Maritime pipeworker
Level 3 · AdvancedEngineering and manufacturing 3.5 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
A maritime pipeworker fabricates, installs, and tests pipework systems that carry fuel, water, steam, hydraulics, and other fluids aboard ships and offshore structures. At level 3, apprentices learn to work in steel, copper, and stainless steel pipe to classification society standards in a shipbuilding or ship repair environment. The role leads to senior pipeworker, pipe-fitting foreman, or marine engineering inspector positions.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Pipework materials and their selection based on the fluid, pressure, and temperature requirements
Pipe fabrication techniques including cutting, bending, and flanging
How to read and extract information from piping and instrumentation diagrams
Welding techniques for pipework including TIG, MIG, and manual metal arc where applicable
Pressure testing procedures for hydrostatic and pneumatic system acceptance
Classification society rules and regulations governing ship piping systems
Safe working practices including hot work permits, confined spaces, and pressure hazards
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Fabricate pipe spools by cutting, bending, and fitting according to isometric drawings
Install piping systems aboard vessels routing through bulkheads and deck penetrations
Weld pipe joints or assist welding teams in preparing and fitting spools for welding
Carry out hydrostatic and pneumatic pressure tests on completed pipe systems
Fit valves, flanges, expansion pieces, and flexible hose connections
Inspect completed pipework for defects and prepare systems for class survey
Maintain records of materials, test results, and traceability documentation
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 3 (Advanced) - roughly A-level level. Employers usually look for some GCSEs (often English & maths around grade 4/C) or a Level 2 apprenticeship first. English & maths can sometimes be finished during training.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 4/5 (Higher) apprenticeship, or straight into the role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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