How to Become a Pipe Layer

By eHow Careers & Work Editor

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Pipe layer is one of the highest paid construction occupations, and the job opportunities are abundant. Pipe layers install and maintain all kinds of pipes including sewer and gas lines. As a pipe layer you must be able to work outdoors, sometimes in remote areas. If a pipe layer sounds like an interesting job follow these steps to find out how you can become one. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Step1

Ensure that you are in excellent physical condition. Being a pipe layer means frequent heavy lifting and long hours on your feet. You may have to work in cramped enclosed places; if you're claustrophobic becoming a pipe layer may not be the appropriate career path.

Step2

Find an apprenticeship program in your area. Most pipe layers start out as an apprentice. The apprenticeship lasts between 4 and 5 years and usually includes classroom instruction as well as hands on learning.

Step3

Finish your education. You may be required to have a high school diploma or equivalency certificate before you can enter into an apprenticeship program.

Step4

Prepare yourself for periods of unemployment. As with any construction job, as a pipe layer you may not have consistent work, once you finish up one project there may be a period of time before you have another project to work on.

Step5

Rest assured, there will always be a need for a qualified pipe layer since piping systems will always need to be maintained.