Introduction
When considering a career in the trades, it’s important to know the distinctions between different roles within the industry. Two roles that are often confused are plumbers and pipefitters. While both work with piping systems, their job responsibilities and requirements differ. As a study adviser, I’ve encountered many students who are interested in pursuing a career in the trades, but are unsure of which path to take. In this post, I’ll provide an overview of the differences between plumbers and pipefitters, including required skills, education and training, career outlook, and potential salary. Plus, I’ll offer tips for students who are considering these careers and alternatives to explore in the trades industry.
Plumber
Plumbers are professionals who work with water supply, heating, and drainage systems in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. They install, maintain and repair these systems, which can include pipes, fixtures, water heaters, and appliances. Plumbers must possess skills such as reading blueprints or drawings, measuring and cutting pipes, and soldering or welding pipes together.
Education and training requirements for becoming a plumber vary by state, but most states require completing an apprenticeship program, which usually takes 4-5 years. Apprenticeships combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction in subjects such as math, safety, and plumbing codes. Plumbers must also be licensed and may need to pass an exam to obtain their license.
The job outlook for plumbers is positive, with a projected growth rate of 14% from 2018 to 2028 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Plumbers can earn a median annual wage of $53,910, with top earners making over $95,000.
If you’re considering becoming a plumber, it’s crucial to have strong problem-solving skills, manual dexterity, and physical fitness. Additionally, you should have good communication skills, as you’ll often work with clients and other professionals on job sites.
Pipefitter
Pipefitters are tradespeople who install and maintain piping systems that transport liquids, gases, or steam in power plants, factories, and other industrial settings. They work with pipes of various materials such as steel, copper, and plastic, using tools and techniques like welding, soldering, cutting, and threading. Pipefitters must have excellent math skills, be able to read blueprints and schematics, and understand underground construction safety.
Education and training requirements for becoming a pipefitter vary by state, but most states require completing an apprenticeship program, which can take 4-5 years and includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training. Pipefitters must also be licensed and may need to pass an exam to obtain their license.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for pipefitters is positive, with a projected growth rate of 11% from 2018 to 2028. Pipefitters can earn a median annual wage of $55,160, with top earners making over $94,000.
If you’re considering becoming a pipefitter, you must have good physical fitness and dexterity, as the job can be labor-intensive and requires frequent bending, lifting, and standing. Additionally, problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and critical thinking abilities are essential for success in a pipefitter role.
Comparing Plumber and Pipefitter Roles
While both plumbers and pipefitters work with piping systems, their job responsibilities and requirements differ. Plumbers typically work on residential or commercial plumbing systems, whereas pipefitters work in industrial settings. Plumbers install, maintain and repair piping systems for water supply, heating, and drainage, while pipefitters deal with piping for liquids, gases, or steam in power plants or factories.
The education and training requirements are similar for both professions, with apprenticeship programs being the most common path to entry. Plumbers and pipefitters must both be licensed and pass an exam to obtain their license.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook is positive for both plumbers and pipefitters. Both professions have a projected growth rate of around 14% from 2018 to 2028, with median annual wages ranging from $53,910 for plumbers to $55,160 for pipefitters.
When choosing between becoming a plumber or pipefitter, it’s essential to consider the type of work environment and job duties. Plumbers’ work is more varied and can include residential and commercial projects, whereas pipefitters work mainly in industrial settings. However, pipefitters may have more opportunities for specialization in areas such as welding or steamfitting. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your interests, strengths, and career goals.
Alternatives to Plumber and Pipefitter Careers
If you’re interested in a career in the trades, but plumbing and pipefitting are not for you, there are other options to explore. Electrician and HVAC technician are two other trades to consider. Electricians install and maintain electrical systems in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings, while HVAC technicians are skilled in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
Another alternative to the trades is pursuing a career in the sciences. For example, astrophysics and astronomy involve the study of the universe, from the smallest subatomic particles to the largest structures in existence. If you’re interested in learning more about the differences between astrophysics vs astronomy, check out this resource: https://robertvirona.com/astrophysics-vs-astronomy/
When considering alternatives to plumber and pipefitter careers, it’s important to research and compare education and training requirements, job outlook, and potential salaries to find the best fit for your interests and skills.
