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Pipe Apprentice Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Heavy Equipment Operator

Clayton, NC ยท On-site

$21 - $35/hr

Apprenticeship and Lead/Foreman Development Programs * Well-maintained modern equipment. * Heavy ... Support trenching, pipe installation, backfilling, and compaction operations * Read and follow ...

Heavy Equipment Operator

Raleigh, NC ยท On-site

$21 - $35/hr

Apprenticeship and Lead/Foreman Development Programs * Well-maintained modern equipment. * Heavy ... Support trenching, pipe installation, backfilling, and compaction operations * Read and follow ...

Heavy Equipment Operator

Raleigh, NC ยท On-site

$21 - $35/hr

Apprenticeship and Lead/Foreman Development Programs * Well-maintained modern equipment. * Heavy ... Support trenching, pipe installation, backfilling, and compaction operations * Read and follow ...

Heavy Equipment Operator

Durham, NC ยท On-site

$21 - $35/hr

Apprenticeship and Lead/Foreman Development Programs * Well-maintained modern equipment. * Heavy ... Support trenching, pipe installation, backfilling, and compaction operations * Read and follow ...

Heavy Equipment Operator

Raleigh, NC ยท On-site

$21 - $35/hr

Apprenticeship and Lead/Foreman Development Programs * Well-maintained modern equipment. * Heavy ... Support trenching, pipe installation, backfilling, and compaction operations * Read and follow ...

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Pipe Apprentice information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$10

$19

$30

How much do pipe apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for pipe apprentice in Raleigh, NC is $19.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $22.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Pipe Apprentices?

Pipe Apprentices are individuals who are learning the trade of installing, maintaining, and repairing piping systems under the supervision of experienced journeymen or master plumbers. They typically participate in a formal apprenticeship program that combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction. The apprenticeship can last several years and covers essential skills such as reading blueprints, understanding plumbing codes, and using various tools and materials. Upon completion, apprentices become qualified to work independently as journeyman pipefitters or plumbers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Pipe Apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Pipe Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of plumbing or pipefitting principles, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand and power tools, the ability to read blueprints, and OSHA safety certifications are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, willingness to learn, physical stamina, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills. These competencies are critical for ensuring safe, efficient work and successful progression toward becoming a qualified journeyman.

What is the difference between Pipe Apprentice vs Pipe Fitter?

AspectPipe ApprenticePipe Fitter
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, on-the-job training, sometimes apprenticeshipsHigh school diploma or GED, technical training, apprenticeship often preferred
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, industrial plants, plumbing installationsIndustrial, commercial, and residential plumbing systems, construction sites
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with pipe installation, learn safety and basic skillsInstall, assemble, and repair piping systems, read blueprints

While a Pipe Apprentice is in training and gaining foundational skills, a Pipe Fitter is a skilled tradesperson responsible for installing and maintaining piping systems. The apprentice role focuses on learning and assisting, whereas the fitter performs the actual installation and repairs.

What are some common challenges faced by pipe apprentices during their training period?

Pipe apprentices often encounter challenges such as adapting to physically demanding work, mastering precise measurement and cutting techniques, and learning to work safely with various tools and materials. Balancing classroom instruction with on-the-job training can also be demanding, especially when learning to interpret complex blueprints or codes. However, support from experienced journeymen and a collaborative team environment help apprentices develop the required skills and confidence over time.
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Pipe Apprentice jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Pipe Apprentice job openings:
Infographic showing various Pipe Apprentice job openings in Raleigh, NC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,692 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Sunrock Industries

Clayton, NC โ€ข On-site

$21 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Sunrock Industries is Currently Hiring Heavy Equipment Operators and Experienced Pipe Layers for our Asphalt/Paving Division
Durham, NC
What We Offer:
  • Highly competitive pay is based on skill and certifications, paid weekly
    • $21 - $35 per hour, based on experience
  • 2 weeks of PTO, Increases up to 4 weeks with service
  • 8 paid holidays start on day 1
  • Guaranteed 40 hours (Winter)
  • Up to $1000 sign on bonus for verified experience
  • Ability to earn extra cash with $1000 referral program
  • Full benefits package (medical, dental, vision, life)
  • Disability and other benefits that pay CASH directly to you
  • 401(k) with 4% company match
  • Safety Incentive Program
  • Apprenticeship and Lead/Foreman Development Programs
  • Well-maintained modern equipment.
  • Heavy Equipment Operator Key Responsibilities:
  • 3+ years of experience:
    • Operate heavy equipment including excavators, dozers, loaders, skid steers, backhoes, and compactors
    • Perform rough and intermediate grading for site development and utility work
    • Assist with finish grade and fine grade work under guidance
    • Support trenching, pipe installation, backfilling, and compaction operations
    • Read and follow grade stakes, cut/fill requirements, and project plans
    • Conduct daily pre-operation inspections and perform basic maintenance
    • Identify mechanical or safety issues and report promptly
    • Work collaboratively with foremen, operators, and crew members
    • Follow all OSHA, NCDOT, and company safety standards
  • 5+ years of experience:
    • Operate heavy equipment at an expert level: excavators, dozers, motor graders, loaders, skid steers, and trenching equipment
    • Perform precise finish grade and fine grade work for grading, utilities, and civil construction projects
    • Interpret grade stakes, GPS grade control, cut/fill requirements, and slope tolerances
    • Execute trenching, backfilling, pipe installation, and complex site preparation
    • Lead by example in production, quality, and safety
    • Perform advanced equipment checks, troubleshooting, and basic repairs
    • Mentor less experienced operators and assist foremen with on-site coordination
    • Maintain compliance with OSHA / NCDOT / company policies
  • Heavy Equipment Operator Minimum Qualifications:
  • 3+ years of experience OR 6,000+ hoursof heavy equipment operation
  • Experience supportinggrading and/or underground utility construction
  • Ability to read grade stakes and understand elevations and slopes
  • Demonstrated safe operation of multiple equipment types
  • Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions
  • High School Diploma or GED preferred
  • OR
  • 5+ years OR 10,000+ hoursof heavy equipment operation ingrading and/or utility construction
  • Proven ability to performfinish gradeandfine gradework accurately
  • Strong understanding of elevations, slopes, blueprints, and grade control
  • Ability to operate multiple types of equipment at a high skill level
  • High School Diploma or GED preferred
  • Valid North Carolina Driver's License required
About Sunrock Industries

Headquartered in Raleigh, NC, Sunrock Industries is a leading privately held construction materials supplier. As a vertically integrated company, we produce aggregates, hot mix asphalt, and ready-mixed concrete materials. We also provide a variety of contracting services to our customers.

From our beginning as a small sand and gravel business to our current status as one of North Carolina's premier aggregate suppliers, we have shown the utmost respect to our team, our clients, and the communities in which we operate. Maybe that's why, after 75 years, our reputation for quality, integrity, and service is as solid as ever.