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Pipelayer

💰 Earn $56K-$99K
📚 No Degree Required
⏱️ 6–12 Month Training
📈 -4.1% Job Growth
  • Ideal for those who enjoy hands-on work and building essential infrastructure.
  • Ensure communities have reliable water and sanitation systems through skilled pipework.
  • Use advanced tools like lasers and welding to connect and secure vital pipelines.
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Pipelayer
What Pipelayers DoLay 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.
  • 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.
Pipelayers Education, Salary, and Growth
Minimum EducationNone
Career ProspectsShaky (Decreasing by 1-5%)
Training Time6 months to 1 year
Job Openings2,400 Annually
Median Earnings
$78,090 in California
$48,710 Nationally

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Only you can decide how much you need to earn — but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.
Is This Career Right For You?
YOU Like
  • Working with my hands
you value
  • Having support
  • Having freedom
  • Personal relationships
you are skilled in
  • Speaking
  • Critical Thinking
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Active Listening
  • Writing
  • Judgment and Decision Making
Go Deeper: Pipelayers Explained
Pipelayer
PipelayerExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.
How Do You Train for This Career?

Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.

Associate's Degree
Associate's DegreeAn associate's degree typically provides graduates with foundational knowledge and skills for entry-level jobs in the graduate's industry, or serves as a stepping stone towards further education.
🎓 College
⏱️ Finish in 2-3 years
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Find local programs, apprenticeships, or degrees to start your path.

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What Is the Building & Distribution Industry?
Building & Distribution
Building & DistributionThe primary activities of this group involve constructing, installing, repairing, and maintaining physical infrastructure, producing goods and materials, and transporting people and products from one location to another.
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Updated April 2026. Data sourced from O*NET and Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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