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Helpers--Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters

Help plumbers, pipefitters, steamfitters, or pipelayers by performing duties requiring less skill. Duties include using, supplying, or holding materials or tools, and cleaning work area and equipment.

What you’d do

  • Fit or assist in fitting valves, couplings, or assemblies to tanks, pumps, or systems, using hand tools.
  • Mount brackets and hangers on walls and ceilings to hold pipes, and set sleeves or inserts to provide support for pipes.
  • Perform rough-ins, repair and replace fixtures and water heaters, and locate, repair, or remove leaking or broken pipes.
  • Cut pipe and lift up to fitters.
  • Measure, cut, thread and assemble new pipe, placing the assembled pipe in hangers or other supports.
  • Assist pipe fitters in the layout, assembly, and installation of piping for air, ammonia, gas, and water systems.
  • Requisition tools and equipment, select type and size of pipe, and collect and transport materials and equipment to work site.
  • Disassemble and remove damaged or worn pipe.

Skills that matter

  • Active Listening
  • Critical Thinking
  • Judgment and Decision Making
  • Monitoring
  • Coordination
  • Active Learning

How to get there

Little to some preparation: usually a high school diploma or GED, though some jobs do not need one

Also called

  • Pipefitter Helper
  • Plumber Helper
  • Plumbing Apprentice
  • Plumbing Helper
  • Plumber Apprentice
  • Plumber Assistant

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