The pipefitting trade in Oklahoma City is booming, with 30 open pipefitter jobs on Indeed and 121 statewide positions on ZipRecruiter in 2025 12. For more job listings, check out Indeed's pipefitting opportunities. Pipefitters in Oklahoma earn an average hourly wage of $29.35, with salaries ranging from $22 to $38/hour depending on experience and union membership 13. With a five-year apprenticeship offering 246 classroom hours/year and 1,500–2,000 on-the-job hours/year, Oklahoma’s programs prepare workers for high-demand roles in industrial and infrastructure projects 4. This guide covers licensing, training, and career growth strategies for 2025; explore UA Plumbers website for more union details.
What Does a Pipefitter Do?
Pipefitters specialize in installing and maintaining piping systems that transport liquids, gases, and chemicals in industrial, commercial, and HVAC systems. Unlike plumbers (focused on water and sanitation), pipefitters handle high-pressure systems in power plants, refineries, and manufacturing facilities 1. Key duties include:
- Reading blueprints and schematics
- Cutting, threading, and assembling pipes
- Welding and leak testing
- Compliance with OSHA and safety protocols 5
To learn more about job demands, visit Oklahoma’s job listings on ZipRecruiter.
Licensing Requirements in Oklahoma City
To work as a journeyman pipefitter in Oklahoma City, you must complete a five-year apprenticeship through programs like UA Local 344 or the Plumbers and Pipefitters Joint Apprenticeship and Training Program 16. Licensing ensures compliance with state and federal safety standards. For detailed certification info, see PHMSA training resources.
Mandatory Requirements:
- Age 18+: Apprenticeship programs require a minimum age of 18 4.
- High School Diploma or GED: Preferred by most employers 4.
- Union Affiliation: While optional, Local 344 membership offers benefits like wage progression and health insurance 5. Reference UA payscales for wage insights.
Apprenticeship and Training Programs

Oklahoma’s apprenticeships combine paid on-the-job training with technical education. Below are top programs in 2025:
Program |
Provider |
Duration |
Classroom Hours |
Location |
UA Local 344 Apprenticeship |
Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 344 |
5 years |
246/year |
5315 S. Shartel, OKC |
Mid-Del Technology Center |
Mid-Del Tech |
900+ hours |
Optional |
Midwest City |
Wes Watkins Technology Center |
Wes Watkins Tech |
1,000+ hours |
Limited |
Wetumka |
For program specifics, visit Oklahoma Building and Construction Trades Council. Training Highlights:
- Safety: OSHA 30 certification is integrated into most curricula 1.
- Welding: Specialized training in SMAW and GMAW 6.
- Smart Technologies: Introduction to 3D printing and BIM software for advanced installations 5. Additional adaptation strategies are available at PTT’s efficiency guide.
Steps to Becoming a Pipefitter in Oklahoma City
- Meet Basic Requirements: Confirm eligibility (18+, high school diploma) 4.
- Apply for Apprenticeships: Use platforms like Gild to filter Oklahoma City opportunities 4.
- Complete Classroom & On-the-Job Training: Earn progressively rising wages (starting at $17/hour, reaching $31/hour+ after 5 years) while mastering skills like medical gas installation 5.
- Obtain Journeyman License: Apply through the Oklahoma Construction Industries Board after completing apprenticeship hours 4. For more Oklahoma job options, explore Indeed's state listings.
Career Prospects and Salary Trends

Job Stability: Oklahoma’s $2.1 billion infrastructure investments by 2025 ensure consistent demand for pipefitters in HVAC, fire sprinkler systems, and refineries 5.
- Senior Pipefitters: Earn $72,978/year on average in Oklahoma City 6.
- National Comparisons:
- Jacksonville, FL: $70,000/year
- San Diego, CA: $107,560/year 3
Union Benefits: UA Local 344 members access healthcare, retirement plans, and overtime opportunities 5. Dive deeper into salary data at ZipRecruiter Oklahoma salaries.
Overcoming Challenges and Adapting to Innovation
Top Risks:
- Safety: Exposure to high-pressure systems requires rigorous lockout/tagout procedures 5.
- Labor Shortages: Only 1 in 3 apprentices completes the five-year program 2.
Tech Innovations:
- Smart Pipe Sensors: Enable real-time leak monitoring 5.
- Robotics: Automated welding reduces injury risks in hazardous environments 5.
Adaptation Strategy: Enroll in UA’s 2025 continuing education to stay ahead 1.
Key Takeaways
Oklahoma City’s pipefitting trade offers competitive salaries, robust demand, and union-backed training. With 5-year apprenticeships leading to journeyman licenses, workers gain technical and safety expertise aligned with 2025’s evolving industries.
Ready to Start? Search apprenticeships on Gild today and secure your place in Oklahoma’s growing industrial sector. For further resources, check out PHMSA training or PTT’s guide.

For more resources on pipefitting certifications, visit Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration 7.
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