Pipe Fitters and Steamfitters - 47-2152.01

O*NET-SOC Description

Lay out, assemble, install, and maintain pipe systems, pipe supports, and related hydraulic and pneumatic equipment for steam, hot water, heating, cooling, lubricating, sprinkling, and industrial production and processing systems.

DOT Titles Included in this O*NET-SOC Code

  • Coppersmith
  • Coppersmith Apprentice
  • Gas-Main Fitter
  • Industrial-Gas Fitter
  • Pipe Fitter
  • Pipe Fitter
  • Pipe Fitter, Diesel Engine I
  • Pipe Fitter, Diesel Engine II
  • Pipe-Fitter Apprentice
  • Steam Service Inspector

Sample of Occupations in this SOC Family

Related Occupations

Tasks

  • Assemble and secure pipes, tubes, fittings, and related equipment, according to specifications, by welding, brazing, cementing, soldering, and threading joints.
  • Attach pipes to walls, structures and fixtures, such as radiators or tanks, using brackets, clamps, tools or welding equipment.
  • Cut and bore holes in structures, such as bulkheads, decks, walls, and mains, prior to pipe installation, using hand and power tools.
  • Cut, thread, and hammer pipe to specifications, using tools such as saws, cutting torches, and pipe threaders and benders.
  • Dip nonferrous piping materials in a mixture of molten tin and lead to obtain a coating that prevents erosion or galvanic and electrolytic action.
  • Inspect work sites for obstructions and to ensure that holes will not cause structural weakness.
  • Inspect, examine, and test installed systems and pipe lines, using pressure gauge, hydrostatic testing, observation, or other methods.
  • Install automatic controls used to regulate pipe systems.
  • Lay out full scale drawings of pipe systems, supports, and related equipment, following blueprints.
  • Measure and mark pipes for cutting and threading.
  • Modify, clean, and maintain pipe systems, units, fittings, and related machines and equipment, following specifications and using hand and power tools.
  • Operate motorized pumps to remove water from flooded manholes, basements, or facility floors.
  • Plan pipe system layout, installation, or repair according to specifications.
  • Prepare cost estimates for clients.
  • Remove and replace worn components.
  • Select pipe sizes and types and related materials, such as supports, hangers, and hydraulic cylinders, according to specifications.
  • Turn valves to shut off steam, water, or other gases or liquids from pipe sections, using valve keys or wrenches.

Detailed Work Activities

  • adhere to safety procedures
  • apply adhesives, caulking, sealants, or coatings
  • assemble and install pipe sections, fittings, or plumbing fixtures
  • braze metal parts or components together
  • build or repair structures in construction, repair, or manufacturing setting
  • clean equipment or machinery
  • cut, bend, or thread pipe for gas, air, hydraulic, or water lines
  • cut, shape, fit, or join wood or other construction materials
  • determine installation, service, or repair needed
  • determine material or tool requirements
  • determine project methods and procedures
  • estimate time or cost for installation, repair, or construction projects
  • examine products or work to verify conformance to specifications
  • fabricate, assemble, or disassemble manufactured products by hand
  • identify base metals for welding
  • inspect project operations, or site to determine specification compliance
  • install or replace meters, regulators, or related measuring or control devices
  • lay out piping systems
  • measure and mark reference points or cutting lines on workpieces
  • move or fit heavy objects
  • operate power driven pumps
  • perform safety inspections in construction or resource extraction setting
  • plan or organize work
  • pressure test piping system or equipment for leaks
  • read blueprints
  • read specifications
  • read tape measure
  • read technical drawings
  • repair or replace gas, steam, sewer, or water piping or fixtures
  • repair or replace malfunctioning or worn mechanical components
  • solder metal parts or components together
  • understand construction specifications
  • use acetylene welding/cutting torch
  • use arc welding equipment
  • use basic plumbing techniques
  • use braze-welding equipment
  • use building or land use regulations
  • use combination welding procedures
  • use hand or power tools
  • use hazardous materials information
  • use measuring devices in construction or extraction work
  • use pipe fitting equipment
  • use pressure gauges
  • use soldering equipment
  • weld together metal parts, components, or structures