pipefitter.

Some of the tasks performed by pipefitters include:

• reading and designing blueprints: as a pipefitter, you design and assemble piping systems. Some new construction projects require you to design blueprints for piping that conveys hot liquids or chemicals in industrial facilities. If you have blueprints, you read and interpret the technical drawings during construction.
• installing complex pipes: your primary responsibility is to plan, assemble and install piping systems. You use blueprints to lay out the pipes. Installation work involves using saws, pipe threaders and cutting torches to cut, hammer and thread pipes to the desired specifications. Sometimes, you weld, braze, solder or cement joints to secure pipes or fittings.
• maintaining and repairing pipes: you perform routine maintenance on piping systems to ensure they maintain their structural integrity. You also oversee repairs and the replacement of worn-out parts. If the automatic pipe control systems aren't working as expected, you check for issues in the installation and adjust the settings.
• responding to emergencies: your job involves responding to emergencies in piping systems. For instance, any blockages or leakage during transportation can cause problems. Your job is to fix the issues promptly.

Pipefitters are fully-fledged journeymen. While you have a central office where you plan and work, you are usually out and about. You go where your skills are needed. Most pipefitters work from construction sites, warehouses and industrial premises. Pipefitters are also essential in many fields that require industrial operations, such as power stations, mines, factories and offshore installations. If you're a supervisor, teacher or trainer, you spend a lot of time behind a desk. When you are a trainer, you can work remotely. However, most pipefitters provide their services in person.

As a pipefitter, expect to travel to different sites regularly. Many jobs require working in damp, dark spaces - wherever pipes and related systems are found. You often work in tight areas, climb ladders and lift heavy tools.

Depending on your employer and the industry you work in, your colleagues might include fitters, welders and plumbers. You might also be working in close proximity to service technicians and machine operators, as well as other specialists that could include, but not be limited to, electricians, fabricators, electrical engineers and mechanics.

Pipefitters generally work 46 to 48 hours weekly, but this is not set in stone. Some employers require you to work on weekends, overnight and during public holidays. Construction and mining sites often need pipefitters on the day and night shifts. A government contract may require a pipefitter during the weekend. Last-minute calls to handle emergencies are not unusual. As a pipefitter, be prepared for the demands of erratic scheduling.

As a pipefitter, you can progress to a supervisor position or become an engineering workshop manager. Some pipefitters improve their skills and work in welding inspection or quality control. Other specialisation opportunities exist in engineering design and insulation work.

Finding your pipefitter job through Randstad provides important advantages such as:

• a wide variety of training and development opportunities
• an experienced contact person to provide help if needed
• a range of opportunities in your area
• get paid weekly or monthly, depending on the job
• temporary and permanent contracts

Want a permanent contract? A temporary job as a pipefitter is often a stepping stone to an attractive permanent job. Every year, thousands of people earn a permanent contract with great employers thanks to a temporary job found through Randstad. What's more, many companies recruit their permanent employees through Randstad too.

As a pipefitter, you develop pipe installation plans or use blueprints to create the pipes. You cut, assemble and install the pipes and test them before they are used to transport various items. You also conduct quality control checks and repair malfunctions in case of faults. As a pipefitter, you perform routine maintenance and ensure the safety and functionality of the pipe systems.

As a pipefitter, your average salary is $98,690 per year. The remuneration package depends on your level of education and expertise. When you are an entry-level pipefitter, you take home $89,681 annually. As your skills improve, your earnings increase to over $110,175 yearly.

Pipefitting is an exciting career if you enjoy working in industrial settings. To excel as a pipefitter, be ready to work in tight spaces and outdoors. It is also an excellent career if you have manual and physical dexterity since you lift heavy materials. Pipefitters receive generous remuneration packages.

While both plumbers and pipefitters work on pipes, they perform different roles. A plumber typically instals and repairs pipework that carries water and waste. They usually work in industrial and domestic settings maintaining low-pressure pipe systems. As a pipefitter, you work in industrial settings creating and maintaining pipes. You work on high-pressure pipes that carry hazardous materials. Your job also involves fixing faulty steam pipes and fuel delivery systems.

Start your career as a pipefitter by completing a trade qualification or apprenticeship. For instance, completing a Certificate III in engineering with a specialisation in mechanical trade equips you with the necessary skills. You also gain work experience through apprenticeships and entry-level work.

Applying for a pipefitter job is easy: create a Randstad profile and search our pipefitter job offers. Then simply send us your CV and cover letter. Need help with your application? Check out all our job search tips here.