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Pipefitter General Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Pipefitter General information

What is a pipefitter general?

A pipefitter general is a skilled tradesperson who assembles, installs, maintains, and repairs piping systems in commercial, industrial, and sometimes residential settings. They work with various materials such as steel, copper, and plastic, ensuring that piping systems for water, steam, chemicals, and gases function safely and efficiently. Pipefitter generals often read blueprints, use specialized tools, and follow safety standards to complete projects. Their expertise is crucial in construction, manufacturing, and energy industries, where precise piping systems are required.

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

To thrive as a Pipefitter General, you need a solid understanding of piping systems, blueprint reading, and safety standards, typically acquired through an apprenticeship or vocational training. Experience with pipe threading machines, welding equipment, and tools like pipe benders is essential, and certifications such as OSHA safety training are often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and strong teamwork abilities help set outstanding pipefitters apart. These skills are crucial to ensure accurate installation, system integrity, and safety in industrial or construction environments.

What are some common challenges a pipefitter general might face on the job, and how can they be addressed?

Pipefitter Generals often encounter challenges such as working in confined spaces, coordinating with other trades, and adapting to changing project requirements. Effective communication with team members and supervisors is essential to ensure safety and avoid conflicts over workspace or timelines. Staying current with safety regulations and using proper tools can help mitigate risks. Additionally, flexibility and problem-solving skills are valuable for addressing unexpected issues like material shortages or design changes.

What is the difference between Pipefitter General vs Pipefitter Apprentice?

AspectPipefitter GeneralPipefitter Apprentice
CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, relevant certifications, and work experienceTypically in training, with on-the-job learning and basic certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial, commercial, or construction sites involving pipe installation and maintenanceTraining sites or entry-level job sites under supervision
Job ResponsibilitiesInstalling, repairing, and maintaining piping systems; reading blueprintsAssisting experienced pipefitters; learning installation techniques

In summary, a Pipefitter General is a skilled professional responsible for installing and maintaining piping systems, while a Pipefitter Apprentice is in training, gaining experience under supervision to develop the necessary skills for full responsibilities.

Pipefitter/Steamfitter

Kalamazoo, MI • On-site

Western Michigan University
Education • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Western Michigan Universityexternal

$40.45/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 26 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

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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