GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF CLASS

The PIPE AND STEAM FITTER lays out, fabricates, assembles, installs, and maintains piping and piping systems, fixtures and equipment for steam, hot water, heating, and cooling systems.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES

This is a single classification and not currently part of a series of classes.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Pipe System Construction. Typical tasks: reads blueprints; inspects work site to determine presence of obstructions and ascertain if altering of structure will cause excessive structure weakness; lays out sequence of work; fabricates pipes and fittings with use of pipe cutters, hacksaws, hammers and chisels, cutting torch, threading machine, and pipe bending machine; joins piping by means of threaded, brazed, soldered or welded joints; secures pipes to structure; inspects and tests completed system.
2. Pipe Repair and Replacement. Typical tasks: troubleshoots by visual inspection or use of gauges for leaks of steam, water, or air; spot welds leaks if appropriate; chooses proper replacement pipe or fitting from a variety of metals and nonmetals such as brass, copper, lead, and plastic; modifies pipes and fittings to specifications; installs new pipe or fitting by means of threaded, brazed, or welded joints; tests pipes, valves and pumps by increasing pressure and observing gauges; makes minor repairs or purchases new valves and pumps if appropriate.

RELATIONSHIPS WITH OTHERS

Employees in this class have regular in-person contact with agency staff and clients to schedule work in a way which will minimize disruption of their unit operations. Pipe and Steam Fitters also have regular in-person contact with members of other trades, such as Refrigeration Mechanics, Boiler Operators, Plumbers, and Electricians, to coordinate and prioritize work. Pipe and Steam Fitters have occasional in-person or phone contact with vendors when ordering supplies such as pumps and valves.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Pipe and Steam Fitters work under general supervision of an administrative supervisor. Work is assigned verbally or through written work orders. Work is reviewed several times a week for quality, completeness, and compliance with State Building Codes, Occupational Safety Laws, and agency regulations and policies.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Positions are found in central and remote locations throughout state government (e.g., general government agencies, human or natural resource agencies, correctional, mental health, or higher education institutions (hospitals, etc.). They require the willingness to work within the environment associated with the position's location. They require the willingness to work outdoors in inclement weather. They require the willingness to walk, stand, and work while bending and stooping for extended periods. They require the willingness to work in an environment containing dust, odor, and high levels of noise. They require the willingness to lift and carry heavy objects such as steel pipe.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Two years of experience as a journey-level pipe and steamfitter; OR
• Completion of an approved apprenticeship program.