Pipe Support Engineer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of industrial and infrastructure development, the importance of Pipe Support Engineers has never been more pronounced.

As construction projects become more complex, the demand for skilled professionals who can design, analyze, and optimize our industrial support systems is on the rise.

But what’s truly expected from a Pipe Support Engineer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the day-to-day tasks of a Pipe Support Engineer,

You’ve landed at the right spot.

Today, we present a customizable Pipe Support Engineer job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve right into it.

Pipe Support Engineer Duties and Responsibilities

Pipe Support Engineers work in various industries where piping systems are used.

They are responsible for the design, evaluation, and maintenance of pipe supporting structures.

They are also tasked with the calculation of stress on the pipes to ensure safety and longevity of the pipe systems.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Designing pipe support systems based on the engineering principles and industry standards
• Analyzing the stress on pipes due to factors such as weight, pressure, temperature, and seismic activities
• Collaborating with design engineers to develop detailed piping system designs
• Reviewing and approving contractor designs, drawings, and calculations for pipe supports
• Inspecting installations and operations of pipe systems and structures to ensure they meet design specifications and safety standards
• Preparing technical reports for pipe support systems including design basis, material specifications, and installation procedures
• Using software tools to simulate stress and other operational conditions to identify potential problems
• Recommend upgrades and modifications to improve the performance and extend the life of pipe support systems
• Ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.

 

Pipe Support Engineer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled Pipe Support Engineer to join our team.

This role requires developing, designing, and testing pipe support systems for various facilities.

Pipe Support Engineer responsibilities include analyzing project specifications, preparing engineering calculations, and providing technical guidance to field personnel.

The ideal candidate must be familiar with industry standards, possess excellent problem-solving skills and have a keen eye for detail.

Ultimately, the role of the Pipe Support Engineer is to ensure the integrity, safety, and functionality of pipe support systems according to design specifications and industry standards.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop and design pipe support systems based on project requirements
• Perform engineering calculations to ensure the safety and effectiveness of pipe support systems
• Inspect and evaluate existing pipe support systems for improvements
• Coordinate with project teams and provide technical guidance to field personnel
• Prepare and maintain detailed engineering documentation
• Comply with industry standards and safety regulations
• Resolve technical issues and recommend suitable solutions
• Assist in the training of junior engineers

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Pipe Support Engineer or similar role
• Knowledge of engineering design principles and pipe support systems
• Excellent problem-solving skills
• Proficiency in CAD software and other engineering tools
• Familiarity with industry standards and safety regulations
• Ability to work in a team and lead projects
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• BSc degree in Mechanical Engineering or relevant field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Pipe Support Engineer
• Work Environment: Office and onsite visits. Travel may be required for project inspections and meetings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Engineering Manager or Project Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $85,000 minimum to $115,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Pipe Support Engineer Do?

Pipe Support Engineers work within the oil and gas, water treatment, or construction industries.

They are specialized mechanical engineers whose primary responsibility is to design, analyze, and maintain pipe systems.

Their job involves working closely with other engineers and designers to develop and implement support structures for pipes that carry various materials such as water, gas, and oil.

The support structures they design must meet certain strength, durability, and safety standards.

Pipe Support Engineers also carry out inspections and assessments on existing pipe support structures.

They identify any potential weaknesses, risks, or areas of improvement, and then design and implement solutions to address these issues.

They use software and other engineering tools to model and simulate pipe systems and support structures.

This helps them to ensure that the structures can withstand various stresses such as pressure, weight, and temperature changes.

In addition, Pipe Support Engineers are responsible for creating technical documentation related to pipe support systems.

This includes design drawings, specifications, and reports.

They are also involved in project management, which includes scheduling, budgeting, and ensuring that pipe support projects are completed on time and within budget.

They may liaise with clients, contractors, and other stakeholders to ensure that project requirements are met.

Lastly, Pipe Support Engineers must keep up-to-date with advancements in pipe support technology and engineering principles.

This enables them to create more efficient and reliable pipe support systems.

 

Pipe Support Engineer Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Pipe Support Engineer should have skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Technical knowledge and understanding of pipe support design, materials, and manufacturing processes.
• Analytical and problem-solving skills to inspect and assess the condition of pipe supports, identify potential issues, and determine necessary repairs or replacements.
• Ability to use specialized software and tools for pipe support engineering tasks such as CAD for designing and FEA for stress analysis.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills to manage multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in all tasks.
• Communication skills to effectively convey technical information to team members, clients, and other stakeholders, as well as to understand and fulfill customer needs and specifications.
• Interpersonal skills to collaborate with a team of Engineers, Designers, and Technicians, coordinating efforts to complete projects in a timely and effective manner.
• Knowledge of applicable standards and regulations in the industry to ensure compliance in all engineering practices.
• A commitment to ongoing learning and development to stay updated with advances in pipe support engineering technology and practices.

