Helpers--Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
What is a Helpers--Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters?
Helpers--Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters assist skilled tradespeople in the installation, repair, and maintenance of piping systems and plumbing fixtures. They perform various supportive tasks, such as preparing materials, transporting tools, and assisting in various on-site duties, which may include helping to install or repair water supply lines, waste disposal systems, and heating systems. These helpers often work in construction, maintenance, or repair roles across residences, commercial buildings, and industrial environments. Their responsibilities may also include organizing and cleaning workspaces, measuring and cutting pipes, loading and unloading materials, and adhering to safety standards and regulations. This entry-level position offers an opportunity to gain valuable experience and knowledge in the plumbing and piping trade, often serving as a stepping stone toward becoming a fully licensed plumber or pipefitter.
Tasks
- 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.
Technology Skills
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Spreadsheet software
- Microsoft Excel
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Office suite software
- Microsoft Office software
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Word processing software
- Microsoft Word
Tools Used
- Specialty wrenches
- Drain or pipe cleaning equipment
- Pipe or tube cutter
- Levels
- Power grinders
Knowledge
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Building and Construction
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
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Customer and Personal Service
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
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Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
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Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
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English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Skills
Abilities
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Manual Dexterity
The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
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Arm-Hand Steadiness
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
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Multilimb Coordination
The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
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Extent Flexibility
The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
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Near Vision
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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High school diploma or equivalent
or: GED, High School Equivalency Certificate
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Post-secondary certificate
Awarded for training completed after high school (for example, in Personnel Services, Engineering-related Technologies, Vocational Home Economics, Construction Trades, Mechanics and Repairers, Precision Production Trades)
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Master's degree
Work Activities
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Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
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Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards
Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
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Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
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Handling and Moving Objects
Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
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Performing General Physical Activities
Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
Detailed Work Activities
- Install plumbing or piping.
- Cut metal components for installation.
- Maintain plumbing structures or fixtures.
- Cut openings in existing structures.
- Drill holes in construction materials.
Work Interests
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Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
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Conventional
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$29780.0 - $50920.0
This career will grow rapidly in the next few years.
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.