How to Be Pipefitter Laborer - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Feb 10, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

Professional Organizations

FAQ

Links

Pipefitting is an essential task in the construction industry, and its importance cannot be overstated. It requires skilled labor and specialized knowledge to complete, and is often done in conjunction with welding. Laborers are often tasked with assisting Pipefitters in the completion of these projects.

This involves providing a multitude of services such as carrying heavy materials, welding parts together, and handling the various tools and equipment necessary to complete the job. The effects of this work are seen in the successful installation of pipes and other systems, which help ensure that buildings are safe and secure. Furthermore, proper pipefitting is essential for the proper functioning of plumbing, heating, cooling and other vital systems within a structure.

Without laborers and Pipefitters working together, these important tasks would not be completed.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Pipefitters require a high school diploma or equivalent to enter the occupation.
Complete an apprenticeship program. Pipefitters typically complete a 4-year apprenticeship program, which includes classroom and on-the-job training. Apprenticeships are offered through trade unions, employers, and joint union-management organizations.
Obtain certification. Certification is available through organizations such as the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER). To be eligible for certification, you must have at least 144 hours of related instruction.
Pursue continuing education. Pipefitters can benefit from continuing education courses and seminars offered by trade organizations and employers.
Consider becoming a pipefitter laborer. A pipefitter laborer generally assists pipefitters with tasks such as loading and unloading materials, digging trenches, and cleaning up job sites.

A reliable and capable pipefitter laborer is essential for the success of any construction project. Proper training and experience are key components in ensuring a successful outcome. To become a reliable and capable pipefitter laborer, one must first be properly trained in the use of tools and equipment.

This training should include safety protocols, as well as the knowledge of how to properly work with different types of pipes and fittings. It is also important to have a solid understanding of the various types of piping systems, and how they work together. Once the proper training is complete, it is crucial to gain experience in the field.

This can be done by working on a variety of projects and learning from more experienced individuals. Having a strong work ethic and the ability to follow instructions are also important factors in becoming an effective pipefitter laborer. With the right training, experience, and dedication, a pipefitter laborer can become reliable and capable, and help ensure the success of any construction project.

You may want to check Shipyard Laborer, Millwright Laborer, and Forestry Laborer for alternative.

Job Description

Cut, thread, and install pipes, fittings, valves, and other components to specified layout.
Inspect and test installed systems for leaks and other malfunctions.
Assemble and secure pipes, fittings, and related equipment according to specifications.
Measure, cut, thread and assemble new pipe, using tools such as saws, cutting torches, threaders, and benders.
Install supports for pipe systems and equipment according to specifications.
Lay out full scale drawings of pipe systems and fabricate pipe supports, hangers, and hydraulic cylinders.
Read blueprints and other diagrams to determine the type of pipe and its dimensions.
Assist in the installation of chillers, boilers, and other industrial equipment as needed.
Secure pipes to structures with clamps, brackets and other hangers.
Test pipes for leaks using various techniques including pressure gauges and hydrostatic testing.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of plumbing and pipefitting systems and components, including codes and industry standards.
Ability to read and understand blueprints and schematics.
Knowledge of various tools and equipment used in the trade, including welding and cutting torches, threading machines, saws, and other hand tools.
Ability to work in confined spaces and at heights.
Ability to lift heavy objects and work in uncomfortable positions.
Ability to work in extreme temperatures.
Ability to troubleshoot and problem solve.
Excellent organizational and time management skills.
Knowledge of safety practices and procedures in the workplace.
Ability to follow detailed instructions and take direction from supervisors.

Pipefitters are responsible for installing and maintaining pipes and pipe systems in both residential and commercial buildings. As such, the most important skill for a Pipefitter Laborer is the ability to understand and read blueprints. This includes being able to recognize different pipe sizes, materials, and fittings, as well as having a good knowledge of the relevant codes and regulations.

strong problem solving skills are essential for diagnosing issues with existing piping systems, as well as for anticipating potential problems when designing new ones. good physical strength and stamina is also important for maneuvering heavy pipes and equipment. Having a solid understanding of welding and soldering techniques is also beneficial, as these skills are often needed when joining pipe sections together.

