Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
Assemble, install, alter, and repair pipelines or pipe systems that carry water, steam, air, or other liquids or gases. May install heating and cooling equipment and mechanical control systems. Includes sprinkler fitters.
How to read this profile
BLS projects U.S. employment for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters to increase by 6.8% between 2024 and 2034, from 510,600 to 545,200 jobs. Its estimate of 42,000 annual openings includes replacement needs, so it does not represent current vacancies, contract postings, or freelance demand. The wage ($63,800), education (High school diploma or equivalent), and related experience (None) figures on this profile describe typical U.S. employees. O*NET skills describe the occupation; they do not assess an individual worker's proficiency.
Base employment (2024)
510,600
Projected employment (2034)
545,200
Projected change (2024–2034)
7%
Annual openings (projected average)
42,000
Pay & Preparation
$63,800
High school diploma or equivalent
None
Apprenticeship
Essential Skills
Installation (4.75/5) • Critical Thinking (3.5/5) • Reading Comprehension (3.38/5) • Quality Control Analysis (3.38/5) • Active Listening (3.25/5) • Critical Thinking (3.25/5)
O*NET describes occupational requirements; these ratings do not measure current job-posting frequency or an individual worker’s proficiency.
BLS projections are long-term estimates; annual openings include growth and replacement needs and are not current vacancies.
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