PIPEFITTER

University of Alabama at Birmingham; University (FL); On-site; USD 33,131 - 43,050; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive health coverage

Competitive retirement options

Employee wellness programs

Job summary

The University of Alabama at Birmingham is seeking a dedicated Pipefitter to maintain and repair vital campus piping systems ensuring safe and efficient operations. The role involves performing pipefitting and welding tasks, conducting preventive maintenance, and responding to emergencies while adhering to safety protocols.

Ideal candidates have a post-secondary technical education and 3+ years of relevant experience, with 6G welding certification required within 6 months of employment. A comprehensive benefits package is included.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years of relevant pipefitting experience.
• 6G welding certification is required within 6 months.
• Experience with mechanical and utility systems.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and repair campus piping systems.
• Conduct routine preventive maintenance on mechanical systems.
• Respond to maintenance requests and emergencies.

Skills

Steam fitting expertise

Pipefitting skills

Welding techniques

Strong mechanical aptitude

Ability to troubleshoot complex systems

Confined space entry procedures knowledge

Effective communication skills

Organizational skills

Education

Post-secondary vocational or technical school program

Formal apprenticeship in steam fitting or pipe fitting

Tools

Piping systems

Welding equipment

Maintenance software

Job description

Position Overview

UAB is seeking a dedicated Pipefitter to ensure the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of campus piping systems. As a Pipefitter at UAB, you will help maintain essential mechanical and utility systems that keep the University operating at its best.

Essential Accountabilities

• Maintains, repairs, modifies, and installs steam and chilled water piping systems, including traps, valves, heat exchangers, condensate return systems, flash tanks, boilers, and related components.
• Assembles and installs pipe systems, pipe supports, and hydraulic/pneumatic equipment; performs brazing, hard and soft soldering, and welding using MIG, TIG, stick, and oxy‑fuel methods on stainless steel, carbon steel, cast iron, and aluminum.
• Conducts routine and preventive maintenance on mechanical systems including steam, hot water, compressed air, and chilled water; tasks include cleaning, inspecting, troubleshooting, adjusting, replacing, and lubricating components.
• Assists or performs duties typically assigned to other trades such as HVAC Mechanics, Electricians, Plumbers, Carpenters, Masons, and Maintenance Technicians.
• Responds to maintenance requests and emergencies, including system failures, service calls, and installation or modification needs.
• Performs pressure tapping (“hot tap”) welding installations and follows all related safety procedures; troubleshoots and repairs HVAC systems, water treatment equipment, grease traps, sanitary drain lines, and sewage ejectors.
• Reads and interprets blueprints, technical drawings, floor plans, schedules, and manufacturer specifications related to mechanical, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and specialized systems.
• Performs work in confined spaces in accordance with safety protocols.
• Performs additional duties as assigned to support facility operations.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Expertise in steam fitting, pipefitting, and welding techniques.
• Strong working knowledge of steam, chilled water, compressed air, and HVAC systems.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications.
• Knowledge of confined space entry procedures and safety standards.
• Experience with pressure tapping and hot tap welding, including required safety practices.
• Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot complex systems.
• Ability to diagnose and resolve mechanical, piping, and system performance issues.
• Proficient with personal computers, maintenance software, and digital work order systems.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite and related applications.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal and conflict‑resolution abilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong organizational and prioritization skills.
• Ability to lead or mentor junior staff and collaborate across multiple trades.
• Experience with process improvement and quality assurance.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, shift priorities, and respond to emergencies.
• Basic project management skills for coordinating installations, repairs, and maintenance activities.

Hourly Pay Range

$24.05 – $31.25, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Candidates without 6G certification must obtain it within the first 6 months of employment.

A $2/hour incentive pay for 6G certification will be added upon completion.

OT Pay: 0–10 hours OT/Week is expected; may exceed 10 hours/Week under extraordinary conditions.

Work Schedule

• Monday through Friday, 7:00 am–3:30 pm (subject to change to meet the needs of the department and University).
• Overtime as required.
• Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including on‑call, evenings, weekends, and holidays based on operational needs.

Qualifications

• Completion of an accredited post‑secondary vocational or technical school program required.
• Formal apprenticeship in steam fitting or pipe fitting, including classroom and hands‑on training; journeyman level preferred.
• Minimum of 3 years of relevant pipefitting experience in similar facilities.
• Equivalent work experience may substitute for formal education requirements.

Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations

• 6G welding certification required within 6 months of hire date.
• Certification in pipe fitting and/or steam fitting from a recognized program preferred.

Motor Vehicle Record (MVR)

• Valid U.S. driver’s license.
• Minimum age of 21.
• At least three years of driving experience.
• Driving record must meet University underwriting guidelines.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to safely perform job duties with or without mechanical assistance.
• Lifting and carrying at least 50 lbs.
• Climbing stairs, ladders, and scaffolding; working at heights above 30 feet.
• Bending, stooping, kneeling, and walking significant distances between and within buildings on campus.
• Working in confined spaces.
• Working in extreme temperature environments and humidity ranges with a variety of materials.

Benefit Overview

UAB provides a comprehensive benefits package, including health coverage, competitive retirement options, wellness programs, and a wide range of employee perks designed to support you both at work and at home. Full benefits overview: https://www.uab.edu/humanresources/home/benefits

Equal Employment Opportunity

UAB is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal access to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, sex (including pregnancy), genetic information, age, disability, and veteran's status. As required by Title IX, UAB prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to UAB’s Assistant Vice President and Senior Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX notice of nondiscrimination is located at uab.edu/titleix.