Pipefitter Career Guide in Rhode Island
Explore pipefitter salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Rhode Island.
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How to Become a Pipefitter in Rhode Island
Pipefitters generally complete a state-registered apprenticeship combining classroom education with several years of paid, supervised jobsite experience.
Note: Training pathways vary by employer, program sponsor, and licensing category. Classroom education may provide useful technical preparation, but it does not automatically replace supervised work experience unless the applicable licensing authority specifically allows that credit.
Pipefitter Salary in Rhode Island
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Rhode Island median wage for pipefitter workers, based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational wage data. A median wage is the point at which half of workers earn more and half earn less. It is not a guaranteed starting salary.
Actual earnings may vary by experience, license level, metropolitan area, employer, industry, overtime, and union agreement.
Compared with the national median of $62,970, the median wage in Rhode Island is approximately $15,300 higher. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Pipefitters in Rhode Island
Note: Licensing rules, fees, examinations, exemptions, and renewal requirements may change. Applicants should verify current requirements directly with the authority listed above before beginning work, applying for an examination, or enrolling in a training program.
CAREER PREPARATIONPipefitter Training Requirements in Rhode Island
Rhode Island pipefitters performing regulated work must register as apprentices and advance through the state licensing system.
- Enter a Rhode Island registered apprenticeship and work under an appropriately licensed pipefitter.
- Complete the required classroom instruction and documented paid on-the-job training hours.
- Study pipe fabrication, welding, blueprint reading, rigging, hydronics, steam systems, refrigeration piping, codes, and safety.
- Pass the applicable state examination before working as a licensed journeyperson or master pipefitter.
- Maintain the license and complete any renewal or continuing-education requirements imposed by the state.
Pipefitter Training Providers in Rhode Island
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| New England Institute of Technology – Plumbing and Heating Technology | East Greenwich | View Program |
| Community College of Rhode Island – Workforce Trades Training | Lincoln | View Program |
| Davies Career and Technical High School – Plumbing Technology | Lincoln | View Program |
| New England Technical Institute – Welding and Mechanical Training | Warwick | View Program |
Note: Program availability, admission requirements, tuition, and credit toward licensing requirements may change. Verify current details directly with the provider and the applicable state licensing authority before enrolling. Listings are informational and do not constitute rankings or endorsements.
PAID TRAINING OPPORTUNITIESPipefitter Apprenticeship Programs in Rhode Island
Registered Pipefitter Apprenticeship
Organization: Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training
Plumbing and Pipefitting Apprenticeship
Organization: Rhode Island Associated Builders and Contractors
Mechanical Trades Training Program
Organization: Mechanical Contractors Association of Rhode Island
Pipefitter Licensing Requirements in Rhode Island
Rhode Island directly licenses pipefitters and refrigeration or mechanical trades through the Department of Labor and Training. Apprentices must register, and licensed journeyperson or master status is required for regulated pipefitting work.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSPipefitter Job Outlook in Rhode Island
Healthcare facilities, universities, manufacturing, marine industries, utilities, and commercial construction should create continuing demand for licensed Rhode Island pipefitters.
Note: State employment projections may use a different base period from national BLS projections. Projected growth is an estimate rather than a guarantee of employment, and local demand may vary by metropolitan area, industry, construction activity, and employer investment.
CAREER QUESTIONSFrequently Asked Questions
What is the pipefitter salary in Rhode Island?
The statewide median wage for pipefitters in Rhode Island is approximately $78,270 per year, or $37.63 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Rhode Island require pipefitter licensing?
Yes. Rhode Island requires individuals performing regulated, non-exempt pipefitter work to hold the appropriate license or credential. Applicants should verify the current license category, experience, examination, and renewal requirements with Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training – Professional Regulation Unit.
How long does it take to become a pipefitter in Rhode Island?
The time required depends on the license pathway and training program. A typical training pathway takes approximately 4–5 Years Apprenticeship, although licensing, apprenticeship, and employer requirements may differ.
Are pipefitters in demand in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island projects pipefitter employment to grow by approximately 6% from 2022 to 2032. Projections include both new positions and openings created when workers leave the occupation.
Career Data Sources
State wage, employment outlook, and licensing information is reviewed using government and official regulatory sources. Data and requirements may change after publication.
- May 2024 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates — U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. May 2024 State OEWS
- Rhode Island Wages for Pipefitter (SOC 47-2152) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Rhode Island Pipefitter Wages
- Rhode Island Pipefitter Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Rhode Island Pipefitter Employment Trends
- Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training – Professional Regulation Unit — Licensing authority. Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training – Professional Regulation Unit