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Pipe Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Operator - Poly Pipe

Odessa, TX · On-site

POLY PIPE OPERATOR Job Details Full Time / Part Time: Full Time FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt Business Unit: Poly and Containment Reports to: Operations Manager Travel Requirement: Yes Top Tier ...

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Operator - Poly Pipe

Carlsbad, NM · On-site

POLY PIPE OPERATOR Job Details Full Time / Part Time: Full Time FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt Business Unit: Poly and Containment Reports to: Operations Manager Travel Requirement: Yes Top Tier ...

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Operator - Poly Pipe

Odessa, TX · On-site

POLY PIPE OPERATOR Job Details Full Time / Part Time: Full Time FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt Business Unit: Poly and Containment Reports to: Operations Manager Travel Requirement: Yes Top Tier ...

McWane, Inc.

MPI Machine Operator I

Madison Heights, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Place pipe in machine, center the pipe, and tighten for work. After the pipe is in place, the operator will machine tapered threads into the pipe. During this process, the machine operator is ...

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Operator - Poly Water Transfer

El Reno, OK · On-site

POLY PIPE OPERATOR Job Details Full Time / Part Time: Full Time FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt Business Unit: Water Transfer Reports to: Operations Manager Travel Requirement: Yes Top Tier Benefits

McWane, Inc.

MPI Machine Operator I

Madison Heights, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Place pipe in machine, center the pipe, and tighten for work. After the pipe is in place, the operator will machine tapered threads into the pipe. During this process, the machine operator is ...

McWane, Inc.

MPI Machine Operator I

Wethersfield, CT · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

Place pipe in machine, center the pipe, and tighten for work. After the pipe is in place, the operator will machine tapered threads into the pipe. During this process, the machine operator is ...

McWane, Inc.

MPI Machine Operator I

Wethersfield, CT · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

Place pipe in machine, center the pipe, and tighten for work. After the pipe is in place, the operator will machine tapered threads into the pipe. During this process, the machine operator is ...

Charlotte Pipe and Foundry

Pipe Trainee

Maize, KS · On-site

$21.50 - $27.50/hr

Extrusion Operator is responsible for running extrusion machines, packing and moving pipe to storage location. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: include the following. Other duties may be ...

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All JobsPipe Operator Jobs

Pipe Operator information

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$17

$25

$36

How much do pipe operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for pipe operator in the United States is $25.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $32.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a pipe operator?

Pipe Operators are skilled workers responsible for controlling and monitoring the flow of materials, such as water, oil, gas, or chemicals, through pipelines in industrial or municipal systems. They operate valves, pumps, and other equipment to regulate pressure and flow, conduct inspections, and perform routine maintenance to ensure safe and efficient operations. Pipe Operators also document system performance and respond to emergencies or leaks to prevent environmental hazards. Their work is critical in industries like utilities, oil and gas, and water treatment.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a pipe operator?

To thrive as a Pipe Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with additional technical training being advantageous. Familiarity with pipe-laying equipment, hydraulic systems, and safety protocols is essential, and certifications such as OSHA or NCCER can be required. Problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help Pipe Operators excel on construction sites and during system installations or repairs. These skills and qualifications ensure pipe systems are installed safely and efficiently, minimizing risks and ensuring project success.

What are the most common challenges faced by pipe operators during installation and maintenance projects?

Pipe Operators often face challenges such as working in confined spaces, managing heavy equipment safely, and ensuring that pipes are correctly aligned and installed according to specifications. Environmental factors like weather and underground conditions can also complicate tasks. Effective communication with team members, attention to safety protocols, and adaptability are crucial for overcoming these challenges and maintaining project efficiency.

What is the difference between Pipe Operator vs Pump Operator?

AspectPipe OperatorPump Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety training, sometimes certificationsHigh school diploma, safety training, sometimes certifications
Work EnvironmentFactories, refineries, chemical plantsRefineries, water treatment plants, industrial sites
Industry UsageOil & gas, chemical manufacturingOil & gas, water management, industrial processing
Job FocusHandling pipes, ensuring flow, maintenanceOperating pumps, controlling flow, monitoring equipment

Both Pipe Operators and Pump Operators work in industrial environments like refineries and chemical plants, requiring safety training and similar certifications. While Pipe Operators focus on managing pipelines and ensuring proper flow through pipes, Pump Operators operate and monitor pumps to control fluid movement. Their roles are complementary but distinct, with each specializing in different aspects of fluid handling within the same industries.

How do I become a pipe operator?

To become a pipe operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant training or on-the-job experience. Certification or licensing may be required depending on the industry and location, and familiarity with safety protocols and equipment is essential.

What do pipe operators make?

Pipe operators typically earn an average salary ranging from $40,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and industry. They often require knowledge of safety protocols, equipment operation, and sometimes certifications such as OSHA training.
More about Pipe Operator jobs

What cities are hiring for Pipe Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Pipe Operator job openings:

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Pipe Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pipe Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 37% Full Time, 61% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,016 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

1st Shift Pipe Operator (MIG Weld)

Sterling, IL • On-site

Hughes Recruiting & Consulting
See more jobs at Hughes Recruiting & Consultingexternal

$21.42/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Pipe Operator – 1st Shift: Sterling, IL
Our customer in Sterling, Illinois, is seeking motivated individuals to join their growing team as a Pipe Operator on 1st Shift. The Pipe Operator is responsible for supporting the day-to-day functions by cutting, punching, or welding pipes.
 
Responsibilities of the Pipe Operator:
  • Set up and manually operate MIG welding equipment to weld radiator stiffener components.
  • Adjust welding parameters including voltage, amperage, gas flow, wire feed speed, and weld travel speed.
  • Operate oxygen/acetylene torch equipment as required for radiator welding operations.
  • Set up, run, and troubleshoot welding machines and related equipment.
  • Read and interpret simple blueprints, prints, and job traveler packets.
  • Measure components using metric tape measures to ensure dimensional accuracy.
  • Apply required hardware according to job travelers and engineering prints.
  • Inspect welds and finished components to ensure quality standards are met.
  • Support cross-training efforts and assist in other production areas as assigned.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and hazard-free work area in accordance with safety and 5S standards.
  • Follow all safety procedures and use required personal protective equipment (PPE).
 
Pipe Operator Requirements and Qualifications:
  • High School diploma or equivalent vocational school
  • Combination of technical school training or on the job MIG welding experience.
  • Multi-thickness welding experience. 
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings.
  • Good mechanical skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to lift and maneuver heavy materials and equipment.
  • Capable of working in various positions (standing, crouching, etc.) and in potentially hazardous environments.
  • Basic computer skills.
 
Pay for Pipe Operator: $21.42/hour.
 
Pipe Operator Benefits:
  • Health insurance.
  • Paid time off.
  • 401k with company match.
  • Paid weekly.
  • Direct deposit.
  • Paid training.
 
Type: 1st Shift, Full-time
 
Schedule: Monday – Friday from 6:00am – 2:30pm. 
 
Apply now!
Are you ready to move from the worries of today to your dreams of tomorrow? If so, give Hughes a call. We are the top-rated staffing, recruiting, and HR experts in the region. We are headquartered in Freeport, IL and have 11 locations across Illinois, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. Where we have offices, we have connections to the best local jobs! Walk in our doors and you’ll find friendly professional staff who dig deep, get results, and most importantly have fun! The reviews speak for themselves, at Hughes we quickly hook you up with companies that offer competitive pay rates, great culture & benefits, and a chance to elevate your life. We offer health insurance and 401(k) too to all our employees. To get the ball rolling, visit us online at www.hughesrecruiting.com and complete our application.  We’ll be in touch soon!