Occupation information for

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

Currently Employed: 11,810

Projected Annual Job Openings: 1,580

Typical Hourly Wage: $22.68 - $40.34

Typical Annual Salary: $47,200 - $83,900

• Assemble pipe sections, tubing, or fittings, using couplings, clamps, screws, bolts, cement, plastic solvent, caulking, or soldering, brazing, or welding equipment.
• Install pipe assemblies, fittings, valves, appliances such as dishwashers or water heaters, or fixtures such as sinks or toilets, using hand or power tools.
• Keep records of work assignments.
• Maintain or repair plumbing by replacing defective washers, replacing or mending broken pipes, or opening clogged drains.
• Direct helpers engaged in pipe cutting, preassembly, or installation of plumbing systems or components.
• Fill pipes or plumbing fixtures with water or air and observe pressure gauges to detect and locate leaks.
• Locate and mark the position of pipe installations, connections, passage holes, or fixtures in structures, using measuring instruments such as rulers or levels.
• Measure, cut, thread, or bend pipe to required angle, using hand or power tools or machines, such as pipe cutters, pipe-threading machines, or pipe-bending machines.
• Review blueprints, building codes, or specifications to determine work details or procedures.
• Estimate time, material, or labor costs for use in project plans.

• Drain or pipe cleaning equipment
• Pipe or tube cutter
• Pipe wrenches
• Pressure indicators
• Specialty wrenches

• Accounting software
• Analytical or scientific software
• Computer aided design CAD software
• Project management software
• Word processing software