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How Much Do Pipe Fabricator Make?

How much do pipe fabricator make? Discover the average salary, base salary, and compensation for pipe fabricator in the manufacturing & production category. Learn about pipe fabricator pay per hour, per week, per month, and per annum with detailed salary ranges from $45,000 to $65,000.

Base Salary (avg)
$65,000
Per Hour
$31/hr
Avg Bonus
$5,000
Job Outlook
10.12%
Experience
5 yrs

How Much Do Pipe Fabricator Make? Complete Salary Guide

How much do pipe fabricator make? This is one of the most common questions in career planning. Pipe Fabricator in the Manufacturing & Production field can expect to earn an average salary of $65,000 per year, with entry-level positions starting at $45,000 and experienced professionals earning up to $65,000 annually.

When breaking down the average salary of pipe fabricator by time periods, pipe fabricator typically make around $5,416.667 per month and approximately $1,250 per week. The basic salary of pipe fabricator varies significantly based on experience level, location, and industry specialization. Entry-level pipe fabricator typically start with a base salary of $45,000, while mid-career professionals earn an average of $60,000, and senior-level roles can command salaries exceeding $65,000.

The salary landscape for pipe fabricator is influenced by several key factors including geographic location, years of experience, educational background, and specific industry demands. How much do pipe fabricator make in a week? On average, this translates to approximately $1,250 per week. How much do pipe fabricator make per annum? The annual salary range spans from $40,000 to $80,000, with the median salary sitting at $65,000. Additionally, many pipe fabricator receive bonuses averaging $5,000 annually, representing approximately 10.25% of their base salary.

How Much Do Pipe Fabricator Get Paid Per Annum? Pipe Fabricator Salary

Annual salary data for pipe fabricator across different experience levels, showing entry-level, mid-career, and experienced professional compensation ranges based on industry standards.

Entry Level Annual Salary

$45,000
Range: $40,000 - $60,000

Mid-Career Annual Salary

$60,000
Range: $60,000 - $75,000

Experienced Annual Salary

$65,000
Range: $60,000 - $80,000

How Much Do Pipe Fabricator Get Paid in a Month? Pipe Fabricator Monthly Salary

Monthly salary breakdowns for pipe fabricator at different career stages, providing practical budgeting insights and compensation expectations for financial planning.

Entry Level Monthly Salary

$3,750
per month

Mid-Career Monthly Salary

$5,000
per month

Experienced Monthly Salary

$5,417
per month

How Much Do Pipe Fabricator Get Paid in Different Locations?

Geographic salary variations for pipe fabricator across different cities and regions, including cost of living adjustments and regional market demand factors that impact compensation.

Austin
$80,000
Range: $50,000 - $110,000
Remote
$75,000
Range: $50,000 - $100,000
Seattle
$85,000
Range: $55,000 - $115,000
New York
$90,000
Range: $60,000 - $120,000
San Francisco
$95,000
Range: $70,000 - $130,000

Pipe Fabricator Salary Trends

Historical salary progression for pipe fabricator over the past years, showing year-over-year compensation growth and market trends in the industry.

Pipe Fabricator Salary Trends (2020 - 2025)

Bonus & Compensation Package

Additional compensation beyond base salary, including bonuses, commissions, and overtime opportunities that contribute to total annual earnings.

Bonus Percentage

10.25%

of annual salary

Bonuses for Pipe Fabricators are typically awarded based on performance, project completion, safety records, and meeting production targets.

Average Bonus

$5,000

annually

Commission

A Pipe Fabricator role may offer commission or incentives based on production efficiency, quality metrics, or project completion, encouraging higher performance and productivity.

Overtime

Overtime pay is common for pipe fabricators, as they often work beyond standard hours to meet project deadlines and demand in the construction industry.

Employee Benefits Package

Comprehensive benefits and perks provided to employees, including health coverage, retirement plans, time off policies, and professional development opportunities.

Comprehensive Benefits

Typical benefits for a Pipe Fabricator include health insurance, retirement plans like 401(k), paid time off (PTO), overtime pay, life insurance, disability coverage, and opportunities for skill development and training.

Health Insurance
Paid Time Off
Retirement Plans
Development

Pipe Fabricator Job Overview

Comprehensive details about the pipe fabricator role including daily responsibilities, work environment, physical demands, and key tasks that define this career path.

About This Role

A Pipe Fabricator specializes in assembling, cutting, and welding pipes for various industries. They interpret blueprints, ensure precise measurements, and adhere to safety standards. Their expertise is crucial in constructing systems for oil, gas, and water distribution, contributing significantly to infrastructure development and maintenance while ensuring quality and efficiency.

Primary Responsibilities

Reading and interpreting blueprints, cutting and shaping pipes, welding and joining pipe sections, inspecting finished products for quality, assembling pipe systems, maintaining tools and equipment, following safety protocols, collaborating with engineers and project managers, documenting work processes, troubleshooting issues during fabrication.

Day-to-Day Tasks

A pipe fabricator typically measures, cuts, bends, and assembles pipes, inspects materials for quality, collaborates with engineers, follows safety protocols, and maintains tools while ensuring precise specifications are met.

Work Environment

Field

Pipe fabricators typically work in industrial settings, often outdoors or in warehouses, using tools and machinery to assemble piping systems.

Physical Demands

High

Pipe Fabricators often work in noisy environments, requiring physical strength to lift materials, precision for welding tasks, and safety gear due to exposure to hazardous conditions.

