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Pipe foreman vs carpenter

The differences between pipe foremen and carpenters can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. Additionally, a pipe foreman has an average salary of $49,468, which is higher than the $41,748 average annual salary of a carpenter.

The top three skills for a pipe foreman include hand tools, OSHA and ladders. The most important skills for a carpenter are hand tools, ladders, and install windows.

Pipe foreman vs carpenter overview

Pipe ForemanCarpenter
Yearly salary$49,468$41,748
Hourly rate$23.78$20.07
Growth rate2%2%
Number of jobs7,9245,862
Job satisfaction-4.86
Most common degreeHigh School Diploma, 51%High School Diploma, 42%
Average age4242
Years of experience-12

What does a pipe foreman do?

A pipe foreman oversees the daily operations of piping projects, from planning to execution, ensuring everything runs smoothly and efficiently. They manage different teams, supervise the installation and maintenance of pipes, prepare and process documentation, set objectives and guidelines, delegate tasks and schedules among staff, liaise with external parties such as vendors and suppliers, and maintain an active communication line with clients or representatives. Moreover, a pipe foreman monitors all activities while implementing the company's safety standards and policies for a safe and efficient workflow.

What does a carpenter do?

A carpenter is a skilled worker responsible for different areas of construction. Carpenters perform fabrication from raw materials. They use tools to create a successful finished product on their client's request. Carpenters must be able to multi-task, resolve any possible complications, strictly follow safety standards, and ensure that the project adheres to protocols without compromising quality and accuracy of work. Since carpentry is physical labor, carpenters are expected to be physically fit to accomplish various maintenance and production tasks.

Pipe foreman vs carpenter salary

Pipe foremen and carpenters have different pay scales, as shown below.

Pipe ForemanCarpenter
Average salary$49,468$41,748
Salary rangeBetween $38,000 And $64,000Between $31,000 And $54,000
Highest paying City-New York, NY
Highest paying state-New Jersey
Best paying company-Argonne National Laboratory
Best paying industry-Construction

Differences between pipe foreman and carpenter education

There are a few differences between a pipe foreman and a carpenter in terms of educational background:

Pipe ForemanCarpenter
Most common degreeHigh School Diploma, 51%High School Diploma, 42%
Most common majorPrecision Metal WorkingBusiness
Most common college--

Pipe foreman vs carpenter demographics

Here are the differences between pipe foremen' and carpenters' demographics:

Pipe ForemanCarpenter
Average age4242
Gender ratioMale, 95.9% Female, 4.1%Male, 95.7% Female, 4.3%
Race ratioBlack or African American, 9.4% Unknown, 4.2% Hispanic or Latino, 18.6% Asian, 1.9% White, 64.9% American Indian and Alaska Native, 1.1%Black or African American, 7.1% Unknown, 4.7% Hispanic or Latino, 23.3% Asian, 1.6% White, 62.2% American Indian and Alaska Native, 1.1%
LGBT Percentage2%2%

Differences between pipe foreman and carpenter duties and responsibilities

Pipe foreman example responsibilities.

  • Use hoists and cranes to lift work pieces to machines and manage work with little supervision.
  • Maintain a safe work environment ensuring that workers follow safety rules in accordance with client and OSHA.
  • Install HVAC systems, building control systems.
  • Form cast iron and PVC roof drains, sewer drains.
  • Set up equipment for welds with SMAW, TIG and brazing processes.
  • Work in full alkaline gear while doing demo and installation contaminate lines.
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Carpenter example responsibilities.

  • Remodel homes, roofing, electric, plumbing, framework, Sheetrock, finishing work.
  • Hoist tar and roofing materials to roofs, using ropes and pulleys, or carry materials up ladders.
  • Follow establish safety rules and regulations as specified by OSHA and maintain a safe and clean work environment.
  • Perform new construction, concrete foundations, layout framing, formwork, roofing, site preparation through fine finish.
  • Perform work including, fiberglass framing, concrete form, scaffolding, erecting metal stud walls, drywall and general carpentry
  • General labor practices, carpentry, masonry, cement pouring, hardwood floors, cleanup, and other duties as assigned.
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Pipe foreman vs carpenter skills

Common pipe foreman skills
  • Hand Tools, 14%
  • OSHA, 12%
  • Ladders, 7%
  • Construction Sites, 5%
  • Pipe Systems, 5%
  • Storm Sewer, 5%
Common carpenter skills
  • Hand Tools, 17%
  • Ladders, 8%
  • Install Windows, 7%
  • Roofing, 7%
  • Safety Rules, 6%
  • Scaffolding, 6%

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