Pipeliner Career Profile
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Job Overview
Pipeline welders—often referred to as pipeliners—are essential to building and maintaining the systems that transport oil, gas, water, and other materials across long distances. They work on major infrastructure projects, laying and joining pipelines in various environments, including remote or rugged terrain.
Whether you’re interested in working along remote stretches of the Alaskan wilderness or supporting the buildout of urban utility networks, becoming a pipeline welder can open the door to a rewarding and high-paying career.
What Does a Pipeliner Do?
What Does a Pipeliner Do?
Pipeline welders are responsible for welding pipes to exact specifications, ensuring they are strong, durable, and leak-free. Most pipeliners work outdoors in physically demanding conditions and often travel extensively depending on the job site.
They must master specific welding techniques—like shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) and gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW)—and have a strong understanding of safety standards, welding codes (such as API 1104), and inspection protocols. Attention to detail and endurance are crucial in this role.
Essential Skills:
- Strong mechanical and mathematical aptitude
- Adapt to changes quickly and seamlessly
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Ability to work efficiently in all types of weather conditions
- Knowledge of blueprints, welding symbols, piping components, and field welding techniques
Salary & Career Outlook
Salary & Career Outlook
How Much Does a Pipeline Welder Make?
Wages for pipeliners vary based on experience, location, and project complexity, but this field is known for offering some of the highest-paying jobs in welding. According to industry sources, the pipeline welder salary scale is:
- Entry-level pipeline welders may earn $40,000–$60,000 annually
- Experienced or traveling pipeliners can make $80,000–$120,000 or more
- Overtime and per diem pay are common on large projects
With ongoing demand for energy infrastructure and utilities, job prospects remain strong for skilled and certified pipeliners.
Training & Certifications
Training & Certifications
How Do I Get Started in Pipeline Welding?
Many pipeliners begin their careers with a general welding education followed by pipe-specific training and testing. AWS offers training resources and certification programs—including the Certified Welder Program and endorsements in pipe welding and API 1104—that help validate the skills needed for this demanding role.
To get started, consider:
- Enrolling in an AWS-accredited training institution
- Earning relevant certifications
- Practicing pipe welding positions (such as 5G and 6G)
- Seeking apprenticeships or entry-level welding jobs with pipeline contractors
Pipeliner Job Demand
The heat map below showcases the total number of job postings for Pipeliners in the last twelve months by state. As shown, the darker the color of the state, the higher the concentration of job postings. The heat map is intended to provide insight into areas where Pipeliner careers are currently in demand.
Learn More
Learn More
Becoming a pipeline welder means entering one of the most respected, skilled, and well-compensated paths in the welding industry. If you’re ready for an adventure-driven career that combines physical work with technical precision, pipelining could be the perfect fit.
Explore AWS certification programs, training opportunities, and job listings to start building your future in pipeline welding.
Minimum Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Recommended Education
Certificate in welding, metals fabrication, machining, etc.
Advanced Education
Associates degree in welding, metals fabrication, machining, etc.
Recommended Training
Related pipeline work experience
Advanced Training
Apprenticeship program
Recommended Certification
AWS Certified Welder