72301

Steamfitters, pipefitters and sprinkler system installers

TEER 2 — College diploma, apprenticeship (2+ yrs) or supervisory

Express Entry skill level: Yes
Regulated in Québec: Yes
In demand in Manitoba: No

Classification

Trades, transport & equipment operators

7 › 72 › 723 › 7230

Definition

Steamfitters and pipefitters lay out, assemble, fabricate, maintain, troubleshoot and repair piping systems carrying water, steam, chemicals and fuel in heating, cooling, lubricating and other process piping systems. Sprinkler system installers fabricate, install, test, maintain and repair water, foam, carbon dioxide and dry chemical sprinkler systems in buildings for fire protection purposes. Steamfitters, pipefitters and sprinkler system installers are employed in maintenance departments of factories, plants and similar establishments, and by pipefitting and sprinkler system contractors, or they may be self-employed. Apprentices are also included in this unit group.

Main duties

This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Steamfitters and pipefitters
Read and interpret drawings, blueprints and specifications to determine layout requirements
Cut openings for pipe in walls, floors and ceilings using hand or power tools or machines
Select type and size of pipe required
Measure, cut, thread and bend pipe to required shape using hand and power tools
Weld, braze, cement, solder and thread joints to join pipes and fabricate sections of piping system
Install supports, valves, piping and control systems
Test system for leaks using testing equipment
Clean and maintain pipe units and fittings and flush system
Remove and replace worn components and reactivate system
May prepare cost estimates for clients.
Sprinkler system installers
Read and interpret drawings, specifications and fire codes to determine layout requirements
Install clamps, brackets and hangers to support piping system and sprinkler and fire protection equipment, using hand and power tools
Select, measure, cut, ream and thread pipe, install sprinkler heads and mount prepared pipe in supports
Join pipes and piping sections using soldering and welding equipment
Connect piping system to water mains, supply tanks, pumps, compressors and control equipment
Installs valves, alarms and associated equipment
Test system for leaks using air or liquid pressure equipment
Service and repair sprinkler system
May prepare cost estimates for clients.

Example job titles

•apprentice pipefitter-steamfitter
•fire protection mechanic
•fire sprinkler fitter
•marine pipefitter
•pipefitter
•sprinkler system fitter
•sprinkler system installer
•steamfitter

Overview

National Occupational Classification (NOC) code 72301 covers steamfitters, pipefitters, and sprinkler system installers under Canada's NOC 2021 system. Classified as a TEER 2 occupation, professionals in this field are responsible for laying out, assembling, fabricating, maintaining, and repairing piping systems that carry steam, water, chemicals, or other substances. These systems are typically found in commercial, institutional, and industrial structures. Main responsibilities include reading blueprints, installing pipe hangers, and testing systems for leaks using specialized testing equipment.

To immigrate to Canada under NOC 72301, candidates can leverage several skilled trades pathways. Because this is a TEER 2 occupation, it qualifies for the Express Entry system, specifically the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), as well as various Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). Standard employment requirements for this NOC include completion of secondary school, a three- to five-year apprenticeship program in the trade, or a combination of work experience and industry training. Trade certification is compulsory in most provinces and territories, and obtaining a Red Seal endorsement can significantly enhance national mobility and employment prospects.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional immigration advice. For official guidelines, please consult Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or a regulated Canadian immigration consultant.

Educational overview summarizing this occupation. Always confirm against the official NOC profile and IRCC before relying on it.

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Occupation data: Statistics Canada / ESDC — National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021.