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Piping Design Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Piping Designer

Saint Louis, MO ยท Hybrid

$50 - $62/hr

Design P&IDs for piping, familiarizing with piping codes, specs, and design deliverables. * Create demo drawings, tie-ins, and isometrics using CAD and 3D modeling software. * Conduct equipment ...

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Piping Design information

See Missouri salary details

$22

$48

$68

How much do piping design jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for piping design in Missouri is $48.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39.66 and $57.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is piping design?

Piping design is the process of planning, creating, and documenting the layout of pipes and related components within industrial facilities, such as power plants, chemical plants, or oil refineries. It involves determining the most efficient and safe routes for piping systems to transport fluids and gases, while considering factors like pressure, temperature, flow rates, and material compatibility. Piping designers use specialized software and adhere to industry standards to ensure the systems are functional, safe, and cost-effective.

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

To thrive as a Piping Designer, you need strong knowledge of piping systems, engineering principles, and familiarity with industry codes, typically supported by a degree or diploma in mechanical engineering or a related field. Proficiency in CAD software (such as AutoCAD, PDMS, or SmartPlant), 3D modeling tools, and understanding of P&IDs is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication help ensure accurate designs and successful coordination with multidisciplinary teams. These skills are vital for creating safe, efficient, and cost-effective piping layouts that meet project specifications and regulatory standards.

What are some common challenges faced by piping designers when coordinating with other engineering disciplines on a project?

Piping designers often work closely with structural, mechanical, and electrical engineers, which requires careful coordination to avoid clashes and ensure efficient routing. One common challenge is managing spatial constraints in crowded plant environments, where multiple systems must fit within limited space. Effective communication, regular design reviews, and the use of advanced 3D modeling software help mitigate these issues and ensure that all engineering requirements are met without costly rework.

What is the difference between Piping Design vs Piping Drafting?

AspectPiping DesignPiping Drafting
Primary FocusCreating detailed piping layouts, specifications, and design conceptsPreparing detailed drawings and technical sketches based on design concepts
Required SkillsDesign principles, CAD software, engineering knowledgeDrafting skills, CAD proficiency, attention to detail
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, engineering firms, project sitesDrafting rooms, engineering offices
CertificationsEngineering degrees, piping design certificationsDrafting certifications, CAD training

While Piping Design involves creating the overall piping layouts and specifications, Piping Drafting focuses on producing detailed drawings based on those designs. Both roles require CAD skills, but Piping Design emphasizes engineering knowledge and conceptual planning, whereas Piping Drafting centers on technical drawing execution.

How do you become a piping design?

To become a piping designer, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by a technical degree or diploma in piping design, mechanical engineering, or a related field. Gaining experience with CAD software such as AutoCAD or MicroStation and understanding piping codes and standards are essential; certifications like the Certified Piping Designer (CPD) can also enhance job prospects.

Is piping design a good career?

Piping design is a specialized engineering field that involves creating detailed plans for piping systems used in industries such as oil and gas, chemical, and power plants. It offers opportunities for steady employment, technical skill development, and the use of CAD software, with a demand for qualified professionals in large industrial projects. Career growth often depends on experience, certifications, and industry demand.

What does a piping design do?

A piping designer creates detailed plans and specifications for the layout, routing, and construction of piping systems used in industrial, commercial, or infrastructure projects. They use CAD software and industry standards to ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance with codes. Their work supports the proper flow of fluids such as water, gas, or chemicals within facilities.
Infographic showing various Piping Design job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,722 per year, or $48.4 per hour.

Piping Designer, Senior

Saint Louis, MO โ€ข On-site

Vestal Corporation
Architectural Servicesย โ€ขย 51 - 200 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

JOB SUMMARY:

The Senior Piping Designer is responsible for leading the mechanical piping scopes of work.

JOB DUTIES:

  • Prepare mechanical piping scopes of work for select projects.
  • Assist with the preparation of piping deliverables and man-hour budgets for select engineering proposals and changes to active projects.
  • Lead piping layout and general arrangement for assigned project areas or systems.
  • When assigned, serve as Piping Lead for projects, coordinating piping design activities and supporting project engineering staff.
  • Execute and oversee piping design using AutoCAD Plant 3D and, when required, Revit.
  • Track piping design progress and productivity for assigned work and communicate status to project management.
  • Perform field observations and document existing conditions on select projects.
  • Coordinate directly with owners, operators, and design-build contractors to gather functional and program requirements and develop simple and elegant piping layouts that support operations, maintenance, and constructability.
  • Apply applicable piping codes, standards, and project specifications (e.g., ASME B31.3, hygienic piping practices, client standards) to piping layouts and deliverables.
  • Develop piping layouts that consider cleanability, CIP/SIP requirements, maintenance access, thermal growth, and installation sequencing.
  • Coordinate piping design with mechanical equipment including boilers, ammonia refrigeration systems, cooling towers, pump, and packaged process equipment.
  • Support coordination with all other disciplines to resolve design interfaces and layout conflicts.
  • Develop conceptual pipe support strategies and coordinate support requirements with structural engineering.
  • Review piping models, drawings, and isometrics prepared by other designers for quality, constructability, and compliance with project standards.
  • Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior piping design staff.
  • Support responses to construction RFIs and review field change requests related to piping design.
  • Lead the development and maintenance of corporate piping drafting standards, templates, and best practices.
  • Provide proactive coordination with other disciplines to support integrated project delivery.
  • Comply with Company's Quality Control and Project Management procedures.
  • Promote a positive and professional working environment.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.


WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Work is performed in a Vestal Corporation office.


PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and being able to operate a computer and other office equipment.
  • Must be able to move about the office to access office equipment and other office buildings within the Vestal office complex.
  • This position frequently communicates with others and must be able to exchange accurate information.


KNOWLEDGE / SKILL / ABILITY / EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE:

  • Associates degree is preferred.
  • Minium of 10 years of mechanical piping design is required.
  • Experience with, and understanding of, Engineering, Architecture, and Construction terminology is required.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong computer skills (e.g. Microsoft Office Suite, Revit, AutoCAD).
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Proven ability to read and understand both 2D and 3D drawings is preferred.
  • Strong attention to detail, facilitation, team building, collaboration, organization, and problem-solving skills.
  • Requires effective time management skills, personal conduct, and change management abilities.
  • Ability to effectively interact with co-workers, clients, vendors, and other business contacts.
  • Must comply with Vestal Corporations' core values for the safe and efficient operation of the business and maintaining sound relationships among and with employees.


Tools of Sr. Industrial Mechanical Designer:

  • Plant 3D
  • Revit
  • NavisWorks
  • Bluebeam
  • MS Office suite of products
  • WINEST
  • Various other Mechanical Design applications