitter do? Well, a pipefitter is just one of the various specialised types of plumbers out there!

Some pipefitters will work on commercial projects as part of larger firms, and some will work as part of smaller plumbing teams.

Put simply, pipefitters are skilled tradespeople who:

• Assemble
• Install
• Repair

They work with piping systems that carry liquids and gasses. As such, as a pipefitter, you’d be responsible for ensuring safe, precise installations.

Around the home, plumbers will tend to work with PVC or copper, but pipefitters can work with a broader scope of materials such as metals.

What are the skills and responsibilities needed?

If you’re wondering about a general pipefitter job description, we’ve delved into some of the day-to-day responsibilities below:

• Assemble and modify parts in a workshop, to get them ready for installation
• Transport pipe components between different destinations
• Install and fuse pipework, using both bolts and welding techniques
• Travel to different destinations to carry out thorough maintenance checks
• Identify and amend faults in piping systems
• Respond promptly to emergency call-outs

Of course, these are just some of the responsibilities of a pipefitter, and duties will tend to vary daily. And, as you grow in your career, your tasks and responsibilities will grow with you!

As a pipefitter, once you start your own plumbing business you can set the tasks and jobs based on the number of leads you have coming in.

Why should you become a pipefitter?

Now you know what pipefitting entails, you might be wondering ‘Why should I become a pipefitter?’

Well, with predicted industry growth, both in the private and commercial sector, training to become a pipefitter is an excellent career choice.

Do you think you have what it takes?

• Enjoy hands-on work?
• Are you mechanically inclined?
• Have a detail-orientated mind?

It might be a specialist career, so you could upskill or learn a new trade, either way a career in pipefitting may be ideal for you.

What attributes should a pipefitter have?

It’s commonly known that becoming a plumber takes skill, training, and commitment.

But what specific skills does a pipefitter need? Below we’ve outlined some of the necessary ones you’ll need to obtain:

• Problem-solving – When issues arise, you’ll need to be able to use your initiative
• Hands-on work – You’ll need to utilise your hands effectively to cut and weld pipes
• Mechanically minded – Getting mechanical skills and knowledge of engineering science is often useful
• Resilient under pressure – Emergency situations may arise, and you’ll need to react quickly under pressure
• Detail-orientated – You’ll need to be thorough and pay attention to the small details
• General teamwork – As pipefitting jobs generally involve people working together, you’ll need to be able to work with others

To become a pipefitter, you need the right personality, attributes and skills. But getting the right skills means going on specific training courses or working as an apprentice first.

What relevant qualifications will I need?

There are various ways in which you can train to become a pipefitter. A popular route is by completing college qualifications, some of which include:

• Level 2 Diploma in Engineering
• Level 2 in Welding
• Level 2 in Plumbing and Heating
• Level 3 diploma in Building Services and Engineering
• T Level in Building Services Engineering for Construction

Formal qualifications and college courses are bound to help you kickstart your career in pipefitting. Make sure to check entry requirements before you apply.

Another route into plumbing is through completing an apprenticeship. Some of the most common pipefitting apprenticeships are:

• Pipe welder apprenticeships
• Engineering construction pipefitter apprenticeships
• Engineering pipefitter apprenticeships

On an apprenticeship, you’ll learn necessary pipefitting skills, as well as safety regulations and how to read and interpret blueprints.

Are pipefitter qualifications required?

While formal pipefitting qualifications may not be mandatory for an employer, they help set you off on the right path. Once you’re an established pipefitter, having formal qualifications can help you progress in your career.

Sometimes, however, people learn best by shadowing an experienced individual in their trade. Different routes will work best for different people, so you should carefully consider which pathway is best for you.

Many employers are more than happy to train new recruits, so why not seek out employment with on-the-job training?

What is the next step?

Once you’ve obtained the necessary qualifications or experience, it’s time to seek employment. Or even think about going it alone.

The good news is, there are plentiful job opportunities in pipefitting as it’s an in-demand profession!

• Keep your eye on job boards
• Apply for any relevant roles
• Be proactive and contact local businesses

Also, if you’re hoping to work locally, why not get in touch with other plumbing businesses to see whether if they need another pair of hands?

How to excel as a pipefitter

In order to excel, you’ll need to commit to constantly learning and growing. You could enrol yourself in new courses to brush up on your skills. Also, make sure to stay up to date with industry trends and changes!

Becoming a pipefitter requires:

• Education
• Training
• Dedication

By following these steps, you’ll be able to establish a successful pipefitting career! Who knows, once you’re an experienced pipefitter, you could even start a pipefitting business of your own?

Checkatrade help support pipefitters

As a pipefitter, it’s vital you’re equipped with the necessary equipment to keep you safe.

And, if you join Checkatrade, you’ll get access to multiple member benefits, such as discounts on tools and workwear. Our fixed membership option lets you build the plan that’s perfect for you and your business needs.

As a Checkatrade member, we can help you with:

• Regular job leads relevant to your skills
• Offers and discounts on business essentials
• Guaranteeing jobs for 12 months when booked through us (T&Cs apply)
• 20% off the cost of your public liability insurance

Our fixed term membership plans give you an easier way to help manage marketing spend for a set volume of leads.

So, why not get in touch today and learn everything you need to know about the sign-up process?

Pipefitting FAQS

How long does it take to train as a pipefitter?

If you go down the apprenticeship route, it will usually take you around 4-5 years to fully train as a pipefitter.

It all depends on what kind of training route you embark upon. Pipefitting is rewarding, so you’re bound to reap the benefits of your hard work.

How much do pipefitters earn?

Estimations put the average salary of a pipefitter in the UK at around £37,832. However, your salary will depend on your skill level as well as the specifics of your job role.

Content disclaimer: This content has been created for general information purposes and should not be taken as formal advice. Read our full disclaimer here.