Pipelayers
Human Advantage 66%
Significant human skills needed
AI Automation Risk Moderate Risk
3.5 / 10
Some tasks in this role may be augmented by AI, but human oversight and interpersonal skills remain important.
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.
Also Known As: Cast-Iron Drain Pipe Layer, Drain Layer, Drain Tiler, Fitter, Irrigation System Installer, Irrigation Technician, Pipe Assembly Worker, Pipe Caulker +28 more
Video
Core Tasks
- Install or use instruments such as lasers, grade rods, or transit levels.
- Cut pipes to required lengths.
- Connect pipe pieces and seal joints, using welding equipment, cement, or glue.
- Cover pipes with earth or other materials.
- Install or repair sanitary or stormwater sewer structures or pipe systems.
- Align and position pipes to prepare them for welding or sealing.
- Check slopes for conformance to requirements, using levels or lasers.
- Lay out pipe routes, following written instructions or blueprints and coordinating layouts with supervisors.
- Operate mechanized equipment, such as pickup trucks, rollers, tandem dump trucks, front-end loaders, or backhoes.
- Grade or level trench bases, using tamping machines or hand tools.
- Dig trenches to desired or required depths, by hand or using trenching tools.
- Tap and drill holes into pipes to introduce auxiliary lines or devices.
- Locate existing pipes needing repair or replacement, using magnetic or radio indicators.
- Train or supervise others in laying pipe.
Education & Training
Job Zone 2 Job Zone Two: Some Preparation Needed
Education: These occupations usually require a high school diploma.
Experience: Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is usually needed. For example, a teller would benefit from experience working directly with the public.
On-the-Job Training: Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
Education Level Distribution
Percentage of workers in this occupation with each education level.
Technology & Tools
Hot Technologies
Software (4)
Tools & Equipment (88)
Where This Career Leads
Career progression organized by specialty track and experience level.
Skilled Trades Advanced Manufacturing
Zone 2
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