Work Environment
This occupation is typically found in the following Career Sector(s):
Videos on the Web
- Pipe Fitter- from: Youtube Search
Most commonly reported Work Activities
- Performing General Physical Activities Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling of materials.
- Getting Information Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
- Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Material Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
- Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events Identifying information by categorising, estimating, recognising differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
- Handling and Moving Objects Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
- Making Decisions and Solving Problems Analysing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
- Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
- Controlling Machines and Processes Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
- Operating Vehicles, Mechanised Devices, or Equipment Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanised equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or water craft.
- Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Working Life
- Learning and developing new practical craft-related skills, knowledge and competence
- Working with and learning from experienced craftspersons.
- Seeing a job through from start to finish
- Comply with Health and Safety requirements
- Working with technical drawings and diagrams
- Using tools or machinery to fabricate industrial components
- Accuracy and attention to detail
- Being well organised and careful with practical tasks
- Working at heights
- Lifting or carrying heavy items
- Taking responsibility for own learning, including the allocation of study time
- Being physically active
- Passing all your phase exams (theory, practicals, skills demonstrations).
- Working in a noisy environment
- Bending and kneeling
- Working in cramped and awkward spaces
Most commonly reported Work Tasks
- 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.
- Modify, clean, or maintain pipe systems, units, fittings, or related machines or equipment, using hand or power tools.
- Select pipe sises, types, or related materials, such as supports, hangers, or hydraulic cylinders, according to specifications.
- Assemble pipe sections, tubing, or fittings, using couplings, clamps, screws, bolts, cement, plastic solvent, caulking, or soldering, brasing, or welding equipment.
- Install pipe assemblies, fittings, valves, appliances such as dishwashers or water heaters, or fixtures such as sinks or toilets, using hand or power tools.
- Install automatic controls to regulate pipe systems.
Qualities - Pipe Fitter
As a Pipefi tter you will need to be physically active and to be able to work with your hands.
An awareness of health and safety and good housekeeping is essential as well as attention to detail.
The Pipe fitter must have the ability to:
• Plan and organise
• Communicate effectively
• Solve problems
• Work independently and as part of a team
• Show a positive attitude
• Demonstrate good work practices including time keeping, tidiness, responsibility, quality awareness and safety awareness
Interests - Pipe Fitter
This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:
Realist
Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.
Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.
Entry / Progression - Pipe Fitter
There are many pathways to develop skills & qualifications towards a career as a Pipe Fitter technician.
Sample Education and Training Pathways
A number of courses are available throughout the country that focus on learning and skills that may be useful for this career. The examples and links below may guide you in your research.
Further Education (FET)
Further Education & Training (FET) Courses are delivered by local ETBs, ranging in duration from several weeks up to 20 months. Courses are designed to meet the labour market needs and often include a large element of work experience.
Example search terms include: engineering operations, technology, construction, pre-apprenticeship maintenance & engineering.
Search for FET Courses
PLC Courses (FET)
PLC courses are full-time courses, one or two years duration, with awards at Level 5 and 6 on the NFQ. They are offered nationally in Schools and Colleges of Further Education.
Example search terms include: engineering operations, technology, construction, pre-apprenticeship maintenance & engineering.
Search for PLC Courses
Apprenticeships:
Apprenticeships are structured work-based training programs that combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. They run from 2 – 4 years and are open to individuals of all ages, including school leavers, those seeking a career change, and existing employees who wish to upskill.
Examples: Pipe Fitter Apprenticeship.
Search for Apprenticeships
The minimum age at which the employment of an apprentice may commence is 16 years of age.
Entry requirements:
Grade D or "Achieved" in five subjects in the Department of Education & Skills Junior Certificate Examination or an approved equivalent
or
The successful completion of an approved pre-apprenticeship course
or
Three years’ work experience gained over sixteen years of age in a relevant designated industrial activity as SOLAS shall deem acceptable.
You must obtain a job as an apprentice in your chosen occupation. Your employer must be approved to train apprentices and must register you as an apprentice within 2 weeks of recruitment.
Pay & Salary - Pipe Fitter
Salary Range (thousands per year)* €30k - €55k
Salaries vary based on employer, location, experience, duties, project or sessional rate, and role.
Data Source(s):
Payscale / Indeed / Glassdoor / Solas/ Excel/ WRC
Last Updated: March, 2024
Labour Market Updates - Pipe Fitter
Useful Contacts - Pipe Fitter
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Construction Industry Federation
