SOC 47-2151
Pipelayers
Risk Score
โ ๏ธ54/100
Elevated
US Employment
๐ฅ33,580
Total workers
Median Wage
๐ฐ$49K
$37K โ $81K
Projected Growth
๐-4.1%
2023-2033 (BLS)
GenAI Exposure
๐ค27/100
Low exposure
๐ก Pipelayers face a risk score of 54/100 โ 10 points above the national average of 44. With only 27/100 GenAI exposure, most core tasks remain resistant to current AI capabilities. See our methodology โ
๐ก Workers in this field earn $49K ($2K above the national median). The 3 recommended career transitions all maintain competitive wages while reducing automation exposure. Explore transition paths โ
๐ AI Impact Analysis
With a risk score of 54/100, Pipelayers faces moderate automation pressure. While tasks like ai project scheduling and resource optimization are increasingly handled by AI, the role retains significant human elements. The 33,580 workers in this occupation should focus on strengthening skills in navigating unpredictable and unstructured job sites and adapting to unique building configurations on-site to stay ahead. The role will likely evolve rather than disappear.
Will AI Replace Pipelayers?
Read our full analysis with verdict, risk factors, safe tasks, and career transition paths โ
โ ๏ธ Top Risk Factors
AI project scheduling and resource optimization
Autonomous heavy equipment operation
Drone-based site surveying and inspection
Robotic bricklaying and prefabrication automation
๐ก๏ธ Tasks Safe from Automation
Navigating unpredictable and unstructured job sites
Adapting to unique building configurations on-site
Client-facing consultation on custom project needs
Physical work in confined or elevated spaces
๐ Task Automation Breakdown
Based on O*NET task analysis and GenAI exposure scoring. Shows the estimated proportion of this occupation's core tasks that are automatable by current AI, augmented by AI tools, or require essential human skills.
๐ O*NET Task Profile
Install or use instruments such as lasers, grade rods, or transit levels.
Cut pipes to required lengths.
Connect pipe pieces and seal joints, using welding equipment, cement, or glue.
Cover pipes with earth or other materials.
Install or repair sanitary or stormwater sewer structures or pipe systems.
๐ป Technology Skills
Spreadsheet software
Office suite software
Word processing software
๐ Key Knowledge Areas
Building and Construction
Mechanical
Mathematics
Public Safety and Security
Design
๐ vs National Average
National avg: $46K
National avg: 44/100
National avg: 38/100
National avg: 3.7%
๐ Career Transition Paths
| Occupation | Risk | Wage | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineers | 20 | $106K | 53% |
| Extraction Workers | 29 | $56K | 80% |
| Electricians | 32 | $62K | 74% |