How to Write a Pipefitter Resume (Guide With Examples)

You know everything about installing and maintaining piping systems, welding techniques, and blueprint reading. But can you convince potential employers that you're the one to take their piping projects to the next level? Even if writing isn’t your strong suit, it's time to put pen to paper and showcase your expertise.

In this guide, you’ll get the essential sections, formatting tips, and dos and don'ts of crafting a winning pipefitter resume that gets you an interview.

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Haven’t found the job? See a list of 500+ resume examples to get you what you want. 

Pipefitter Resume Sample

Now follow these steps to learn how to write a successful pipefitter resume: 

1. Pick the Best Resume Format for Your Pipefitter Resume

Pipefitters can identify the piping and fitting types needed for a job. They understand the fluid flow and are familiar with the installation and maintenance of piping systems. Plus, they can read and understand blueprints and know welding techniques and piping regulations. 

No matter the level of expertise, a cluttered mess on your resume lowers the chances of your resume getting noticed by potential employers. That's why it's crucial to format your pipefitter resume effectively. 

While there are different resume formats to choose from, the reverse chronological resume format is widely considered the most effective for pipefitters.

Here are some formatting tips for your resume to achieve such format:

• Keep your resume header simple and straightforward. List your name, phone number, and email address at the top of the page.
• Use a clear and legible resume font, such as Arial, Helvetica, or Calibri, in 10–12 font-size points. Avoid decorative or cursive fonts that could be hard to read.
• Make sure your resume is easy on the eyes. Stick to black text on a white background, and use bold or italic formatting sparingly to highlight important details. (You can always go for a clean resume template to get the formatting done quickly.)
• Use bullet points on your resume to break down your work history and skills sections into easy-to-read and skimmable chunks.
• Remember to list all entries in each resume section starting from the most recent and going backward. 

Pro Tip: To get the most out of your chronological resume, stick to the relevant experience and skills only and go 10–15 years back on your resume maximum. Recruiters are familiar with that format and know where to look for the information that interests them. Deliver it to them fast and get a call even faster.

2. Couple Your Experience and Skills for a Summary or Objective

To make a strong impression from the get-go, join your expert background with the strongest skills to create a compelling resume summary or career objective. Think of them as your elevator pitch or personal statement highlighting your unique value as a pipefitter.

If you're just starting out in the industry, think about including a resume objective that focuses on your transferable skills and goals. For example, you could highlight your knowledge of safety regulations, experience with power tools, and dedication to accuracy and precision in all piping work.

However, if you have a number of years of experience, choose a resume summary. It should give a concise overview of your background, professional achievements, and necessary skills to perform the job. For example, you could include one of your most significant accomplishments as a pipefitter, like overseeing a successful renovation project.

No matter which one you choose to go for, consider the following:

• A couple of adjectives that describe your work style, such as "detail-oriented" or "analytical."
• Your title, such as "Experienced Pipefitter" or "Certified Welding Specialist."
• The number of years of experience you have in the industry, such as "10+ years of experience in industrial pipe fitting."
• Any relevant certifications or licenses, such as a welding certification or OSHA safety training.
• Specific achievements and metrics, such as "Installed and maintained over 100 piping systems with zero accidents or incidents.”
• Your career goals or value proposition, such as "Dedicated to ensuring safe and efficient piping systems for commercial and residential clients."

Remember, your summary or objective is your chance to make a memorable first impression, so make sure it proves your unique skills, experience, and value as a pipefitter.

3. Customize Your Pipefitter Job Description

Imagine you're a piping project manager searching for the ideal candidate. What skills and experience do you want to see in a pipefitter? Look for those keywords and phrases in the job description, and tailor your application to the specific job you're applying for. If possible, use the same job titles and descriptions found in the job listing.

Also, be specific with your achievements and metrics in your work experience section. Have you installed complex piping systems or used your welding expertise to save time and money on a project? Let the hiring managers know.

By taking the time to tailor your resume, you'll show potential employers that you're the perfect fit for their company and stand out from other applicants who just send in a one-size-fits-all resume.

An NPT will not fit a BSP, so don't just send in a generic resume. Read more about them here: What Is a General Resume & When Can You Use It?

