Company Overview
Upchurch is a rapidly growing, full-service building engineering company providing mechanical, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical services across the southeastern United States. Founded in 1970 and headquartered in Horn Lake, MS, Upchurch has grown through both organic expansion and strategic acquisitions, establishing a strong reputation for quality, reliability, and service excellence. We offer end-to-end solutions-from design and installation to ongoing maintenance and emergency support-helping clients maximize building performance, energy efficiency, and equipment lifespan.
About the role
The Plumbing/Pipefitter Assistant supports journeyman plumbers and pipefitters on commercial/industrial projects. You'll help stage materials, measure/cut/assemble piping, install hangers and fixtures, maintain a safe, clean work area, and assist with testing and start-up. This is a hands-on field role with strong career growth to Journeyman.
What you'll do
- Assist installations: Support layout, measuring, cutting, threading, grooving, soldering/brazing, and assembling copper, steel, PEX, CPVC and related systems.
- Material handling: Receive, inventory, stage, and move pipe, valves, fittings, fixtures, and equipment; keep gang boxes stocked.
- Hangers & supports: Install strut/hanger systems to spec and code; set fixtures and equipment with proper alignment.
- Drawings & specs: Read basic plans, elevations, and isometric drawings; mark up field changes and as-builts.
- Tools & equipment: Safely use hand/power tools, threaders, groovers, core drills, and lifts (scissor/boom with training).
- Quality & testing: Assist with hydrostatic/air tests, flushing, disinfection, and documentation.
- Housekeeping & safety: Maintain clean work areas, follow JHAs/toolbox talks, lockout/tagout, and PPE requirements.
- Collaboration: Coordinate with foreman, GC, and other trades to meet schedule and sequencing.
What you'll bring
Minimum
- High school diploma/GED.
- 0-2+ years in plumbing, pipefitting, mechanical, or closely related construction (trade school or strong mechanical aptitude welcome).
- Basic hand/power tool skills; can read a tape, level, and basic drawings.
- Reliable transportation and valid driver's license.
- Able to lift 50-75 lbs, climb ladders, work at heights/in confined spaces, and work indoors/outdoors in varying conditions.
- Willing to work overtime/weekends as projects require.
- Must pass pre-employment background check and drug screen; complete I-9 verification.
Preferred
- Trade school/NCCER Core or Plumbing/Pipefitting Level 1.
- Experience with soldering/brazing, threading/grooving, fixture setting, and hangers.
- Forklift/scissor-lift card; OSHA-10 (or willingness to earn within first 30 days).
- Basic familiarity with BIM coordination/field layout a plus.
Work environment & schedule
- Full-time; typical Mon-Fri, with overtime as needed.
- Field-based role traveling to active job sites; occasional night/weekend shifts to meet schedule windows.
Benefits:
- Competitive salary based on experience.
- Health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Paid time off and holiday pay.
- Opportunities for professional development and certification assistance.
Equal Employment Opportunity:
Upchurch Companies provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.