Interesting facts
- Plumbers work with water supply and drainage systems in residential or commercial buildings, while pipefitters specialize in the installation, repair, and maintenance of industrial piping systems.
- Both careers require knowledge of safety precautions and specific tools as well as a strong ability to read technical blueprints.
- Plumbers and pipefitters often work in close collaboration with each other, and their skills can overlap in certain situations.
- If you are interested in comparing other healthcare-related careers, check out this comparison between biomedical science and nursing.
FAQ
What is the main difference between a plumber and a pipefitter?
Plumbers work with water supply and drainage systems in residential or commercial buildings, while pipefitters specialize in the installation, repair, and maintenance of industrial piping systems.
Do plumbers and pipefitters have similar skills?
Both careers require knowledge of safety precautions and specific tools as well as a strong ability to read technical blueprints.
Can plumbers and pipefitters work together?
Yes, plumbers and pipefitters often work in close collaboration with each other, and their skills can overlap in certain situations.
What education and training are required to become a plumber or pipefitter?
Requirements vary by state, but both careers typically require a high school diploma or equivalent and a completion of an apprenticeship or trade school program.
What is the career outlook for plumbers and pipefitters?
Both careers are expected to have steady job growth in the coming years.
What is the average salary for a plumber or pipefitter?
The average salary for a plumber is about $55,000 per year, while the average for a pipefitter is about $56,000 per year.
How physically demanding is the work of a plumber or pipefitter?
Both careers require physical labor and may involve working in cramped spaces or at heights.
Can becoming a plumber or pipefitter lead to other opportunities in the trades?
Yes, experience in plumbing or pipefitting can open up opportunities in related trades such as HVAC or welding.
What are some alternative career paths in the trades?
Some alternatives include electrician, HVAC technician, or carpenter.
Is a career in the trades a good choice for job security and stability?
Many trades careers are expected to have steady job growth due to an ever-growing need for skilled workers.
Real experience
Emily always loved fixing things. She got her first toolset from her father when she was just five years old. As she got older, she knew she wanted to work in a field where she could use her hands and her brain. When the time came for her to consider a career path, she was torn between becoming a plumber or a pipefitter.
Emily did her research and found out that plumbers usually worked in residential or commercial buildings, while pipefitters worked on industrial piping systems. Both careers required similar skills, but the working environments were different. Emily liked the idea of working on big commercial or industrial projects as a pipefitter, but also wanted the opportunity to work independently on smaller jobs like unclogging a drain or repairing a sink as a plumber.
She decided to start with a plumbing apprenticeship, knowing that if she didn’t like it, she could always switch to pipefitting. During her apprenticeship, she gained valuable skills and knowledge that helped her land her first job as a full-time plumber. She loved working in residential homes and building relationships with customers. However, she realized that her true passion was working on large industrial projects and seeing the work come to life.
After a few years as a plumber, Emily decided to switch to pipefitting. She enrolled in additional courses to build upon her existing skills and learned how to work with complex piping and ventilation systems. She loved the challenge and the reward of seeing the results of her hard work in large commercial or industrial settings.
Emily was happy with her choice to switch from plumbing to pipefitting and felt fulfilled in her career. She enjoyed the variety of projects and working environments, and never regretted taking a chance to switch career paths.
Conclusion
Choosing a career in the trades can provide many opportunities for fulfilling work and competitive earnings. If you’re deciding between becoming a plumber or pipefitter, it’s important to consider the different job responsibilities and requirements. Plumbers work primarily on residential and commercial systems, while pipefitters work in industrial settings. Both require completing an apprenticeship program, obtaining licensure, and passing an exam.
If plumbing and pipefitting are not for you, there are other options in the trades, such as becoming an electrician or HVAC technician. Electricians install and maintain electrical systems, while HVAC technicians are skilled in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. If you’re interested in learning more about the differences between electrician vs HVAC technician careers, check out this resource: https://www.uei.edu/blog/hvac-technician-vs-electrician/
Whatever path you choose, it’s essential to research and compare various factors such as job outlook, salary potential, and education and training requirements to ensure you are making an informed decision that aligns with your interests and career goals.