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Pipelayer Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Sunrock

Underground Utility Pipe Layer

Raleigh, NC

$16.75 - $22/hr

Underground Utilities Installer - Water, Sewer & Storm Drain Systems (Durham, NC Region) Location: Based in Durham, NC -- must live within approximately 60 miles (Raleigh, Butner, Roxboro, Oxford ...

Morgan Corp.

Pipe Layer

Raleigh, NC

$18.50 - $24.25/hr

Description We are currently searching for experienced Pipe Layers . Pipe Layers will responsible for assisting in the installation of underground water, sewer, and drainage pipeline. They will also ...

Sunrock

Underground Utility Pipe Layer

Kittrell, NC

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

Underground Utilities Installer - Water, Sewer & Storm Drain Systems (Durham, NC Region) Location: Based in Durham, NC -- must live within approximately 60 miles (Raleigh, Butner, Roxboro, Oxford ...

Sunrock

Underground Utility Pipe Layer

Butner, NC

$14.50 - $19/hr

Underground Utilities Installer - Water, Sewer & Storm Drain Systems (Durham, NC Region) Location: Based in Durham, NC -- must live within approximately 60 miles (Raleigh, Butner, Roxboro, Oxford ...

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Pipelayer information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$13

$21

$30

How much do pipelayer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for pipelayer in Raleigh, NC is $21.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.74 and $23.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a pipelayer do?

A pipelayer is responsible for installing underground pipelines for utilities such as water, gas, or sewage. They read blueprints, operate heavy machinery, and ensure proper placement and safety standards during construction projects. Pipelayers often work outdoors in various weather conditions and may need certifications for equipment operation and safety protocols.

What is the difference between Pipelayer vs Pipefitter?

AspectPipelayerPipefitter
CertificationsOSHA safety training, possibly state-specific licensesOSHA safety training, pipefitting certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, underground or aboveground pipe installationIndustrial plants, HVAC systems, plumbing installations
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction companies, utility providersManufacturing, industrial, and commercial facilities

Both Pipelayers and Pipefitters work with piping systems, but Pipelayers primarily focus on laying pipes in construction projects, while Pipefitters install and maintain piping in industrial settings. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What Is a Pipelayer?

A pipelayer uses specialized equipment to assemble and connect pipes. As a pipelayer, your job duties include using ditch digging equipment to create pipe systems for water utilities, sewers, storm drainage, or other types of infrastructure. To become a pipelayer, you can complete a program at a vocational school or acquire an apprenticeship with a professional pipelayer, though many employers provide on-the-job-training. Because this job involves vital infrastructure, training can last for several years.

Is being a pipelayer hard?

Pipelayer is a physically demanding job that requires strength, attention to detail, and knowledge of safety procedures. It involves working outdoors in various weather conditions and handling heavy materials and tools, often requiring certification or training. The job can be challenging but is manageable with proper skills and experience.

What are pipelayers?

Pipelayers are skilled construction workers who install and maintain underground pipes for utilities such as water, sewage, drainage, and gas systems. They prepare trenches, align and position pipes, and connect joints using various tools and methods. Pipelayers also inspect pipes for leaks, backfill trenches, and ensure that installations meet safety and regulatory standards. Their work is essential for municipal infrastructure and large-scale construction projects.

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

To thrive as a Pipelayer, you need strong knowledge of pipe installation, trench safety, and construction site practices, often obtained through on-the-job training or vocational programs. Familiarity with construction equipment, laser levels, trench shields, and safety certifications such as OSHA 10 are typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills for ensuring project accuracy and safety. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining safe, efficient, and high-quality pipeline installations in various infrastructure projects.

What are some common challenges faced by pipelayers on construction sites?

Pipelayers often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, dealing with unexpected underground obstacles, and ensuring precise alignment of pipes to avoid costly errors. Coordinating with site supervisors, equipment operators, and other trades is essential to keep projects on schedule and to maintain safety standards. Adaptability and strong communication skills help pipelayers overcome these challenges and contribute to successful project completion.

What do you need to become a pipelayer?

