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Pipefitter Helper Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

To work within a team of Pipe Fitters and welders to achieve maximum production in minimum time ... Help build the team environment. * Build pride of workmanship and quality through on job training.

To work within a team of Pipe Fitters and welders to achieve maximum production in minimum time ... Help build the team environment. * Build pride of workmanship and quality through on job training.

To work within a team of Pipe Fitters and welders to achieve maximum production in minimum time ... Help build the team environment. * Build pride of workmanship and quality through on job training.

To work within a team of Pipe Fitters and welders to achieve maximum production in minimum time ... Help build the team environment. * Build pride of workmanship and quality through on job training.

To work within a team of Pipe Fitters and welders to achieve maximum production in minimum time ... Help build the team environment. * Build pride of workmanship and quality through on job training.

To work within a team of Pipe Fitters and welders to achieve maximum production in minimum time ... Help build the team environment. * Build pride of workmanship and quality through on job training.

To work within a team of Pipe Fitters and welders to achieve maximum production in minimum time ... Help build the team environment. * Build pride of workmanship and quality through on job training.

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 ... Help build the team environment. * Build pride of workmanship and quality through on job training.

To work within a team of Pipe Fitters and welders to achieve maximum production in minimum time ... Help build the team environment. * Build pride of workmanship and quality through on job training.

To work within a team of Pipe Fitters and welders to achieve maximum production in minimum time ... Help build the team environment. * Build pride of workmanship and quality through on job training.

To work within a team of Pipe Fitters and welders to achieve maximum production in minimum time ... Help build the team environment. * Build pride of workmanship and quality through on job training.

To work within a team of Pipe Fitters and welders to achieve maximum production in minimum time ... Help build the team environment. * Build pride of workmanship and quality through on job training.

To work within a team of Pipe Fitters and welders to achieve maximum production in minimum time ... Help build the team environment. * Build pride of workmanship and quality through on job training.

To work within a team of Pipe Fitters and welders to achieve maximum production in minimum time ... Help build the team environment. * Build pride of workmanship and quality through on job training.

To work within a team of Pipe Fitters and welders to achieve maximum production in minimum time ... Help build the team environment. * Build pride of workmanship and quality through on job training.

To work within a team of Pipe Fitters and welders to achieve maximum production in minimum time ... Help build the team environment. * Build pride of workmanship and quality through on job training.

To work within a team of Pipe Fitters and welders to achieve maximum production in minimum time ... Help build the team environment. * Build pride of workmanship and quality through on job training.

To work within a team of Pipe Fitters and welders to achieve maximum production in minimum time ... Help build the team environment. * Build pride of workmanship and quality through on job training.

To work within a team of Pipe Fitters and welders to achieve maximum production in minimum time ... Help build the team environment. * Build pride of workmanship and quality through on job training.

Skilled Labor

Corona, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Read basic measurements, construction drawings, and pipe layouts. * Load, unload, organize, and transport piping, fittings, tools, and materials. * Help identify leaks, damaged piping, and ...

Showing results 41-60

Pipefitter Helper information

See California salary details

$10

$19

$24

How much do pipefitter helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for pipefitter helper 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 helper?

Pipefitter Helpers assist pipefitters by performing tasks such as measuring, cutting, and threading pipes, holding or moving materials, and cleaning work areas. They work on construction sites, factories, or in maintenance settings, supporting the installation and repair of piping systems. Their role is vital for ensuring that projects run smoothly and safely, often requiring physical stamina and attention to detail. Pipefitter Helpers may also be responsible for setting up tools, preparing materials, and assisting with the assembly or disassembly of pipe sections.

What does a pipefitter helper do?

A pipefitter helper works as an apprentice to become a plumber. You assist the plumber in fitting pipes onto pressurized systems. You may also work on installation projects for piping systems. These piping systems can be used for a number of substances like water, oil, and chemicals. You train to learn one of five separate plumbing disciplines. Your job duties include fitting, cutting, assembling, and repairing these systems. You must be knowledgeable about how the complete system works since they are highly pressurized and can reach very high temperatures.

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

To thrive as a Pipefitter Helper, you need basic mechanical aptitude, familiarity with hand and power tools, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Experience with pipe threading machines, pipe cutters, and reading blueprints is often required, along with safety certifications like OSHA 10. Reliability, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure safety, efficiency, and quality workmanship on construction or industrial job sites.

What are some common challenges pipefitter helpers face on the job, and how can they prepare for them?

Pipefitter Helpers often encounter challenges such as working in confined spaces, handling heavy materials, and adapting to changing work environments. To prepare, it's important to develop good physical stamina, learn safe lifting techniques, and become familiar with basic pipefitting tools. Additionally, strong communication skills are valuable, as helpers frequently collaborate with pipefitters and other trades on-site to ensure projects run smoothly. Proactively asking questions and seeking hands-on learning opportunities can help new helpers build confidence and competence in their role.

What is the difference between Pipefitter Helper vs Pipefitter?

AspectPipefitter HelperPipefitter
CredentialsBasic safety training, on-the-job trainingJourneyman certification, technical training
Work EnvironmentAssists with pipe installation, cleanup, and material handlingPerforms pipe fitting, assembly, and installation
Employer & IndustryConstruction, industrial plants, maintenanceConstruction, manufacturing, industrial facilities

The main difference is that a Pipefitter Helper assists experienced Pipefitters with basic tasks and support duties, often requiring less formal training. A Pipefitter is a skilled tradesperson responsible for precise pipe installation and assembly, usually holding a journeyman certification. Both roles work in similar environments, but the Pipefitter has more advanced responsibilities and qualifications.

Where do pipefitter helpers make the most money?

Pipefitter helpers tend to earn higher wages in regions with strong construction, industrial, or energy sectors, such as areas with active oil and gas, chemical plants, or large infrastructure projects. States or regions with higher living costs and union presence also typically offer higher pay for this role. Experience, certifications, and working in industrial environments can further increase earning potential.

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

The most popular types of Pipefitter jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Pipefitter Helper jobs in California?

For Pipefitter Helper jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Pipefitter Helper jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Pipefitter Helper jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Pipefitter Helper jobs?

Cities in California with the most Pipefitter Helper job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Pipefitter Helper jobs in CA?

For Pipefitter Helper jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Pipefitter Helper job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,391 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

A Class Pipe Welder - SDCA

Austal USA

Chula Vista, CA • On-site

$42.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Austal USA rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

296th of 499 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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