Pipe Fabricator Requirements & Prerequisites

Essential qualifications and credentials needed to pursue a career as a pipe fabricator, including educational background, certifications, and experience requirements.

Education

High School.

Field: Welding Technology, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Technology, Construction Management, Manufacturing Engineering, Pipefitting, Metal Fabrication, Skilled Trades.

Experience

5 years

Employers seek Pipe Fabricators with hands-on experience in welding, blueprint reading, and fabrication techniques, alongside strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work collaboratively in fast-paced environments.

Certifications

Certified Welding Inspector (CWI), Certified Pipe Fabricator, API 1104 Certification, ASME Section IX Certification, NCCER Certification, OSHA Safety Training, AWS D1.1 Certification, NACE Coating Inspector Certification.

Required Skills

Welding, blueprint reading, pipe fitting, measurement and layout, problem-solving, attention to detail, teamwork, safety awareness.

Technical Skills

Blueprint ReadingWeldingPipe FittingMaterial SelectionQuality ControlSafety StandardsMechanical SkillsProblem Solving

Soft Skills

CommunicationTeamworkProblem-SolvingAttention to DetailTime ManagementAdaptability

Pipe Fabricator Career Path

Professional progression opportunities for pipe fabricator from entry-level to senior management, including typical career advancement timeline and role evolution.

Entry Level

Positions:

Pipefitter Apprentice, Welder Apprentice, Mechanical Technician.

Early-career Pipe Fabricators assemble, install, and repair piping systems, ensuring precision and adherence to safety standards while collaborating with engineers and other tradespeople.

Mid-Career

Positions:

Pipe Fitter, Pipe Welder, Mechanical Technician

Mid-career Pipe Fabricators are responsible for interpreting blueprints, fabricating and assembling piping systems, ensuring quality control, troubleshooting issues, and collaborating with teams on project timelines.

Senior Management

Positions:

Pipe Fabrication Manager, Senior Pipe Designer, Operations Director

Senior pipe fabricators manage fabrication processes, oversee project timelines, ensure quality control, coordinate teams, and implement safety standards while optimizing efficiency and reducing costs.

Career Progression Timeline

Timeline: 5 years

A Pipe Fabricator typically starts as an apprentice, progressing to skilled fabricator and then to supervisory roles, with opportunities for specialization and project management. Continued education enhances advancement potential.

Pipe Fabricator Industry & Growth

Market outlook and growth prospects for pipe fabricator, including industry trends, job market demand, and factors influencing career opportunities and advancement.

Job Outlook

10.12% Growth

Faster than average

Projected: 2024–2034

Industry Trends

Increased automation and digitalization in manufacturing processes, growing emphasis on sustainable practices and materials, rising demand for skilled labor due to an aging workforce.

Growth Factors

Increased infrastructure projects, industrial growth, energy sector expansion, demand for customized solutions, and advancements in manufacturing technology are driving pipe fabricator demand.

Future Opportunities

3D printing, automation in manufacturing, green energy solutions, IoT integration for monitoring systems, and advanced materials like composites are creating new opportunities for pipe fabricators.

Pipe Fabricator Related Professions

Alternative career paths and similar roles for pipe fabricator, including career transitions, related positions, and advancement opportunities within the field.

Similar Roles

Pipe WelderPiping DesignerMechanical TechnicianIndustrial Engineer

Career Alternatives

Welding TechnicianManufacturing SupervisorQuality Control InspectorProject Estimator

Upgrade Paths

SupervisorProject ManagerOperations Manager

Related Entry Roles

ApprenticeWelderPipefitting Trainee

Pipe Fabricator Skills & Development

Essential skills and professional development resources for pipe fabricator, including technical abilities, soft skills, recommended courses, and ongoing learning opportunities.

Technical Skills

Blueprint ReadingWelding TechniquesPipe CuttingBending and FabricationQuality Control InspectionSafety Standards ComplianceMaterial SelectionEquipment Operation

Soft Skills Needed

CommunicationTeamworkProblem SolvingAttention to DetailTime Management

Recommended Certifications

Certified Pipe FabricatorWelding CertificationASME Certified

Recommended Courses

Pipe Fabrication and WeldingPiping Design and Fabrication

Development Resources

LinkedIn LearningCourseraAmerican Welding SocietyNational Center for Construction Education and Research

Training Timeline

6-12months

Estimated training time

Frequently Asked Questions About Pipe Fabricator Salary

Common questions and answers about pursuing a career as a pipe fabricator, covering qualifications, salary expectations, career prospects, and practical career guidance.

What qualifications are needed to become a pipe fabricator?

A high school diploma or GED, along with vocational training in welding or metal fabrication.

What skills are essential for a successful pipe fabricator?

Strong welding skills, blueprint reading, attention to detail, and knowledge of safety protocols.

What is the average salary of a pipe fabricator?

The average salary ranges from $40,000 to $60,000 per year depending on experience and location.

Is certification necessary for a pipe fabricator?

While not always required, certifications can enhance job prospects and demonstrate expertise.

What career advancement opportunities exist for pipe fabricators?

With experience, one can advance to supervisory roles or specialize in areas like pipeline inspection or project management.

How Much Others Make?

Explore salary data for other professions to compare compensation across different career paths and industries.

Important Disclaimer

Salary information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only. Actual salaries may vary based on location, experience, education, industry, company size, and other factors. We strive to provide accurate data, but cannot guarantee the completeness or accuracy of all information. Please verify with official sources before making career decisions.