 

Pipe Support Engineer Experience Requirements

Entry-level Pipe Support Engineers usually have 1 to 2 years of experience, often through an internship or part-time role in mechanical or civil engineering.

These professionals can also gain hands-on experience in roles such as Piping Designer, CAD Technician or other relevant engineering-related roles.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often enhance their technical skills and understanding of pipe support systems, materials, and stress analysis in roles like Piping Engineer or Structural Engineer.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have some project management experience and could have worked on large-scale construction or industrial projects.

They may be ready for a senior or team-lead position, overseeing the design and implementation of pipe support systems.

In addition to the above, familiarity with standards and codes such as ASME, ASTM, and API, proficiency in software like CAESAR II, AutoCAD, and knowledge of different types of pipe support (like spring hangers, snubbers, and sway braces) is valuable.

Many employers also prefer a degree in mechanical, civil or structural engineering.

 

Pipe Support Engineer Education and Training Requirements

Pipe Support Engineers typically need a bachelor’s degree in mechanical or civil engineering.

They must have a strong understanding of pipe systems, structural engineering, and the ability to design complex systems using CAD software.

Some positions may require Pipe Support Engineers to have a master’s degree or additional training in a specialized area such as fluid dynamics, materials science, or structural analysis.

There are also certification courses available that focus on pipe stress analysis, pipe support design, and other relevant subjects.

These courses can help a Pipe Support Engineer demonstrate their expertise in this field, and may enhance their employment opportunities.

Practical experience, such as internships or co-op programs, is also highly desirable as it provides hands-on understanding of the intricacies of pipe systems.

Furthermore, many states require Pipe Support Engineers to be licensed Professional Engineers (PEs).

This usually involves earning a four-year degree from an accredited engineering program, gaining relevant work experience, and passing the state’s licensure exam.

Continuing education is important in this field due to the evolution of technology and techniques.

Hence, it is often encouraged to attend seminars, workshops and training programs to stay current with the latest developments.

 

Pipe Support Engineer Salary Expectations

A Pipe Support Engineer can expect to earn an average salary of $74,000 (USD) per year.

This amount can fluctuate based on factors such as the individual’s level of experience, the size and sector of the employing company, and the cost of living in the geographical location.

 

Pipe Support Engineer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a pipe support engineer need?

Pipe support engineers should possess strong problem-solving skills to design and evaluate piping systems.

They should have knowledge in stress analysis and finite element analysis.

Proficiency in CAD software is often required.

Communication and teamwork skills are essential as they work in a collaborative environment with other engineers and professionals.

 

Do pipe support engineers need a degree?

Yes, pipe support engineers usually need a bachelor’s degree in engineering, specifically in mechanical or civil engineering.

Some positions may require a master’s degree or Professional Engineer (PE) license.

Practical experience, such as internships or cooperative engineering programs, can be helpful.

 

What should you look for in a pipe support engineer resume?

Look for a degree in an engineering field and experience in pipe stress analysis and design.

Familiarity with industry codes and standards, such as ASME and ANSI, is important.

Proficiency in software like AutoCAD and CAESAR II is often required.

Any certifications such as a PE license can also add value.

 

What qualities make a good pipe support engineer?

A good pipe support engineer should have a keen eye for detail to spot potential issues in piping systems.

They should be analytical thinkers with excellent problem-solving skills.

Good communication and teamwork skills are also important as they often work in a team environment.

The ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines is a critical quality.

 

What are the daily duties of a pipe support engineer?

On a typical day, a pipe support engineer might review piping system designs, conduct stress analyses, and prepare technical reports.

They may also collaborate with other engineers on project planning and implementation.

Occasionally, they may visit job sites to oversee installation, conduct inspections, and resolve any problems.

Regular meetings with project managers and clients may also be part of their daily duties.

 

Is it difficult to hire pipe support engineers?

Hiring pipe support engineers can be challenging due to the specific set of skills and experience required for this role.

The demand for these professionals can also outpace the supply, particularly in regions where infrastructure development is high.

Therefore, hiring efforts may need to include attractive compensation packages and opportunities for career development.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the intricate world of what it truly means to be a pipe support engineer.

Surprised?

It’s not just about designing pipe support systems.

It’s about engineering robust foundations, one support system at a time.

With our comprehensive pipe support engineer job description template and real-life examples, you’re well-equipped to forge ahead.

But don’t stop just yet!

Go beyond the surface with our job description generator. It’s your key to creating detailed job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every pipe support system is a part of a larger, resilient infrastructure.

Let’s construct that future. Together.