To become a pipelayer, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, physical strength and stamina, and experience with construction tools and equipment. Some employers require completion of an apprenticeship program or on-the-job training, and safety certifications such as OSHA may be necessary. Knowledge of blueprint reading and excavation techniques is also beneficial.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

A pipelayer can potentially earn around $4,000 a week with experience and union membership, especially on large construction projects. High-paying skilled trades like pipefitting, welding, or heavy equipment operation may also reach this level without a college degree, often requiring certifications and physical stamina. These roles typically involve working in construction, industrial, or infrastructure environments with demanding schedules.
More about Pipelayer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Pipelayer jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Pipelayer jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Pipelayer jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Pipelayer jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Pipelayer jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Pipelayer job openings:
Pipelayer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pipelayer job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,982 per year, or $21.1 per hour.
Underground Utility Pipe Layer

Underground Utility Pipe Layer

Sunrock

Raleigh, NC

$16.75 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Underground Utilities Installer – Water, Sewer & Storm Drain Systems (Durham, NC Region)

Location:
Based in Durham, NC — must live within approximately 60 miles (Raleigh, Butner, Roxboro, Oxford, Chapel Hill, Mebane, Henderson, or surrounding areas).

About Sunrock Industries

Sunrock Industries is a vertically integrated construction materials and contracting company with 75+ years of experience in North Carolina. We take pride in building communities from the ground up — from the rock quarry to the road surface. Our Contracting Division specializes in heavy civil, grading, utilities, and site development projects across the Triangle region.

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced Pipe Layer to install ductile iron, RCP, storm drain, water, and sanitary sewer lines for heavy civil construction projects. The ideal candidate has 1–2+ years of experience working on utility or site development crews and understands how to safely and efficiently install pipe to line and grade.

Responsibilities

  • Install water, sewer, and storm drainage systems (ductile iron, RCP, PVC, HDPE).

  • Set up and align pipe to proper grade using lasers or hand levels.

  • Work alongside excavator, backhoe, and dozer operators during trenching and backfill operations.

  • Assist with grading, trench preparation, and bedding installation.

  • Ensure safety protocols and trench protection requirements are followed at all times.

  • Operate or assist with heavy equipment as needed (dozer, backhoe, excavator).

  • Maintain tools, materials, and jobsite cleanliness.

  • Communicate effectively with crew leaders, equipment operators, and foremen.

Qualifications

  • 1–2 years of experience installing underground utilities or related pipe systems.

  • Experience working around heavy equipment (excavators, dozers, backhoes).

  • Knowledge of ductile iron and RCP pipe installation techniques preferred.

  • Ability to read grade stakes, follow line and grade, and use pipe lasers.

  • Must have reliable transportation and be able to commute within 60 miles of Durham, NC.

  • Physically able to work outdoors year-round and lift up to 75 lbs.

  • Commitment to safety, teamwork, and quality workmanship.

What We Offer

  • Highly competitive pay is based on skill and certifications, paid weekly
  • 2 weeks of PTO, Increases up to 4 weeks with service
  • Heavy Equipment Apprenticeship Program
  • 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

Apply today and join a company where your work makes a visible impact in the community.

Job Locations: Employees are expected to have their own transportation to the jobsite and be there by starting time. Start time may be adjusted due to seasons, job type, or schedule. Typically, this is 7 AM. Sunrock hires and places new hires based off open positions needed on our crews. Sunrock cannot guarantee that employees will work close to where they live. Nor can we make changes to our crews to accommodate such requests.

Guaranteed Time: You must be employed for 90 days to be eligible for assured time. Between March 15th and December 15th, employees are assured 24 hours. Employees must be willing and prepared to work to qualify for assured time. Between December 15th and March 15th, employees are assured 40 hours. Again, employees must be willing and prepared to work to qualify for assured time.

Sunrock is an Equal Opportunity Employer and makes all employment decisions without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, religion, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, citizen status, or any other legally protected status under local, state, or federal law.

Sunrock Industries is not accepting unsolicited resumes from third-party recruiting firms. If you are an agency or search firm representative, please contact Sunrock Industries Talent Acquisition at HRteam@thesunrockgroup.com for consideration prior to submitting candidates. Sunrock Industries and its affiliates will not be responsible for any fees arising from the use of resumes and online response forms submitted through this source. In addition, Sunrock Industries and its affiliates will not be responsible for any fees associated with unsolicited resumes submitted to any employee, hiring manager, or member of the Sunrock Industries team. Sunrock Industries maintains an approved vendor list for recruiting services and will only consider candidate submissions from approved firms when Sunrock has specifically engaged the firm to assist with a search for designated roles. Unsolicited resumes or candidate submissions from firms not engaged by Sunrock do not create any obligation on the part of Sunrock Industries to pay placement fees.

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