Ready to get started? Here are some resources and pathways you can explore to get started in a successful career as a plumber/pipefitter!
P lumber or Pipefitter
Be a vital link in the industry.
Are you interested in a hands-on job that is increasingly in demand? As a plumber/pipefitter, you skills are needed in all areas of construction — from residential to commercial and industrial settings. Through the installation, repair and maintenance of pipes, plumbers/pipefitters enjoy high-paying and rewarding careers.
T he Perks
As a plumber/pipefitter, you’re relied on to provide quick and thorough assessments in homes and businesses. If you’re looking for a career that offers training, growth opportunities and job security, this is an excellent path for you.
5
Years
On-the-job apprenticeships to become a plumber/pipefitter typically take 4-5 years.
16
Growth
Plumber/pipefitter jobs will grow by approximately 16% between 2016 and 2026.
53,910
Salary
The average annual salary for a plumber/pipefitter is $53,910.
Mike Murray
Plumber/Pipefitter
My career allows me to work in a wide range of settings and know I’m helping others by fixing challenging problems. I’ve also been given the training I need to succeed — without going into debt.
W hat Do I Need?
Plumbing and pipefitting is an excellent pathway if you’re looking to start building an exciting career.
High School Diploma or Equivalent
Most plumbers and pipefitters can begin their careers right out of high school or with an equivalent degree.
On-the-Job Training
You’ll likely learn your trade through a 4- or 5-year apprenticeship, receiving 2,000 hours of paid training while you’re on the job.
Attention to Detail
Plumbers and pipefitters need to be able to see issues with equipment and solve them, often in tight spaces.
Mechanical Skills
You’ll be required to use many tools and complex equipment in order to make installations and repairs.
Troubleshooting Techniques
Plumbers and pipefitters frequently use trial and error, so you’ll need to have patience in pinpointing the precise issues at hand.
Communication Skills
As a plumber/pipefitter, you’ll need to clearly explain your work to both customers and other workers on the job as needed.
Y our Resources
Careers at Woodard Cleaning & Restoration
At Woodard, we ensure that our employees have ongoing opportunities to grow. Earl and Nancy Woodard built the company on respect for our customers and employees, and The Woodard Way empowers us to honor them and keep that legendary service strong with our core values of: Do what’s right, Serve others, and Learn every day. Make a difference and join the Woodard Team, we have the right opportunities for the right people.
MET Center Industrial Certification Program
This 4-week course will provide students with the basic industry certifications required to work in today’s high growth job market. Training includes orientation to the high growth industries, workplace vocational math, and introduction to blueprint reading, precision measuring, pc fundamentals, osha-10 certification, and forklift certification.
Near Southside Employment Coalition
NSEC trains students in office skills and construction trades. They offer free basic skills assessment, job readiness education and training, career assessment and planning, computer classes, summer youth internships, and more.
Missouri Women in Trades
MOWIT is dedicated to expanding opportunities for women to enter and succeed in apprenticeship and careers in the construction and building trades of the greater St. Louis area. MOWIT supports women in accessing and advancing in all construction trades through a variety of programs, including workshops, mentoring programs, scholarships, and workshops for girls.
Careers at McCarthy
McCarthy has opportunities available for interested applicants across a broad range of experience levels, from interns to new grads to experienced professionals and skilled craft professionals alike. Explore open positions and opportunities at McCarthy here.
Learn 2 Earn – Ranken Technical College
Learn to Earn consists of a series of STEM activities offered between grades 6 – 12 that promote student participation in STEM careers, with an emphasis on recruiting female students. These registered activites can include in-school, out-of-school, summer activities, or addtional classes. Scholarship funding to Ranken is awarded to participating female students upon successful completion.
Youth Build – Summer Jobs Program
A highly-successful, alternative education program for young people aged 16-24 who have a high school diploma, GED or HSE and are interested in construction careers. Helps low-income youth learn construction skills through building affordable housing and other community assets in their neighborhoods and helps students gain the skills necessary for employment.
