JUST SOME OF YOUR
CAREER choices
Discover a career in
the civil industry as a…
PIPE
LAYER
A Pipe Layer places all different types of pipes on and under the ground using a variety of hand tools, trenching machines, and earthmoving plant.
THE ROLE
You will work on different sites, on different jobs, and be laying and repairing all types of metal, concrete and plastic pipes along with electrical cables. These pipes can be laid above the ground or under. The work will include preparing the site and then ensuring the pipes are installed well. You will be working with all types of plant and equipment.
THE CAREER
WHERE WILL YOU WORK?
Pipes are everywhere! You could be working on constructing or maintaining them for roads, bridges, new housing estates, farms (including wind and solar), golf courses, and building sites… the options go on!
WHO WILL EMPLOY YOU?
You will have lots of options. Small, medium and large businesses need pipe layers, along with local councils.
HOW SAFE IS IT?
Modem equipment and methods are very, very safe. Safety in the civil construction industry is given very high importance.
IS THE WORK TECHNICALLY HARD?
No. It’s challenging, but not complex. Your employer will train you on the job in each task and in the machines and tools you will use. There is some good technology used in pipe laying, but you will be taught how to use it.
IS THE WORK PHYSICALLY HARD?
There is some physical effort required, but everyone is different and employers know that – you do not need to be especially strong.
THE TRAINING
IS THERE TRAINING PROVIDED AND WILL IT COST YOU?
Yes, and your employer will train you and pay for it. If you want to get a qualification it will be paid for by the employer and the Government.
IS THERE A QUALIFICATION?
Yes, if you want. It’s not essential, but you can receive a Nationally Recognised Qualification such as a Certificate III in Civil Construction Pipe laying.
CAN YOU GET A TRADE?
Yes, in most States ‘Pipe laying’ in civil construction is a Trade.
REQUIREMENTS
WHO IS SUITED TO THE JOB?
People who like working outdoors and who enjoy practical tasks. People who don’t mind getting a little dirty are well suited!
HOW OLD DO YOU HAVE TO BE TO START?
You have to be at least 14 years of age.
WHO IS SUITED TO THE JOB?
There are NO minimum score results, or subjects, required. An understanding of fundamental maths is very useful. All you really need is a desire to work and learn.
ARE THERE ANY PREREQUISITES TO STARTING?
No. Your employer will even pay for your safety gear!
THE FUTURE
IS THERE A FUTURE CAREER?
Yes! Pipe laying is quite specialised so you could become an expert pipe layer, or grow into a supervisor, manager, set up your own business, or even go on to university and become an engineer.
WILL YOU HAVE TO MOVE AROUND?
No. It’s your call when you choose between jobs as some employers have projects in different locations. If you do move, your expenses are often covered by the employer.
CAN YOU GET MORE SKILLS LATER?
Yes, if you want to. There are Certificate IVs, Diplomas and management courses you can do. It’s your call what you do and how far you go!
CAN YOU GO TO UNI ONE DAY?
Yes. The practical skills you learn will be very useful for engineering-related courses.
HOW DO I GET STARTED?
There are a few options… Many start out working for a bit as a Site Hand to learn the ropes. However, it’s also possible to start directly doing pipe laying – even as an Apprentice Pipe Layer.
WANT TO LEARN MORE?
Check out our Civil Career Map or look at this Role’s Detailed Description on our website www.careerincivil.com