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.
SOC: 47-2151.00
Common Job Titles
Pipelayer
Tailman
Waste Water Worker
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onOperate excavation and trenching equipment including backhoes, trenchers, and bulldozers on construction sites for storm and sanitation sewer installations.
Developing
Hands-onExecute pipe positioning and alignment procedures using laser levels and optical levels to ensure proper grade and slope.
Developing
Hands-onPerform joint sealing and connection techniques for water mains and sewer pipes following municipal codes and safety standards.
Developing
Hands-onManipulate heavy pipe sections using hydraulic cranes, hoists, and rigging equipment coordinating with crew members for safe material handling.
Developing
KnowledgeEvaluate trench stability and soil conditions to determine appropriate shoring and safety measures before pipe installation.
Developing
KnowledgeApply mathematical calculations for pipe grade, slope, and alignment using measurements and transit levels in underground utility installations.
Developing
KnowledgeInterpret construction blueprints and specifications for water and sewer systems to plan pipe layout and identify connection points.
Developing
KnowledgeAnalyze pipeline integrity using pressure testing and leak detection equipment to verify compliance with quality standards before system activation.
Developing
Hands-onOperate welding equipment including MIG and TIG welders to fabricate and repair metal pipe connections on-site.
Developing
MindsetParticipate in crew coordination and safety communication protocols while working in excavations and around heavy equipment.
Developing
KnowledgeTroubleshoot installation obstacles including underground utilities and unforeseen site conditions making on-site adjustments to maintain project progress.
Developing
Hands-onExecute trench backfilling and compaction operations using powered tampers and compaction equipment to restore site grade.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Pipelayers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
33,580
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $36,840. 25th percentile: U.S. $42,320. 50th percentile: U.S. $48,710. 75th percentile: U.S. $60,980. 90th percentile: U.S. $80,710. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$36,840
10% of workers earn the following or more
$80,710
Workers on average earn
$54,270
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Building and Construction4.2/5
Mechanical4.1/5
Mathematics3.7/5
Public Safety and Security3.5/5
Design3.2/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
