Plumbers - 47-2152.02

O*NET-SOC Description

Assemble, install, and repair pipes, fittings, and fixtures of heating, water, and drainage systems, according to specifications and plumbing codes.

DOT Titles Included in this O*NET-SOC Code

  • Plumber
  • Plumber
  • Plumber Apprentice
  • Water-Softener Servicer-And-Installer

Sample of Occupations in this SOC Family

Related Occupations

Tasks

  • Assemble pipe sections, tubing and fittings, using couplings, clamps, screws, bolts, cement, plastic solvent, caulking, or soldering, brazing and welding equipment.
  • Clear away debris in a renovation.
  • Cut openings in structures to accommodate pipes and pipe fittings, using hand and power tools.
  • Direct workers engaged in pipe cutting and preassembly and installation of plumbing systems and components.
  • Fill pipes or plumbing fixtures with water or air and observe pressure gauges to detect and locate leaks.
  • Hang steel supports from ceiling joists to hold pipes in place.
  • Install oxygen and medical gas in hospitals.
  • Install pipe assemblies, fittings, valves, appliances such as dishwashers and water heaters, and fixtures such as sinks and toilets, using hand and power tools.
  • Install underground storm, sanitary and water piping systems and extend piping to connect fixtures and plumbing to these systems.
  • Keep records of assignments and produce detailed work reports.
  • Locate and mark the position of pipe installations, connections, passage holes, and fixtures in structures, using measuring instruments such as rulers and levels.
  • Measure, cut, thread, and bend pipe to required angle, using hand and power tools or machines such as pipe cutters, pipe-threading machines, and pipe-bending machines.
  • Perform complex calculations and planning for special or very large jobs.
  • Prepare written work cost estimates and negotiate contracts.
  • Repair and maintain plumbing, replacing defective washers, replacing or mending broken pipes, and opening clogged drains.
  • Review blueprints and building codes and specifications to determine work details and procedures.
  • Study building plans and inspect structures to assess material and equipment needs, to establish the sequence of pipe installations, and to plan installation around obstructions such as electrical wiring.
  • Use specialized techniques, equipment, or materials, such as performing computer-assisted welding of small pipes, or working with the special piping used in microchip fabrication.

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 rooms or work areas
  • compute production, construction, or installation specifications
  • 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
  • direct and coordinate activities of workers or staff
  • estimate time or cost for installation, repair, or construction projects
  • fabricate, assemble, or disassemble manufactured products by hand
  • install household appliances
  • install underground storm, sanitation, or water piping systems
  • lay out piping systems
  • maintain or repair work tools or equipment
  • maintain records, reports, or files
  • maintain repair records
  • measure and mark reference points or cutting lines on workpieces
  • move or fit heavy objects
  • negotiate business contracts
  • 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
  • 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 measuring devices in construction or extraction work
  • use oral or written communication techniques
  • use pipe fitting equipment
  • use pressure gauges
  • use soldering equipment
  • verify levelness or verticality, using level or plumb bob
  • weld together metal parts, components, or structures