Daphne, AL is experiencing steady demand for skilled pipefitting professionals, with 25-38 openings currently available in the field 12. Entry-level apprentices can expect to earn between $21-$33/hour, with experienced pipefitters making up to $31+/hour 34. Aspiring pipefitters have access to local training programs through Coastal Alabama Community College and Calhoun College 56, with clear career progression paths detailed on resources like PTT's career guide, from apprenticeship to journeyman to master plumber status 78. Major industrial developments involving Airbus, Austal USA and ThyssenKrupp, along with infrastructure projects like the $10 million amphitheater project on Mobile Bay covered in local news updates, are driving ongoing demand for qualified pipefitters through 2025 and beyond 8. Whether you're just starting out or looking to advance your career, Daphne offers quality opportunities in this skilled trade, with detailed job outlooks available at BLS statistics.
A pipefitter is a skilled tradesperson who installs, maintains, and repairs pipes that carry liquids, gases, and other materials in industrial, commercial, and construction environments 9. Unlike general plumbers, pipefitters specialize in high-pressure systems for industrial applications including boiler systems, HVAC, and chemical processing plants.
Your responsibilities as a pipefitter include:
Pipefitters work in diverse environments including shipyards, manufacturing plants, construction sites, and commercial buildings - all typical workplaces in Daphne's industrial economy 7. For more on career paths, visit TWS's welding blog.
Unlike some locations, Daphne, AL doesn't require a traditional license but does have a defined path to becoming a certified pipefitter:
The journeyman and master level certifications allow you to work independently and take on greater responsibility in the field 7, substantially increasing job opportunities and earning potential. Check local bid details for additional information on related opportunities.
The foundation for a successful pipefitting career in Daphne, AL starts with completing a rigorous apprenticeship program. Here are the typical requirements:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 18 years or older |
| Education | High school diploma or GED |
| Physical Demands | Ability to lift heavy objects, work in confined spaces |
| Legal Status | Must demonstrate legal U.S. residency |
| Financial | Registration fee required to begin apprenticeship 7 |
To find available apprenticeships in Daphne:
Local training programs at Coastal Alabama Community College and Calhoun College also offer NCCER Pipefitting Level One and Level Two courses that prepare students for apprenticeship and certification 56. For salary details, explore ZipRecruiter.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to launching your career:
A formal pipefitting apprenticeship typically lasts 4-5 years and combines both on-the-job training and classroom instruction 10. According to recent data, apprentices in Daphne can expect to earn between $21-$33 per hour while learning the trade 3.
During your apprenticeship you'll learn:
After completing your apprenticeship (minimum 2 years), you become eligible to take the Alabama Plumbers and Gas Fitters Examining Board certification exam. This allows you to work independently at a journeyman level 8.
With at least 1 year of journeyman experience, you may qualify to take the master plumber or gas fitter exam. This level of certification is required when working on complex systems or when managing other pipefitters 7.
Wages for pipefitters in Daphne, AL align closely with state averages though remain slightly below national levels 7. Here's what to expect at different career stages:
| Career Stage | Hourly Wage | Annual Equivalent | Certifications Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apprentice | $21-$33 | $43,700-$68,600 | None required beyond apprentice status |
| Journeyman | $31+ | $64,500+ | Journeyman certification |
| Union Positions | $31,597-$49,413 | $31,597-$49,413 | Journeyman certification typically required |
According to 2025 data, the average hourly wage for pipefitting roles in Daphne is about $21.57, with reported ranges up to $35.54 5. When compared to the average Alabama pipefitter hourly wage of $26.48 and the national average of $32, Daphne wages are slightly lower but reflect strong local demand 710.
Union membership through organizations like UA Local 119 can provide better pay and benefits, making this an attractive pathway for advancing your pipefitting career 7. See more on salaries at ZipRecruiter.
Daphne's growing economy supports strong demand for pipefitting professionals through several major industries:
Major investments from global companies including Airbus with its Final Assembly Line at Brookley Field and ThyssenKrupp's steel plant (now operated by ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel) create ongoing need for specialized pipefitters experienced in industrial systems 7.
Austal USA's significant shipbuilding operations for the U.S. Navy in the Daphne area create steady demand for pipefitters with marine industry experience and potentially higher wages - recent reporting shows hourly wages up to $38 11.
The Port of Mobile's ongoing growth, ranked as the 12th largest U.S. port in 2013, continues to drive regional economic development that benefits pipefitters7.
Daphne is currently investing millions in infrastructure initiatives including:
To advance in the pipefitting trade in Daphne, focus on developing both technical skills and soft skills:
As you gain experience, pursue specialized certifications and consider becoming a master plumber or master gas fitter. Advanced roles in project management or construction site supervision become available with years of experience and proper training investment 8. Visit PTT's guide for more on career advancement.
Alabama is experiencing significant labor challenges that affect pipefitters and other skilled trades. By early 2025, the state reported 116,000 job openings, creating both opportunities and challenges for skilled workers 7. Employers commonly struggle to fill roles, but experienced pipefitters can benefit from working in a candidate-driven market.
Additional challenges:
Industry training programs from companies like Power & Industrial and CB&I in Alabama help address skill gaps, while union apprenticeships provide elite development opportunities 8. Explore BLS resources for more insights on challenges.
Starting a pipefitting career in Daphne, AL provides access to growing opportunities in industrial, commercial, and infrastructure sectors. With steady demand, competitive wages, and clear advancement potential, this skilled trade offers a stable and rewarding career path.
To begin:
As the Daphne economy continues to grow, now is an excellent time to begin your career in the pipefitting trade. With major industrial projects, shipbuilding operations and public infrastructure investments driving demand, quality pipefitters are enjoying strong career prospects in the region. For additional resources, check Gild's guide or visit ZipRecruiter for jobs.
https://www.indeed.com/q-pipefitter-l-daphne,-al-jobs.html ↩
https://www.indeed.com/q-pipe-fitter-l-daphne,-al-jobs.html ↩
https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Jobs/Pipefitter-Apprentice/-in-Daphne,AL ↩ ↩2
https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Jobs/And-Fitter/-in-Daphne,AL ↩
https://www.coastalalabama.edu/welding-and-marine/pipefitting-stc-pft ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
https://calhoun.edu/workforce-solutions/industrial-technologies/pipefitting/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
https://pgfb.alabama.gov/applicants/how-do-i-become-licensed/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7 ↩8 ↩9 ↩10 ↩11 ↩12 ↩13 ↩14
https://nitc.com/post/Regulatory-Requirements-for-Licensing-and-Certification-for-Plumbers-Alabama-Alaska-Arizona-Arkansas-and-Georgia ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7
https://www.tws.edu/blog/welding/licensing-requirements-for-pipefitters-by-state/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
https://www.glassdoor.com/Job/mobile-pipefitter-jobs-SRCH_IL.0,6_IC1127676_KO7,17.htm ↩
