Trades & Construction
How to become a Pipefitter
From no experience: every step, how long it takes, and the credential it earns.
- Time to get there
- 4 years
- Typical pay
- $54k–$82k
- Starting from
- No experience
Pay is an estimate of typical US entry-level pay for this role and varies by state, employer and shift. The timeline assumes you are starting from no experience and includes any licence or programme legally required, not just course length.
See pipefitter jobs open nowThe route
Apply to a UA local or a merit-shop program
Pipefitting and plumbing are separate tickets — make sure you are applying for the right one.
Earn while you learn
Apprentice wage from day one, rising on a set schedule as your hours accrue.
Typical titles at this level
- Pipefitter apprentice
Complete the technical hours
Blueprints, pipe layout, rigging and welding processes over five years of nights.
Course that covers thisBlueprint Reading for Welders Basic Lines, Views and SymbolsUdemy · around $49.99Get code-welding qualified
Process piping and power work depend on your weld tests, not your years.
ASME Section IX weld qualification
Turn out journeyman
Industrial shutdowns and refinery work carry the highest rates, with the travel to match.
- Browse jobs now
Destination
Pipefitter
Course links are Udemy affiliate links. We earn a commission if you buy, at no extra cost to you.