4. Add Education to Your Pipefitter Resume

When it comes to your pipefitter resume, the education section may not be the most important part, especially if you have extensive industry experience. However, it's still important to include relevant credentials and training to present your qualifications.

Here are best practices when crafting the education section for your pipefitter resume:

• If you have completed technical training or college, list those first. Include the name of the institution, the degree or certificate earned, and the dates attended.
• If you are a recent graduate or entry-level pipefitter, you can include more detail about your education. For example, you may want to include relevant coursework or academic projects that highlight your understanding of piping systems and materials.
• Include your high school education if you have not pursued any further technical training or college. If you have, prioritize those educational experiences instead.

Even if education isn’t the most critical aspect of your application, it speaks dedication and sets you apart from the competition.

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5. Accumulate the Essential Skills on a Pipefitter Resume

For your pipefitter resume, the skills section is the place to shine. 

Begin by featuring all of your relevant technical skills, such as welding techniques, blueprint reading, pipe threading, system installation, and knowledge of safety regulations and codes. 

You'll also want to include any soft skills that apply to the job role. (Yes! Pipefitters must combine hard skills with soft abilities to perform the job well.) Think teamwork, communication, and problem-solving abilities.

Here you have a sample list of pipefitter skills to get you started:

Pipefitter Resume Skills

• Welding techniques
• Blueprint reading
• Pipe threading
• System installation
• Knowledge of safety regulations and codes
• Teamwork skills
• Effective communication
• Problem-solving abilities
• Mechanical aptitude
• Ability to handle physical labor
• Ability to read and interpret technical documents
• Troubleshooting
• Self-motivation with a strong work ethic
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to work collaboratively with others

6. Include Other Sections on Your Pipefitter Resume

You've crafted a solid pipefitter resume, but how do you make it rust-free? By showing your passion for the job and highlighting your unique skills and qualities. One way to accomplish that is by adding extra information to your resume. 

Here are some ideas:

• Certifications and licenses: Highlight any relevant certifications or licenses, such as a journeyman pipefitter certification or an OSHA safety certification. It shows that you’re committed to the trade, which is a major plus in the eyes of the recruiting manager.
• Training: Mention any training courses or workshops that relate to pipefitting. This indicates that you’re constantly learning and upgrading your skills to keep up with industry changes.
• Volunteer Experience: If you have volunteered for organizations or non-profits that are similar to your field, this will help your prospective employer understand the passion that you bring to the job.

With a more complete picture of your experience and expertise, you’ll have a bigger chance of landing the job. 

7. Attach a Cover Letter to Make the Most of the Pipefitter Resume

Do you think a cover letter is an unnecessary addition to your pipefitter resume? Think again. According to HR statistics, including a well-written cover letter can increase your chances of getting hired. In fact, many recruiters won't even consider a resume unless it's accompanied by a cover letter.

To help you write it, here are some tips on how to make it error-free:

• Use a professional-looking cover letter format that's easy to read and visually appealing.
• Make sure to include all necessary details in your cover letter heading, such as your name, phone number, and email address.
• Address the recruiter by name in your cover letter salutation instead of using a generic phrase like "To Whom It May Concern."
• Start the cover letter by mentioning how you found out about the job posting and highlighting one or two of your key achievements.
• In the body of the letter, discuss what you admire about the company and why you would be a good fit, adding more accomplishments to sell yourself.
• End the cover letter with a strong call to action, expressing your excitement about the opportunity and your willingness to discuss your qualifications further in an interview.
• Remember to keep the ideal length of your cover letter to one page or less to maintain your reader's interest.

Plus, a great cover letter that matches your resume will give you an advantage over other candidates. You can write it in our cover letter builder here. Here's what it may look like:

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Your pipefitter resume is ready! Now it’s time to land your dream job. 

Are you creating a pipefitter resume for the first time? Or maybe you're an experienced pro who wants to help newcomers in the industry? We'd love to hear from you! Please leave your comment below and share your tips and advice on how to craft a standout pipefitter resume.

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Sources

• https://www.bls.gov/ooh/construction-and-extraction/plumbers-pipefitters-and-steamfitters.htm