Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters

Task by task

Each task this job involves, as listed by O*NET, rated on whether a large language model like GPT-4 could cut the time it takes by at least half at the same quality. Tasks marked Seen in real AI use appeared in conversations with Claude in April–May 2026 (Anthropic Economic Index).

• AI can speed this up on its own: 1 (3%)
• AI can speed this up with extra software: 4 (13%)
• Little or no AI speed-up: 25 (83%)

• Keep records of work assignments.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Lay out full scale drawings of pipe systems, supports, or related equipment, according to blueprints.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Review blueprints, building codes, or specifications to determine work details or procedures.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Estimate time, material, or labor costs for use in project plans.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Inspect work sites for obstructions or holes that could cause structural weakness.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Shut off steam, water, or other gases or liquids from pipe sections, using valve keys or wrenches.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Install underground storm, sanitary, or water piping systems, extending piping as needed to connect fixtures and plumbing.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Assemble pipe sections, tubing, or fittings, using couplings, clamps, screws, bolts, cement, plastic solvent, caulking, or soldering, brazing, or welding equipment.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Locate and mark the position of pipe installations, connections, passage holes, or fixtures in structures, using measuring instruments such as rulers or levels.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Cut, thread, or hammer pipes to specifications, using tools such as saws, cutting torches, pipe threaders, or pipe benders.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Plan pipe system layout, installation, or repair, according to specifications.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Select pipe sizes, types, or related materials, such as supports, hangers, or hydraulic cylinders, according to specifications.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Fill pipes or plumbing fixtures with water or air and observe pressure gauges to detect and locate leaks.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Direct helpers engaged in pipe cutting, preassembly, or installation of plumbing systems or components.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Inspect, examine, or test installed systems or pipe lines, using pressure gauge, hydrostatic testing, observation, or other methods.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Install pipe assemblies, fittings, valves, appliances such as dishwashers or water heaters, or fixtures such as sinks or toilets, using hand or power tools.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Anchor steel supports from ceiling joists to hold pipes in place.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Attach pipes to walls, structures, or fixtures, such as radiators or tanks, using brackets, clamps, tools, or welding equipment.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Modify, clean, or maintain pipe systems, units, fittings, or related machines or equipment, using hand or power tools.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Install automatic controls to regulate pipe systems.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Inspect structures to assess material or equipment needs, to establish the sequence of pipe installations, or to plan installation around obstructions, such as electrical wiring.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Maintain or repair plumbing by replacing defective washers, replacing or mending broken pipes, or opening clogged drains.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Repair or remove and replace system components.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Cut openings in structures to accommodate pipes or pipe fittings, using hand or power tools.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Install green plumbing equipment, such as faucet flow restrictors, dual-flush or pressure-assisted flush toilets, or tankless hot water heaters.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Install pipe systems to support alternative energy-fueled systems, such as geothermal heating or cooling systems.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Install fixtures, appliances, or equipment designed to reduce water or energy consumption.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Repair hydraulic or air pumps.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Weld small pipes or special piping, using specialized techniques, equipment, or materials, such as computer-assisted welding or microchip fabrication.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Operate motorized pumps to remove water from flooded manholes, basements, or facility floors.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task

Questions about plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters and AI