Steamfitters assemble, install, alter, and repair pipelines or pipe systems that carry water, steam, compressed air, liquids, and gases required for processing, manufacturing, heating, and cooling. They install piping and tubing made of carbon steel, copper, plastic, glass or other metals using a variety of processes including brazing, welding, screwing, gluing, bending, and mechanical joints. Work includes installation of heating and cooling equipment and mechanical control systems.

Working Conditions

Steamfitter's work in industrial plants, chemical plants, refineries power plants, waste water treatment plants, hospitals, and most other commercial, industrial, institutional, and residential buildings. The indoor or outdoor work requires strenuous physical stamina with walking, standing, climbing, lifting, and working in cramped spaces or in high areas. Steamfitter's work in buildings, trenches, roofs, from scaffolding, on ladders, and inside tanks. Safety training reduces hazards from exposure to chemicals, gases, fumes, loud noise, and falls from ladders and scaffolds.

Training

• Five-year program
• 7,500 hours on-the-job training
• 624 hours paid related instruction
• 210 hours unpaid related instruction
• Additional related instruction may be required

Classroom subjects include drafting and blueprint reading, mathematics, applied physics and chemistry, and safety.

Application Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Meets required norms on TABE test
• Physically able to perform trade work
• Valid driver's license or reliable transportation