Steamfitters/pipefitters build, assemble, maintain and repair piping systems that carry water, steam, chemicals or fuel in heating, cooling, lubricating and other process piping systems. Because of this, much of their work is industrial. They work indoors or outdoors, and the job can be physically demanding.
Responsibilities
- Install supports, valves, piping and control systems
- Measure, cut, thread, bend and install metal, plastic and fiberglass pipes, valves and fittings
- Weld, cement, solder and join pipes and related equipment
- Read blueprints, drawings and specifications
- Make detailed sketches for pipe and equipment fabrication and installation, as required
- Check systems for leaks and remove and replace worn components
- May prepare cost estimates for clients
What You’ll Need
Entrance Requirements
Usually a combination of 5+ years of construction experience, plus high school, college or industry courses in plumbing to be eligible for certification.
Apprenticeship Program:
4 years, includes technical training, on-the-job training and exam. Journeyperson certificate awarded after successful completion. As an apprentice, you also earn while you learn.
Key Skills & Attributes
(technical training and on the job)
- Strong communication skills, reading and numeracy
- Analytical and problem-solving skills
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints
- Mechanical aptitude
- Manual dexterity
- Strength, stamina and ability to lift heavy materials
- Ability to work at heights and in diverse weather
Start Building Your Skills
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Create an accountHourly Pay
$20.50 - $41.50/hrProjected Construction Worker Retirements
~8,100 by 2029**BuildForce Canada
You enjoy precision work.
You are a critical thinker.
You can understand complex instructions.
Did You Know?
Steamfitters/pipefitters work on systems that operate under extremely high pressure and temperatures. It is critical that they have a thorough knowledge of scientific principles to complete their work safely.
Crane Operator
$27 - 34/hrCrane operators work on cranes or draglines to lift, move, position or place machinery, equipment and other large objects. They can work at construction or industrial sites, ports, railway yards, surface mines or other similar locations. There are three main types of cranes (boom trucks, mobile cranes and tower cranes) and various other types one can specialize in.
Responsibilities
- Operate cranes to lift, move, position or place equipment and materials
- Inspect cranes and calculate capacities and weight
HVAC & Refrigeration Mechanic
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Responsibilities
- Measure and install refrigeration and air conditioning components
- Replace components for heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration systems
Insulator
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Responsibilities
- Apply and secure insulation using spraying, blowing, pasting, strapping, taping and other application and installation methods
- Read and interpret specifications to select the type of insulation required
Ironworker
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Responsibilities
- Position and secure steel bars or metal mesh in concrete forms to reinforce concrete structures
- Erect and install scaffolding, falsework and other working platforms
Labourer
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Responsibilities
- Perform various duties involving lifting, carrying tool use and machinery management
- Install and remove scaffolding, ramps and barricades at construction site
Painters & Allied Trades
$28 - 32/hrPainters apply a range of coatings to beautify, identify and protect interior and exterior surfaces and structures from weather, UV, chemicals, abrasion and fire. From office towers and retail stores to bridges and pipelines, a Red Seal painter does it all.
Responsibilities
- Repair, clean and prepare wood, plaster, stucco, stone, concrete, brick, steel and other materials.
- Apply paint and other materials using brushes, rollers or spray equipment
Piping Trades: Plumber
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Responsibilities
- Read blueprints and drawings for plumbing system layouts, water supply networks and waste and drainage systems
- Determine piping system requirements and pipe sizing
Sheet Metal Worker
$30 - 33/hrSheet metal workers design, create, assemble, install and repair sheet metal products, including heating, venting and air conditioning systems, pollution control systems and other metal structures. They work indoors and outdoors, on construction sites and in shops.
Responsibilities
- Build and install products such as eavestroughs, air and heat ducts, roof decking and sheet metal buildings
- Lay out, measure and mark sheet metal
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Responsibilities
- Build and install products such as eavestroughs, air and heat ducts, roof decking and sheet metal buildings
- Lay out, measure and mark sheet metal