Pipefitters basically fit pipes, right? Technically yes, but there is a lot more that goes into the role of a Pipefitter. They play a crucial part in engineering construction, working within strictly defined methods and procedures to the highest standards. Can you adhere to the necessary standards for quality, risk, and health and safety? If so, read on and find out how you can launch your construction career with a level 3 Engineering Construction Pipefitter Apprenticeship.
What Exactly does an Engineering Construction Pipefitter do?
The positioning, assembly, fabrication, maintenance, repair, and removal of piping systems are all included within the Engineering Construction Pipefitter role, which can be performed on construction sites or in industrial fabrication facilities. Pipefitters can perform hazardous tasks, such as working at heights, over water, and in confined areas.
This profession is frequently overlooked and occasionally mistaken for that of a plumber. The difference is that plumbers usually work with low-pressure pipe systems like those found in utility systems or the field of water sanitation, where pipefitters mostly work in welding. If you would like to discover what the differences between plumbers and pipefitters in detail, here is a great blog explaining the two.
Where would an Engineering Construction Pipefitter work?
An Engineering Construction Pipefitter can work in locations where there are systems that could transport water, steam, food, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, gas, hydrocarbons, or fuel that could be used for cooling, heating, lubricating, or other operations.
Common large infrastructure projects include power plants, oil and gas facilities both in the UK and abroad.
What skills/qualifications do I need to become an Engineering Construction Pipefitter Apprentice?
A minimum of three GCSEs (or equivalent) at grade C or above, including English, Math, and a Science or Technology-based topic are the requirements that employers tend to ask for. Before taking the end-point assessment, apprentices without level 2 English and math will need to get to that level.
Here 7 essential skills and knowledge required to become a successful Pipefitter:
- The ability to operate, maintain, and repair equipment
- Understanding of construction and building
- Knowledge of engineering science and technology
- Being thorough and a high attention to detail
- Ability to work well with others
- Able to use your initiative
- Capable of performing basic tasks on a computer or portable device
How long does it take to complete an Engineering Construction Pipefitter Apprenticeship?
Depending on prior experience or education, the length of this pipefitter construction engineer apprenticeship may vary from person to person. However, the average person will need 36 to 42 months to complete this apprenticeship. This may feel like a long time, but the knowledge you will gain during this time will be invaluable to the long-term success in your career.
Engineering Construction Pipefitter Salary
The average Engineering Pipefitter Apprentice salary in the UK is around £19,432 per year.
A qualified pipefitter has an average pay of £37,050 per year, or £19 per hour. Most experienced workers earn up to £46,800 per year, while entry-level roles start at £33,150.
Conclusion
Now that we have covered everything, we now know that there’s a lot more to the Pipefitter role than the name implies and it is definitely not the same as a plumber! The prospects of this career can be very rewarding for the person who is good with their hands, not afraid of confined spaces or heights and can perform basic skills to a consistently high standard.
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