Overview
Steamfitters/Pipefitters
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Steamfitters and pipefitters
Read and interpret drawings, blueprints and specifications to determine layout requirements
Cut openings for pipe in walls, floors and ceilings using hand or power tools or machines
Select type and size of pipe required
Measure, cut, thread and bend pipe to required shape using hand and power tools
Weld, braze, cement, solder and thread joints to join pipes and fabricate sections of piping system
Install supports, valves, piping and control systems
Test system for leaks using testing equipment
Clean and maintain pipe units and fittings and flush system
Remove and replace worn components and reactivate system
May prepare cost estimates for clients.
Sprinkler system installers
Read and interpret drawings, specifications and fire codes to determine layout requirements
Install clamps, brackets and hangers to support piping system and sprinkler and fire protection equipment, using hand and power tools
Select, measure, cut, ream and thread pipe, install sprinkler heads and mount prepared pipe in supports
Join pipes and piping sections using soldering and welding equipment
Connect piping system to water mains, supply tanks, pumps, compressors and control equipment
Installs valves, alarms and associated equipment
Test system for leaks using air or liquid pressure equipment
Service and repair sprinkler system
May prepare cost estimates for clients.
Employment prospects
Annual salary
$52,140
$84,509
$111,892
Job openings
Use this interactive map to explore job openings in different regions across B.C.
British Columbia
432expected job openings (5-year forecast)
Education and training
Employment requirements
Completion of secondary school is usually required.
Completion of a four- to five-year apprenticeship program or A combination of over five years of work experience in the trade and some high school, college or industry courses in steamfitting, pipefitting or sprinkler system installation is usually required to be eligible for trade certification.
Steamfitter-pipefitter trade certification is compulsory in Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba and Alberta and available, but voluntary, in all other provinces and the territories.
Additional information
The Red Seal endorsement allows for interprovincial mobility.
Progression to supervisory positions is possible with experience.
Certification requirements
Mandatory: You need the following certification to practice as Steamfitters/Pipefitters in B.C.
- Skilled Trades Certification - Steamfitters/Pipefitters
Optional: The following certification are optional to practice as Steamfitters/Pipefitters in B.C.
- Steamfitter/Pipefitter Red Seal Certification
Skilled Trades Certification - Steamfitters/Pipefitters
Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification.
To work as a steamfitter or pipefitter in B.C., you will need a SkilledTradesBC certification demonstrating that you have completed the necessary technical training and work experience part of your apprenticeship program.
Steamfitter/Pipefitter Red Seal Certification
Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification.
This career is eligible for Red Seal endorsement. When all levels of your trades training are complete, you can write an Interprovincial Red Seal exam. A successful result demonstrates you have met the national standard for your trade in Canada will allow you to practice your trade outside of B.C. in provinces and territories covered by the Red Seal certification.
Post-secondary programs in B.C.
Explore programs related to this career offered at post-secondary institutions in B.C.