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Journeyman Pipefitter Jobs in Three Rivers, MI (NOW HIRING)

Dan Wood Company

Plumbing Technician

Portage, MI · On-site

Journeyman License is a plus - but not required. * Heating, Pipe fitting and Boiler work a plus - but not required. BENEFITS WE OFFER: Tradesmen - Top wages, insurance, vacation time off, paid ...

Dan Wood Company

Plumbing Technician

Portage, MI · On-site

... Journeyman License is a plus - but not required. • Heating, Pipe fitting and Boiler work a plus - but not required. BENEFITS WE OFFER: Tradesmen - Top wages, insurance, vacation time off, paid ...

Dan Wood Company

HVAC Technician

Portage, MI

Journeyman License is a plus - but not required. * Plumbing, Pipe fitting and Boiler work is a plus - but not required. BENEFITS WE OFFER: Tradesmen - Top wages, insurance, vacation time off, paid ...

Dan Wood Company

HVAC Technician

Portage, MI · On-site

... Journeyman License is a plus - but not required. • Plumbing, Pipe fitting and Boiler work is a plus - but not required. BENEFITS WE OFFER: Tradesmen - Top wages, insurance, vacation time off, paid ...

All JobsJourneyman Pipefitter JobsJourneyman Pipefitter Jobs in Three Rivers, MI

Journeyman Pipefitter information

See Three Rivers, MI salary details

$17

$29

$54

How much do journeyman pipefitter jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for journeyman pipefitter in Three Rivers, MI is $29.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.51 and $32.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a journeyman pipefitter?

A journeyman pipefitter maintains and sets up pipe systems in industrial environments. Pipefitters and plumbers differ in the equipment they work with. A pipefitter works with high-pressure piping systems, while a plumber works with low-pressure systems, such as home piping. Pipefitting also requires more welding. As a pipefitter, you shape and bend pipe and install it to the system. You may need to operate grinders and welding torches to ensure a perfect fit. Pipefitters need to be able to read blueprints and be licensed to drive trucks large enough to transport pipes to the job sites. This career requires you to work in a variety of environments, ranging from hospitals to nuclear power plants.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a journeyman pipefitter?

To thrive as a Journeyman Pipefitter, you need a strong understanding of blueprint reading, pipe system installation, and welding, typically supported by completion of an apprenticeship and relevant licensure. Familiarity with tools such as pipe threaders, welding equipment, and safety management systems is crucial. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork help pipefitters excel on job sites and ensure project quality. These abilities are vital for maintaining safety standards, minimizing costly errors, and delivering reliable piping systems in industrial and commercial settings.

What are some common challenges a journeyman pipefitter might face on the job site?

Journeyman Pipefitters often work in environments where space is tight, temperatures can be extreme, and coordination with other trades is essential. Challenges may include interpreting complex blueprints, managing unexpected changes in project scope, and ensuring all installations meet safety and code requirements. Effective communication with supervisors, apprentices, and other tradespeople is crucial to keep projects on schedule. Staying updated on new materials, methods, and regulations also helps ensure quality work and career advancement.

What is the difference between Journeyman Pipefitter vs Pipefitter Apprentice?

AspectJourneyman PipefitterPipefitter Apprentice
CredentialsCompleted apprenticeship, licensed or certifiedIn training, no certification yet
Work EnvironmentPerforms installation, maintenance, and repair of piping systems independentlyAssists experienced workers, learns on the job
Industry UsageEmployed in commercial, industrial, and construction projectsEntry-level, gaining skills and experience

The main difference between a Journeyman Pipefitter and a Pipefitter Apprentice is experience and certification. A Journeyman Pipefitter has completed their apprenticeship and is qualified to work independently, while an Apprentice is still in training and gaining necessary skills. Both roles work in similar environments, but the Journeyman has more responsibility and expertise.

How much do journeyman pipefitters make a year?

Journeyman pipefitters typically earn an average annual salary ranging from $50,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. They often work in industrial, commercial, or construction settings and may require certifications or apprenticeships to qualify for higher wages.
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What cities near Three Rivers, MI are hiring for Journeyman Pipefitter jobs?

Cities near Three Rivers, MI with the most Journeyman Pipefitter job openings:

Journeyman Pipefitter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Journeyman Pipefitter job openings in Three Rivers, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,661 per year, or $29.6 per hour.

