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Pipefitter Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Austal USA

A Class Pipe Welder - SDCA

San Diego, CA · On-site

$27.50 - $34/hr

To work within a team of Pipe Fitters and welders to achieve maximum production in minimum time ... Contribute towards innovation / productivity improvements. * Assist in the control of waste ...

Essel

Skilled Labor

Corona, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Operate metal-cutting equipment, including grinders, saws, pipe cutters, and other power tools. * Assist pipefitters and plumbers with assembling, aligning, fitting, and securing piping systems.

Essel

Skilled Labor

Corona, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Operate metal-cutting equipment, including grinders, saws, pipe cutters, and other power tools. * Assist pipefitters and plumbers with assembling, aligning, fitting, and securing piping systems.

Essel

Skilled Labor

Corona, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Operate metal-cutting equipment, including grinders, saws, pipe cutters, and other power tools. * Assist pipefitters and plumbers with assembling, aligning, fitting, and securing piping systems.

Westlake

$23.07/hr

About Westlake Westlake Pipe & Fittings, a Westlake division (NYSE:WLK), is one of the largest ... Keep accurate records and reports. Assist in physical inventories and cycle counts * Ensure proper ...

Westlake

Operator

Lodi, CA · On-site

$23.87 - $30.62/hr

Westlake Pipe & Fittings supplies gasketed, solvent weld and restrained joint pipes and a wide ... An A level operator perform all duties required of Production "C" and "B" operators. * Assist in ...

Clean Harbors

Facility Maintenance Repair I

San Jose, CA · On-site

$14.16 - $35/hr

Perform repairs and upkeep involving electrical systems, pipe fitting, plumbing, HVAC systems ... * Assist higher-level maintenance personnel with larger and more complex maintenance projects.

Star Staffing

Maintenance Mechanic

Stockton, CA · On-site

$34 - $40/hr

Conduct pipe fitting, torch cutting, and layout work on various materials. * Support preventive ... Collaborate with engineering, production, and quality teams to resolve equipment issues. * Assist ...

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Pipefitter Assistant information

See California salary details

$10

$19

$24

How much do pipefitter assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for pipefitter assistant in California is $19.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $21.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a pipefitter assistant?

Pipefitter Assistants support pipefitters by helping to install, assemble, and maintain piping systems in residential, commercial, or industrial settings. Their duties often include measuring and cutting pipes, holding materials in place, and preparing tools and work areas. They also assist with cleaning up job sites and ensuring that safety protocols are followed. Pipefitter Assistants work under the supervision of experienced pipefitters and may eventually advance to more skilled positions with experience and training.

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

To thrive as a Pipefitter Assistant, you need basic mechanical aptitude, familiarity with hand and power tools, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Knowledge of safety protocols and experience with pipe threading machines, cutting tools, and measurement systems are valuable assets. Strong attention to detail, reliability, and the ability to follow instructions help you stand out in this role. These skills ensure safe, accurate support of pipefitting operations and efficient teamwork on construction or industrial sites.

What are some common challenges pipefitter assistants face on the job, and how can they overcome them?

Pipefitter Assistants often encounter challenges such as working in confined or elevated spaces, handling heavy materials, and adapting to varying weather conditions on job sites. To overcome these, it's important to follow all safety protocols, use proper lifting techniques, and communicate regularly with the lead pipefitter and team members. Staying organized and asking questions when unsure can also help assistants learn faster and reduce mistakes, making the work environment safer and more efficient.

What is the difference between Pipefitter Assistant vs Pipefitter?

AspectPipefitter AssistantPipefitter
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; apprenticeship or technical training required
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, industrial facilitiesConstruction sites, industrial plants, maintenance facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with pipe installation, prepare materials, support pipefittersDesign, install, maintain piping systems, interpret blueprints

The main difference between a Pipefitter Assistant and a Pipefitter is the level of responsibility and skill. Pipefitter Assistants support pipefitters by performing basic tasks and preparing materials, while Pipefitters handle the installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of piping systems. Both roles are essential in industrial and construction settings, but Pipefitters require more advanced training and experience.

How to become a pipefitter assistant?

To become a pipefitter assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may undergo on-the-job training or apprenticeships. Basic skills in math, reading blueprints, and familiarity with hand tools are helpful, and some employers prefer candidates with prior experience or technical training in plumbing or pipefitting. Certification is not always required but can improve job prospects and advancement opportunities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Pipefitter jobs in California?

The most popular types of Pipefitter jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Pipefitter Assistant jobs?

