Helpers--Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
Construction and Extraction
Pipe is measured, cut, threaded, and assembled, then set into hangers so fitters can complete air, gas, water, or ammonia lines. Openings are cut or drilled through walls and floors; brackets, hangers, and sleeves go on walls and ceilings to hold the run. Pipe is lifted into place, and valves and couplings are fitted onto tanks, pumps, and other equipment. A given day might be a rough-in, a fixture or water-heater swap, or finding and replacing a leak, with materials carried to the site as needed. Tends to suit people who like physical, hands-on repair, following a fitter's layout, and working through problems in the pipe run.
Typical education: High School Diploma or GED
Annual Median Wage in Field (2025)
$42'360
Median Wage Market Position
$42'360
What you might do
- Cut and thread pipe, then set it in hangers
- Assist with layout of air, gas, or water piping
- Cut holes in walls and floors for pipes
- Fit valves and couplings onto tanks or lines
- Hang brackets and supports for pipe runs
- Repair leaks and replace fixtures or heaters
Skills that matter
- Measuring, cutting, and threading pipe
- Finding and fixing leaking pipes
- Cutting holes for pipe runs
- Fitting valves and couplings by hand
- Lifting pipe into place for fitters
- Selecting pipe type and size
AI & the future of this role
Carrying pipe, digging access, and cleaning wet work areas keep helpers on unpredictable jobsites. Parts catalogs or routing tips could streamline some prep, but supporting licensed plumbers and fitters through installation and repair still depends on physical labor.
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Includes O*NET® 30.3 Database information by USDOL/ETA under CC BY 4.0; modified by LostInCareer. Wage/outlook from BLS. Attribution details