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Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
Also called : Drain Technician, Fire Sprinkler Service Technician, Pipe Fitter, Pipe Welder, Pipefitter, Plumber, Residential Plumber, Service Plumber, Sprinkler Fitter, Steamfitter
What they do
Assemble, install, alter, and repair pipelines or pipe systems that carry water, steam, air, or other liquids or gases. May install heating and cooling equipment and mechanical control systems. Includes sprinkler fitters.
On the job, one would
- Cut, thread, or hammer pipes to specifications, using tools such as saws, cutting torches, pipe threaders, or pipe benders.
- Lay out full scale drawings of pipe systems, supports, or related equipment, according to blueprints.
- Inspect, examine, or test installed systems or pipe lines, using pressure gauge, hydrostatic testing, observation, or other methods.
- Plan pipe system layout, installation, or repair, according to specifications.
- Attach pipes to walls, structures, or fixtures, such as radiators or tanks, using brackets, clamps, tools, or welding equipment.
KNOWLEDGE
- Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
- Building and Construction
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
- Design
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
- Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
SKILLS
- Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
- Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
- Judgment and Decision Making
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
- Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
- Complex Problem Solving
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
ABILITIES
- Near Vision
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
- Problem Sensitivity
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
- Arm-Hand Steadiness
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
- Manual Dexterity
The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
- Multilimb Coordination
The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
PERSONALITY
People interested in this work, will do well at jobs that need;
- Dependability
Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
- Attention to Detail
Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
- Integrity
Job requires being honest and ethical.
- Cooperation
Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.
- Initiative
Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.
- Leadership
Job requires a willingness to lead, take charge, and offer opinions and direction.
- Achievement/Effort
Job requires establishing and maintaining personally challenging achievement goals and exerting effort toward mastering tasks.
- Persistence
Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.
- Innovation
Job requires creativity and alternative thinking to develop new ideas for and answers to work-related problems.
- Self-Control
Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.
TECHNOLOGY
- Accounting software
- Analytical or scientific software
- Computer aided design CAD software
- Data base user interface and query software
- Electronic mail software
- Facilities management software
- Internet browser software
- Office suite software
- Project management software
- Spreadsheet software
- Web platform development software
EDUCATION AND TRAINING
- Preparation
Medium Preparation Needed
- Education
Training in vocational schools or an Associate deg
- Experience
Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations.
- Jobtraining
Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers.