Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters

Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters play a vital role in the US economy, with 505K professionals employed nationwide. The median annual salary is $62,970, with projected growth of 4% through 2034 (As fast as average).

$62,970
Median Salary
4%
Growth Rate
20%
AI Risk
No Degree Required
Education

💰 Salary Range

$37,782$62,970 median$100,752

📈 Growth Outlook

moderate — 4% projected growth

🤖 AI Automation Risk

Very Low

This career is highly resistant to AI automation.

🔬 AI Impact Deep Dive: Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters

AI Collaboration Score

400% — Very High

Measures how much AI tools are used as collaborative assistants in this role (0% = no AI involvement, 100% = AI-intensive workflow)

🔮 Future Outlook

The core duties of this occupation are highly physical, requiring manual dexterity, strength, and real-time problem-solving in unpredictable physical environments like crawl spaces and construction sites. While AI may assist with peripheral tasks like cost estimation, blueprint analysis via BIM, and scheduling, it cannot perform the essential hands-on installation and repair work.

Analysis based on Microsoft "Working with AI" research (2025), O*NET task data v30.2, and Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational projections. Updated March 2026.

🌅 A Day in the Life

As a plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitter, your day involves a mix of specialized tasks that require both expertise and adaptability. You work with colleagues, clients, or patients depending on the setting, applying your training to solve real-world problems.

🌟 Why It's Promising

With 4% projected growth and a median salary of $62,970, this career offers steady prospects. The large employment base (0.5M jobs) means abundant opportunities across the country.

🚀 How to Get Started

Entry typically requires high school diploma or equivalent. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field.

🎯 Who Is It For

Anyone interested in plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters who wants to build a rewarding career in this field.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters make?

The median salary for a Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters is $62,970 per year. Salaries range from $37,782 to $100,752 depending on experience, location, and specialization.

What AP courses should I take to become a Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters?

Entry typically requires high school diploma or equivalent. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field.

Is Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters a good career in 2026?

With 4% projected growth and a median salary of $62,970, this career offers steady prospects. The large employment base (0.5M jobs) means abundant opportunities across the country.

Will AI replace Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitterss?

AI risk score: 20/100. This career is highly resistant to AI automation due to its need for human judgment, creativity, or physical presence.

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