Pipelayer

Explore This Path

Ideal for those who enjoy hands-on work and building essential infrastructure.
Ensure communities have reliable water and sanitation systems through skilled pipework.
Use advanced tools like lasers and welding to connect and secure vital pipelines.

💰 Earn $54K-$96K

📚 NO DEGREE REQUIRED

⏱️ 6–12 MONTH TRAINING

📈 -2.3% JOB GROWTH

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What You’ll Do

Lay pipe for storm or sanitation sewers, drains, and water mains. Perform any combination of the following tasks: grade trenches or culverts, position pipe, or seal joints.

Install or use instruments such as lasers, grade rods, or transit levels.
Cut pipes to required lengths.
Connect pipe pieces and seal joints, using welding equipment, cement, or glue.
Cover pipes with earth or other materials.
Install or repair sanitary or stormwater sewer structures or pipe systems.

Scoop

Minimum Education

None

Career Prospects

Shaky (Decreasing by 1-5%)

Training Time

6 months to 1 year

Job Openings

2,700 Annually

Median Earnings

$76,900 in California

$47,330 Nationally

$25K

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Best For You If...

YOU Like 💕

Working with my hands

You are skilled in 💫

Active Listening
Critical Thinking
Judgment and Decision Making
Reading Comprehension
Speaking
Writing

You value 🙏

Having support
Having freedom
Personal relationships

Deep Dive

Pipelayer

Explore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.

Pathways to this Career

Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.

Strategic Employment

Strategic employment provides individuals with valuable work experience, opportunities for professional growth and networking, and exposure to an industry where they may want to pursue advancement.

🎓 Paid Work

⏱️ FINISH IN 1-3 years

Vocational School

A vocational school typically equips students with specialized skills and practical training in specific trades or occupations, enhancing their employability and providing direct pathways to relevant careers.

🎓 Skills-Focused

⏱️ FINISH IN 6 months - 2 years

Workforce Development Program

A workforce development program typically enhances participants' opportunities to succeed in the workforce through employment skill-building, career counseling, connections to employers, and pathways to high-demand and high-wage jobs.

🎓 Skills-Focused

⏱️ FINISH IN 6 months - 2 years

Apprenticeship

An apprenticeship typically offers a combination of hands-on training and classroom instruction, leading to practical skills, industry-specific knowledge, and the potential for long-term employment in a specific trade or profession.

🎓 Paid Work

⏱️ FINISH IN 2-5 years