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Also known as: Cast Iron Drain Pipe Layer, Drain Layer, Drain Tiler, Pipe Assembly Worker
You arrive at the municipal yard before dawn, pulling on your steel-toe boots and high-vis vest. The air is crisp, promising a clear but cool day. Inside the trailer, your crew chief, Mike, reviews the day’s plan: installing a new section of 18-inch PVC storm drain on Elm Street. Everyone grabs a coffee as Mike stresses safety, reminding you about trench shoring and spotting for the Komatsu excavator. You quickly inspect your hard hat and safety glasses, ready to head out.
Software and technologies flagged by O*NET as Hot or In-Demand for this role.
-3.1%
US average: +3.5%
2,100
per year (US)
33,200
in 2025 → 32,200 (2035)
No formal educational credential
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections; O*NET Bright Outlook.
How this work is typically performed, based on O*NET work context data.
Source: O*NET Work Context (v31.0)
The employment outlook for Pipelayers is projected to decline by about 3.1% through 2035, with approximately 2,100 job openings expected each year. The median annual wage for this role is around $49,000. Many Pipelayers begin as Construction Laborers and can advance into leadership roles like Construction Foreman or specialize as Heavy Equipment Operators.
Career ladder
Often before this role
Where it can lead
$49,000
Median annual wage, BLS 2025
Bachelor's Degree
Minimum educational requirement for this position
Based on job level & field
Construction Technology
Vocational • Tech & Engineering • 2 years
Construction Technology
Vocational • Tech & Engineering • 2 years
Installation Technology
Vocational • Tech & Engineering • 2 years
Electrician
Vocational • Tech & Engineering • 2 years
Architecture
Vocational • Design & Architecture • 4 years
Healthcare Assistance
Vocational • Healthcare & Life Sciences • 1 year