Finally, a good attention to detail is necessary to ensure that all work is carried out to a high standard and that any potential safety issues are addressed.

Carpet Layer Laborer, Cement Finisher Laborer, and Orange Grove Laborer are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in pipefitting or labor?
What do you know about the different types of pipes and pipe systems?
How do you ensure accuracy when measuring and cutting pieces of pipe?
Describe your experience with threading and soldering pipes.
What safety procedures do you follow when working with pipes?
Explain how to install and join pipes to fixtures and tanks.
Are you familiar with the different tools and equipment used for pipefitting?
Describe a time when you had to troubleshoot a pipe issue.
How would you handle a situation where you are tasked with more work than is physically possible to complete?
What do you think makes a successful pipefitting or labor job?

Common Tools in Industry

Pipe Cutter. A tool used to cut pipes into a desired length. (eg: pipe cutter wheel)
Pipe Fitter. A tool used to secure pipes together. (eg: pipe wrench)
Pipe Bender. A tool used to bend pipes into a desired shape. (eg: manual pipe bender)
Threader. A tool used to create threads on the end of pipes. (eg: ratchet threader)
Flaring Tool. A tool used to flare the ends of a pipe so it can be connected to other fittings. (eg: flaring tool kit)
Wrench. A tool used to tighten or loosen nuts and bolts. (eg: adjustable wrench)
Pipe Vice. A tool used to hold pipes in place while being worked on. (eg: pipe vice clamp)
Pipe Reamer. A tool used to smooth out the inside of a pipe. (eg: pipe reamer kit)
Measuring Tape. A tool used to measure the length of pipes and other objects. (eg: steel tape measure)
Pliers. A tool used for gripping or cutting objects. (eg: combination pliers)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Welding Society (AWS)
National Association of Pipe Fabricators and Fitters (NAPF)
United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry (UA)
Association of Pipe Welders International (APWI)
Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors' National Association (SMACNA)
American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)
International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO)
American Petroleum Institute (API)
International Brotherhood of Boilermakers (IBB)

We also have Production Laborer, Agriculture Laborer, and Roofer Laborer jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Pipefitting The process of assembling and installing pipes that are used to transport liquids and gases.
Welding The process of joining two pieces of metal together by applying heat and pressure.
Brazing A metal joining process that uses a brazing alloy to join two or more metal surfaces together.
Soldering A metal joining process that uses a soldering alloy to join two or more metal surfaces together.
Threading The process of cutting threads into the inside of a pipe.
Flaring The process of creating a conical shape in the end of a pipe, which helps to form a tight seal when connecting other pipes.
Grooving The process of cutting grooves into a pipe or tube in order to create a tight seal when joining other pipes.
Pressure Testing The process of testing the pressure of a system by filling it with a liquid or gas and measuring the pressure at various points within the system.
Leak Detection The process of finding and repairing any leaks in a system by using specialized equipment and techniques.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the primary duties of a Pipefitter Laborer?

Pipefitter Laborers are responsible for cutting, threading, bending, and welding pipe to install and repair systems such as water and waste lines, drains, and heating systems.

What qualifications are required to become a Pipefitter Laborer?

To become a Pipefitter Laborer, individuals must typically have a high school diploma or equivalent and complete an apprenticeship program that lasts three to four years. In addition, experience in plumbing, welding, and pipefitting is beneficial.

What type of safety equipment is required for a Pipefitter Laborer?

Pipefitter Laborers must wear protective clothing such as steel-toed boots, hard hats, face shields, goggles, respirators, and reflective vests when performing their duties.

What tools are used by a Pipefitter Laborer?

Common tools used by Pipefitter Laborers include wrenches, pipe cutters, benders, threaders, and welding torches.

What are the working conditions for a Pipefitter Laborer?

Pipefitter Laborers typically work in cramped and uncomfortable environments while standing, bending, and kneeling for long periods of time. They may also be exposed to extreme temperatures, loud noises, and hazardous materials.