Are you looking to start a new career or take the next step in your current path? If you're considering the pipefitting trade in Daytona Beach, FL, you're likely asking questions like, 'Do I need a license to be a pipefitter?', 'What are the salary expectations?', and 'How do I find an apprenticeship?'
With the pipefitting industry in Daytona Beach showing strong job growth, hourly wages for pipefitters ranging from $23 to $62, and over a dozen current job openings listed across platforms, now is a great time to enter this skilled trade. Let's break down everything you need to know to get started.
Before diving into the steps of becoming a pipefitter, it's important to understand what the job entails. Pipefitters install, maintain, and repair metal and plastic pipe systems that carry liquids or gases, most often in manufacturing, commercial, and industrial facilities. This involves reading blueprints, cutting and threading pipes, and connecting them using welds, soldering, or threaded fittings.
In Daytona Beach, you'll typically find pipefitters working in:
A good pipefitter possesses physical stamina, good hand-eye coordination, and strong problem-solving abilities—skills necessary for working in tight spaces or at heights.
Unlike some skilled trades, pipefitting is not state-licensed in Florida. However, employers typically require proof of professional training or an apprenticeship program to ensure competency. The most respected training path in Daytona Beach is through Plumbers and Pipefitters Local Union #295, in conjunction with Daytona State College.
Employers may also look for safety certifications such as:
These credentials verify that you’ve completed rigorous safety and technical training and are ready for industrial projects.
The best route into the pipefitting trade in Daytona Beach is a five-year apprenticeship program offered through Local Union #295 and Daytona State College1. This program combines 10,000 hours of on-the-job training with classroom instruction, covering topics like blueprint reading, welding, math, and system layout.
While apprenticeships are the most structured path, some entry-level positions hiring pipefitter helpers may be available for those seeking a quicker start.
Earnings can vary based on experience, certification, and whether or not you join a union. Here's a general breakdown:
| Experience Level | Hourly Wage | Annual Salary Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Pipefitter Helper | ~$21.27/hour as per industry reports | ~$44,000/year |
| Apprentice Pipefitter | $14 to $25/hour | $29,000 to $52,000/year |
| Journeyman Pipefitter | $24 to $35/hour | $50,000 to $73,000/year |
| Union Pipefitter | $21.40 to $29.28/hour | $44,500 to $61,000/year |
| Commercial Pipefitter | $25 to $40/hour | $52,000 to $83,000/year |
Benefits for full-time positions often include health insurance, retirement plans, and ongoing training—especially when working with larger contractors or union-affiliated employers.
The job outlook for pipefitters in Daytona Beach remains favorable, with Florida projecting 15% job growth for pipelaying and pipefitting helper jobs between 2020 and 2030 as reported by state data. Industrial expansion and ongoing construction projects in the Daytona Beach area contribute to continued demand for skilled pipefitters.
With the pipefitting trade offering strong earning potential, solid job security, and clear paths for advancement, there’s never been a better time to enter this field.
Take your first step toward a stable, well-paying career today by exploring the latest pipefitter apprenticeship opportunities in Daytona Beach on Gild, where trade-related job openings are consolidated for easy application.
Keep in mind, while the journey to becoming a journeyman pipefitter takes commitment, the long-term rewards—competitive wages, opportunities for specialization, and job stability—make this a worthwhile investment in your future.
For thousands of pipefitting and industrial maintenance openings in one convenient location, begin your search here on Gild. Whether you're pursuing your first opportunity or advancing in your current trade career, this guide provides the information you need to launch your pipefitting journey in Daytona Beach.
