The Senior Pipefitter is responsible for the expert-level installation, maintenance, inspection, and modification of mechanical piping systems in water treatment and distribution facilities. This role leads complex fit-up projects, supervises crews, ensures compliance with safety and technical standards, and collaborates closely with engineering teams on plant upgrades and process optimization initiatives.
Advanced Piping System Installation & Supervision
Interpret complex P&IDs, isometric drawings, and piping layout plans to install and modify high- and low-pressure piping systems.
Lead installation of piping systems for pumps, filters, RO units, clarifiers, and chemical dosing systems using various materials (stainless steel, carbon steel, PVC, HDPE).
Fabrication & System Integration
Design and fabricate custom spools, tie-ins, expansion loops, and supports both in-shop and in-field.
Coordinate integration of new piping with existing systems, minimizing downtime and ensuring continuity of operations.
Preventive & Predictive Maintenance
Conduct inspections to identify corrosion, misalignment, and fatigue in mechanical systems; initiate proactive maintenance.
Use diagnostic tools and methods to anticipate potential failure points in joints, gaskets, and supports.
Project & Crew Leadership
Lead pipefitting crews during shutdowns, turnarounds, and major system overhauls; assign tasks, ensure quality workmanship, and uphold timelines.
Mentor junior and mid-level pipefitters, providing technical guidance and hands-on training.
Safety Compliance & Risk Management
Ensure execution of safety practices including hot-work permits, confined-space entry, lockout/tagout, and PPE enforcement.
Conduct Job Safety Analysis (JSA) and participate in incident investigations and root cause analysis.
Quality Assurance & Testing
Oversee hydrostatic and pneumatic pressure testing; ensure all joints and welds meet code specifications (ASME B31.3, B31.1).
Collaborate with QA/QC inspectors for weld verification and documentation.
Collaboration & Documentation
Work closely with engineers, operations staff, and planners to execute work orders and system modifications.
Maintain detailed records of completed work, as-built drawings, and material use in CMMS systems.
Supervision of Piping System Installation & Upgrades
Custom Fabrication for High-Criticality Mechanical Systems
Corrosion Inspection, Pipe Integrity & Preventive Maintenance
Shutdown/Turnaround Execution & Crew Oversight
Pressure Testing, QA/QC Coordination & Code Compliance
Mentorship & Training of Pipefitting Team
Safety Leadership in High-Risk Work Environments
Coordination with Engineering & CMMS Documentation
Trade certification or diploma in Pipefitting, Mechanical Engineering Technology, or Industrial Maintenance.
7–10+ years of pipefitting experience in industrial or water treatment facilities, with 3+ years in a senior or supervisory role.
Proficiency in welding (TIG, MIG, SMAW); ASME-certified preferred.
Experience working with municipal standards, piping codes (ASME B31.3/B31.1), and water/wastewater systems.
Expert understanding of mechanical drawings, schematics, and P&IDs
Strong leadership, planning, and mentoring abilities
Skilled in troubleshooting, pressure testing, and corrosion mitigation
High proficiency in using hand tools, power tools, welding equipment
Strong safety culture and risk assessment capabilities
Effective communication with cross-functional teams