Pipe fitter | Average UK Salary & Outlook

Pipe fitters install industrial pipework, valves and pumps in factories, commercial premises and large buildings like power stations.

Typical task
Working hours
Attractive values

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.

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 sizes, 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, brazing, 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.
Shut off steam, water, or other gases or liquids from pipe sections, using valve keys or wrenches.
Keep records of work assignments.
Direct helpers engaged in pipe cutting, preassembly, or installation of plumbing systems or components.
Fill pipes or plumbing fixtures with water or air and observe pressure gauges to detect and locate leaks.
Maintain or repair plumbing by replacing defective washers, replacing or mending broken pipes, or opening clogged drains.
Locate and mark the position of pipe installations, connections, passage holes, or fixtures in structures, using measuring instruments such as rulers or levels.
Review blueprints, building codes, or specifications to determine work details or procedures.
Anchor steel supports from ceiling joists to hold pipes in place.
Estimate time, material, or labor costs for use in project plans.
Install underground storm, sanitary, or water piping systems, extending piping as needed to connect fixtures and plumbing.
Inspect structures to assess material or equipment needs, to establish the sequence of pipe installations, or to plan installation around obstructions, such as electrical wiring.
Install green plumbing equipment, such as faucet flow restrictors, dual-flush or pressure-assisted flush toilets, or tankless hot water heaters.
Cut openings in structures to accommodate pipes or pipe fittings, using hand or power tools.
Inspect work sites for obstructions or holes that could cause structural weakness.
Install fixtures, appliances, or equipment designed to reduce water or energy consumption.
Install pipe systems to support alternative energy-fueled systems, such as geothermal heating or cooling systems.
Weld small pipes or special piping, using specialized techniques, equipment, or materials, such as computer-assisted welding or microchip fabrication.
Operate motorized pumps to remove water from flooded manholes, basements, or facility floors.
Repair hydraulic or air pumps.
Repair or remove and replace system components.

Average salary
35,469 GBP *
per year

Average salary for Pipe fitter

35,469 GBP

Average salary for full-time Pipe fitter

Showing:

35,469 GBP
35,469 GBP

Salary over time for Pipe fitter

Salary for this role has increased over time

37,809 GBP
39,505 GBP
34,720 GBP
34,305 GBP
40,087 GBP
44,023 GBP
35,469 GBP
44,412 GBP

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Future outlook for Pipe fitters

Balanced outlook

2% yearly wage growth (on average)

Balanced outlook

53% chance of automation in the future

Which qualifications do I need?

Find out what you need to know in order to become a Pipe fitter and the highest average level of education for people in this role.

Find out which qualifications or skills you need to become a Pipe fitter

You can do a college course, which may help you to get a trainee pipe fitter's job. Courses include:

Level 2 Diploma in Engineering
Level 2 Certificate in Welding
Level 2 Diploma in Plumbing and Heating
Level 3 Diploma in Building Services Engineering

You'll need:

the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
knowledge of building and construction
knowledge of engineering science and technology
to be thorough and pay attention to detail
design skills and knowledge
the ability to work well with your hands
the ability to work well with others
the ability to use your initiative
to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Get the right qualification to begin your journey to becoming a Pipe fitter

Plumbing

Integrity Job requires being honest and ethical. Attention to Detail Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks. Initiative Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges. Concern for Others Job requires being sensitive to others' needs and feelings and being understanding and helpful on the job. Persistence Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.

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Pipe fitter | Average UK Salary & Outlook

Salary statistics

Similar Courses

Introduction to Plumbing

Plumbing Diploma L2 (PT)

NVQ in Plumbing and Heating L2

Plumbing Level 2 Diploma (Reading)

Plumbing Studies Level 2 Diploma

Plumbing Level 2 Diploma (Guilford)

City & Guilds Full Plumbing Package

Home Study Level 2 Plumbing Course

Plumbing Level 2 Diploma (Part-time)

Future outlook for Pipe fitters

Pipe fitter - Your future job?

Which qualifications do I need?

Things to highlight for your Pipe fitter interview

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