Pipelayers
SOC Code: 47-2151Also known as:
Cast Iron Drain Pipe Layer, Drain Layer, Drain Tiler, Pipe Assembly Worker, Pipe Caulker
Median Annual Salary
$48,710
-4.1% growth (2024-2034)
2K
Openings/Year
34K
Current Jobs
What Pipelayers Do
Lay pipe for storm or sanitation sewers, drains, and water mains. Perform any combination of the following tasks: grade trenches or culverts, position pipe, or seal joints.
💰 Salary
$48,710
Median annual wage (2024)
📈 Job Growth
-4.1%
Decline
🎓 Education
No formal educational credential
Typical entry-level requirement
🚀 Annual Openings
2K
Projected average per year
📚 On-the-Job Training
Short-term on-the-job training
Expected training period
Employment Projections (2024-2034)
Current Employment (2024)
34,400
Projected Employment (2034)
32,900
Related Careers
Construction laborers
$46,730 •
+7.3% growth
Insulation workers, floor, ceiling, and wall
$48,680 •
+3.8% growth
Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters
$62,970 •
+4.5% growth
Helpers--pipelayers, plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters
$39,270 •
+4.9% growth
Septic tank servicers and sewer pipe cleaners
$49,140 •
+7.6% growth
Top Skills Required
Operation and Control
Active Listening
Speaking
Critical Thinking
Coordination
Daily Tasks & Responsibilities
- Grade or level trench bases, using tamping machines or hand tools.
- Dig trenches to desired or required depths, by hand or using trenching tools.
- Cut pipes to required lengths.
- Install or use instruments such as lasers, grade rods, or transit levels.
- Cover pipes with earth or other materials.
- Connect pipe pieces and seal joints, using welding equipment, cement, or glue.
- Install or repair sanitary or stormwater sewer structures or pipe systems.
- Check slopes for conformance to requirements, using levels or lasers.
- Align and position pipes to prepare them for welding or sealing.
- Lay out pipe routes, following written instructions or blueprints and coordinating layouts with supervisors.
Technology & Tools
📚 Entry-Level Education
No formal educational credential
Most common requirement
🎯 Recommended Education
Less than High School
O*NET recommended level
College Rankings
College rankings for this career path are being calculated. Check back soon!
Want this ranking as a spreadsheet? Investor Pro+ members can export any Repit table to CSV. See plans →
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do pipelayers make?
The median annual salary for pipelayers is $48,710.
What education do pipelayers need?
Most pipelayers positions require a no formal educational credential.
Is becoming pipelayers a good career choice?
Pipelayers is projected to see -4.1% job growth from 2024 to 2034,
which reflects some decline in the field. With approximately 2,400 job openings expected annually,
there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for pipelayers?
The best colleges offer strong programs in related fields with experienced faculty and industry connections.
What other job titles are similar to pipelayers?
Pipelayers may also be known as: Cast Iron Drain Pipe Layer, Drain Layer, Drain Tiler, Pipe Assembly Worker, Pipe Caulker, Pipe Connector, Pipe Cutter, Pipe Fitter, Pipe Installer, Pipe Layer, Pipe Liner, Pipe Setter, Pipe Wrapping Machine Operator, Pipelayer, Pipelaying Fitter, Pipeman, Piper, Sewer Connector, Sewer Layer, Sewer Pipe Layer.
These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.