Cities in California with the most Pipefitter Assistant job openings:

Pipefitter Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pipefitter Assistant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,391 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

A Class Pipe Welder - SDCA

Austal USA

San Diego, CA • On-site

$27.50 - $34/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Austal USA rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

293rd of 495 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

REPORTS TO: Production Supervision
Overall purpose of job: To work within a team of Pipe Fitters and welders to achieve maximum production in minimum time, standards and quality in keeping with company policies, while maintaining a positive and motivated team environment.
SUMMARY
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The qualifications listed below are representative of the minimum knowledge, skill, and/or ability desired.
The individual must have working knowledge of procedures, strong mechanical aptitude and the ability to follow directions. The individual must possess experience in the trade and knowledge of ship terminology. The individual must demonstrate ability to interpret job specifications and perform work on marine vessels.
Must be able to follow directions and work with limited supervision. Also, must be willing to develop other team members' skill level.
ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS, DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include but are not limited to the following:
  • Read and interpret basic drawings and weld symbols.
  • Pass weld test for all Austal USA weld procedures in the 6GR position
  • Pass Austal USA TIG weld test procedure for aluminum pipe
  • Must be able to perform P1 welds and maintain associated documentation
  • Ability to work to Austal Tig Welding standards
  • Work to Austal housekeeping procedure
  • Inspection of work, identification of potential problems, initiation of corrective actions.
  • Increase awareness of Quality procedures within department
  • Perform as a productive working team member that meets daily goals set by the supervisor.
  • Continuously improve communications and flexibility within the team.
  • Help build the team environment.
  • Build pride of workmanship and quality through on job training.
  • Contribute towards innovation / productivity improvements.
  • Assist in the control of waste elimination, e.g. materials, consumables etc.
  • Assist supervisor to maintain control of department equipment and its maintenance.
  • Must have full set of personal tools
  • Work towards the team goal of delivering the vessel on time.
  • Always be ready to start shift on time
  • Follow Austal guidelines and procedures
  • Do not leave job early or return late from break times
  • Ensure work area is left clean, all equipment and tools are stowed away safely and protected against damage
  • Performs and executes work in compliance with NAVSEA STD Items
  • Must be able to travel to off-site work locations
  • Must follow Austal Off-Site Temporary Assignment Policy (SUP270)

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
  • 1 year minimum work experience as a B-class pipe welder at Austal or 2 years experience in similar role at comparative employer.
  • Ability to pass "A Class" skills validation test to demonstrate welding ability for restricted open root welds
  • Ability to successfully complete onboarding procedures in preparation to pass 6GR weld qualification test requirements for copper nickel and stainless steel to meet contract requirements for A Class welding on the vessel

LANGUAGE SKILLS
  • Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos.
  • Ability to write simple correspondence.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS
  • Ability to add, subtract, multiply, divide, and measure using the metric system.

REASONING ABILITY
  • Ability to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form.
  • Ability to deal with problems that may arise in certain situations.

LIASES WITH
  • Supervisors
  • Foremen
  • Production Manager
  • PDSS Leadership

ADDITIONAL GUIDELINES:
  • Candidates must meet the following employment eligibility guidelines to be considered for employment with Austal USA:
  • 18 years of age or older at time of application
  • Able to provide proof of US Person Status
  • No felony convictions of Theft/Deception or Violent crimes within seven years from disposition date
  • No felony convictions of Drug crimes within three years from disposition date
  • Willing to submit to a drug screen
  • Willing to submit to a background check

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Must be able to tour all vessels and work sites.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, use hands to manipulate, handle, or feel, reach with hands and arms, climb and balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl, and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to sit.
Specific physical requirements include but are not limited to the following:
  • Must have the ability to bend, squat, stoop, crawl, and kneel.
  • Perform prolonged standing.
  • Ability to turn head from side to side and about the vertical axis.
  • Lift/push/pull 50lbs on an occasional basis.
  • Lift/push/pull up to 20lbs on a frequent basis.
  • Must have the ability to climb in a safe manner (climbing as a minimum includes stairs, scaffolding, ladders, and ramps).
  • Ability to work at heights above 12' while working from ladders, scaffolding and/or man lifts.
  • Able to work at a variety of levels (ex. waist, eye, overhead).
  • Demonstrate the ability to safely and appropriately use required tools and equipment.
  • Demonstrate good balance while working on uneven surfaces and maneuvering obstacles.
  • Possess sufficient handgrip and coordination to carry and operate tools and equipment.
  • Ability to utilize personal protective equipment (hard hat, safety glasses, steel-toes shoes, goggles, respirator, safety harness, safety line, flotation gear, etc.) safely per OSHA standards.
  • Ability to withstand cold and hot temperatures.
  • Ability to enter 18" x 36" openings and work in confined spaces for prolonged periods of time within OSHA guidelines.
  • Able to respond to verbal and audible sounds/commands.
  • Able to utilize adequate visual skills.
  • Ability to fully extend the arm while reaching overhead, reaching out, reaching to the side and reaching down.
  • Ability to perceive attributes of an object/material such as size, shape, temperature and texture by means of receptors in the hands and fingers.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters whole performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to humid conditions, moving mechanical parts, high precarious places, outside weather conditions, and extreme heat. The employee is occasionally exposed to fumes and/or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, and heat and cold. The noise level in the work environment is usually very loud. PPE available and MUST be used correctly.
SAFETY
Must comply with company, federal, state, and local safety and environmental rules and regulations while performing daily job tasks.
COMPENSATION
Pay Rate: $42.75 per hour
Equal Employment Commitment
Any qualified individual with a disability who is having difficulty in completing an application because of incompatible technology or other disability-related application issues may contact us at the following phone number for assistance: 251-445-1932.
Austal's commitment to equal employment opportunity applies at all levels of employment, in all job titles, including the executive level, and to all employment actions, including but not limited to decisions concerning recruitment, hiring, training, and promotion.

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