Pipeline construction has significantly improved the lifestyle of people around the world. Pipeline networks supply us with many kinds of petroleum products; protect subsurface utility systems; provide domestic water; and carry away sewage waste.
Without pipeline construction, Americans would not be able to enjoy the luxury of indoor plumbing, cable TV, central heat and air, or being able to pull up to a gas station and fill their automobile with gasoline.
Additionally, pipelines carry untreated sewage and storm water runoff away from our homes and communities. Sewage is swept away through sewer pipes and taken to treatment facilities. Storm drainage systems help to eliminate excess water so that roadways and parking lots don't flood during periods of heavy rainfall.
Pipeline construction is one of the few industries that is expanding instead of shrinking. According to the California Economic Workforce Development Program, the pipeline industry is planning to add almost 800,000 new jobs through 2012.
There are many kinds of career opportunities in the pipeline industry. Positions include: general labor, design engineer, heavy equipment operator, mechanic, construction diver, oil pipeline walker, pipeline welder, gas pipe layer, pipe fitter, foreman, and superintendent. There are also several positions that involve office work and accounting.
Workers that enter into gas and oil pipeline construction are required to obtain substantial training. This field presents dangerous risks that necessitate employees to be informed about HAZMAT, EPA regulations, and workplace safety.
Energy pipeline construction oftentimes requires employees to work in remote areas for an extended time period. Working environments encompass mountains, deserts, frozen tundra, rivers, and oceans and can be extremely physical work.
Other types of work include wet utility and dry utility pipeline construction. Wet utility encompasses jobs that pertain to installing pipes that convey liquid materials such as sewer and water pipes, storm water drainage systems, and fireline. Dry utility construction pertains to pipes used to convey non-gaseous materials or to safeguard underground utility systems.
Southern California has one of the highest numbers of pipeline construction companies. Additional U.S. job markets include Alaska, Texas, and Louisiana. Jobs in these states include entry level positions; laborers and engineers for Alaskan pipeline; and welders for offshore oil rigs.
The International market is rapidly expanding with numerous job opportunities in Asia, India, Brazil, and the United Arab Emirates; particularly Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
Within the U.S. there is more than 200,000 miles of pipeline used to convey petroleum products. Furthermore, there are millions of miles of sewer and water pipes, dry utility pipelines, storm drainage systems, and fireline. Installing and maintaining the ever-expanding pipeline networks necessitates a massive number of employees.
Overseeing the expansive pipeline network involves employing a highly trained team of project managers, design engineers, and pipeline construction contractors. The type of education and skills required depends on the job position. Many entry level jobs only require a GED or high school diploma, while others require a college degree.
Pipeline construction is not for everyone, but people that enjoy physical work and engineering, will find this industry offers many opportunities for lifelong careers.
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