Pipefitter/Steamfitter

Western Michigan University

Kalamazoo, MI • On-site

$40.45/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 19 days ago

Western Michigan University rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

491st of 629 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position Details
Posting Summary
College
VP Business And Finance-DIV
Executive Area
VP Business And Finance
Department
FacilMgmt-Maintenance Service
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
S1614P
Job Type
Full Time, Regular
Pay Type
Nonexempt/Hourly
Pay Grade
ST4
Campus Location
WMU-Kalamazoo - Main Campus
Salary Range
$40.45 per hour plus generous benefits.
Number of Vacancies
1
General Summary
Provides highly skilled craft labor, working with tools to install, repair, replace and perform preventive maintenance for all elements of the University's heat and hot water distribution system.
Major Duties
  • Installs, repairs and maintains all piping and devices required for the delivery of steam and return of condensate for heating and domestic use, including air separators, expansion tanks, domestic hot water heaters, valves, strainers and traps.
  • Inspects and traces piping; cuts or breaks existing fittings and removes damaged and/or deteriorated segments of piping; threads new pipe under 4" in diameter to receive new fittings; and installs new fittings to reconnect replacement pipe under 4" in diameter or welds replacement piping over 4" in diameter to existing sound piping material.
  • Installs, repairs and replaces underground pipes, pipes located in vaults and steam tunnels, and pipes concealed in floors, walls and ceilings.
  • Bleeds hydronic heating systems to remove excess air and correct water flow.
  • Removes and replaces heat vent unit coils with the assistance of 2-3 other tradespeople.
  • Repairs heating elements and wall-mounted convectors and changes building relief valves.
  • Provides information required to update building and systems drawings to accurately reflect current status and, as assigned, may assist in the technical training of an apprentice.
  • Organizes assigned work so as to minimize materials and manhours required for proper completion of work, and instructs others in the operation of and preventive maintenance for all related tools and equipment.
  • This position performs additional duties as requested by supervisory personnel.

Minimum Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent from an accredited institution.
  • Ability to read and comprehend written instructions and safety regulations regarding the performance of job duties, and must have sufficient writing and mathematical skills to prepare estimates and supply requisitions.
  • Completion of a registered apprenticeship program, or an established, certified training program recognized by the University and/or written verification of a minimum of five (5) years experience at the journeyperson level in the pipefitter trade.
  • Possess documented welding experience in a commercial application.
  • Possession of a valid Michigan driver's license.
  • Ability to perform the essential functions of the job and use the tools of the trade.
  • Ability to complete a physical examination administered by the employer's designated physician.

Desired Qualifications
  • State of Michigan Plumbers license.

Special Instructions to Applicants
Bid Procedures:
All University employees represented by AFSCME Local 1668, and non-AFSCME regular and temporary University employees, who have the present ability or required qualifications to satisfactorily perform the required work, may exercise bidding privileges on this position.
  • Current AFSCME employees must complete the on-line WMU - AFSCME (bid) Sheet only.
  • Non-AFSCME University employees must submit an on-line WMU - Internal Application only.
  • Temporary University employees must submit an on-line WMU - Application only.

Additional Position Information
  • Effective 07/01/2026, the ST4 rate of pay is $41.46/hr.
  • Western Michigan University offers generous benefits to its employees including health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, retirement, and tuition discount for the employee and tuition remission for eligible dependents. To access information about the specific benefits available for this position, go to: https://wmich.edu/hr/enrollment-afscme
  • Above is a summary of the description for the position of Pipefitter/Steamfitter. A complete description for this position may be reviewed upon request in the department of Human Resources, Room 1300, Seibert Administration Building or online at: https://wmich.edu/hr/descriptions-afscme
  • This is a first (1st) shift position. The regular work hours for this position are 7:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. The regular work days are Monday through Friday, with Saturday and Sunday off.

Physical requirements and working conditions
  • When working in vaults, confined spaces and tunnels, the incumbent uses confined space air quality monitoring meters to monitor for the presence of toxic gases.
  • Must wear MIOSHA approved safety shoes at all times and must wear a hard hat, gloves and safety glasses as required by MIOSHA rules.
  • Must wear a respirator when working in vaults, tunnels and other confined spaces.
  • A face shield, leather vest and MIOSHA approved leather gloves are required when using welding equipment.
  • Must wear no loose-fitting clothing which might become entangled in equipment or machinery, posing a hazard to incumbent's safety.

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