Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters install and maintain the pipes and systems that deliver water, gas, and steam to homes, businesses, and job sites. It is hands-on, in demand, and you can start without a four-year degree. Here is what the work involves, what it takes, and how to get in.
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You install, repair, and maintain piping systems for water, gas, heating, and steam. Your day involves reading blueprints and design specifications, inspecting pipes and fixtures for leaks or damage, and making decisions about how to solve problems on the job. You handle tools and materials, perform physical work in tight spaces, and communicate with customers about their needs. You also keep records and may manage aspects of a job. The work requires both precision and problem-solving under pressure.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters earn a median of $63,800 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is strong. Employment is projected to grow 5 percent from 2024 to 2034, faster than average for all occupations, with about 44,000 openings a year.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
Most plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters earn a certificate through a trade program before entering the field. You will study building and construction, mechanical systems, design, and mathematics. Many programs combine classroom learning with hands-on training. After certification, you typically apprentice on the job, learning from experienced workers while earning wages. During this time, you develop critical thinking and monitoring skills by troubleshooting systems and inspecting work. Your reading, writing, and math skills grow as you interpret codes and specifications.
Your path typically starts with a certificate program paired with on-the-job apprenticeship. If you are deciding between different training routes or timelines, Pathly can map the plumber, pipefitter, and steamfitter path that fits you with your counselor to map out the steps that fit your situation.
Many plumber, pipefitter, and steamfitters must be licensed, and professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
Licensing is handled at the state level and the requirements vary, so check the licensing board in your state. Pathly shows your state's specific steps inside your roadmap.
You are drawn to hands-on work with tools and systems. You like solving concrete problems, paying close attention to detail, and working in the real world where you can see the results of your effort.
Reading about a career is the easy part. Turning it into a plan is where most students get stuck. Pathly takes you from curious to a clear next step, and gives your counselor the insight to champion you along the way.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).