Pipe Fusion Technician

With more than 55 years of experience and over 450 employees, Preston Companies is a leading construction company comprised of Preston Pipelines, Preston Electric, and Dirt Market. Together, our teams deliver critical utility, electrical, and soil management services that support communities throughout Northern California and Nevada. 
 
We believe great projects start with great people. That's why we invest in our employees through opportunities for career growth, professional development, and hands-on experience working on complex, high-impact projects. Whether you're just starting your career or bringing years of industry expertise, you'll be part of a team that values safety, accountability, camaraderie, collaboration, and continuous improvement. 
 
Our commitment to People, a Preston core value, speaks for itself. Preston Companies has been recognized as a Bay Area Best Place to Work for six consecutive years (2021–2026) by the San Francisco Business Times and Silicon Valley Business Journal. Based entirely on employee feedback, this recognition reflects the culture our teams have built together. Our people are the foundation for our success—each individual brings unique ideas and new opportunities that support our collective growth. Together, we're excited to discover what possibilities may lie ahead! 

Position Overview 

Preston Pipelines is seeking a Pipe Fusion Technician to perform pipe joining operations for underground wet and dry utility projects. This role operates specialized equipment, including McElroy fusion machinery, to install MDPE, HDPE and thermoplastic piping systems. While more experienced or certified fusion technicians are preferred, we are open to further training motivated candidates with less experience, strong mechanical aptitude and a drive to learn. 

Qualifications, Skills & Core Competencies 

1. Requirements & Core Qualifications 

• Experience: 1–3+ years of hands-on experience in HDPE pipe fusion and underground utility construction (wet/dry utilities, water, sewer, gas, or conduit). 

• Technical Equipment Knowledge: Proven experience operating McElroy, Ipex, Tega, manual and hydraulic fusion machinery (Butt fusion & electrofusion) and general mechanical job site tools. 

• Specifications: Ability to follow project plans, ASTM & manufacturer specs, safety guidelines, and field instructions. 

• Licensing & Physical Demands: Clean Valid Driver’s License required. (1 point or less) Must be able to perform heavy physical labor (lifting, bending, climbing) in active, outdoor construction environments under varying weather conditions. 

2. Industry Certifications & Preferred Qualifications (Plus) 

• Certifications: Current McElroy, ASTM F2620, or manufacturer-certified fusion qualification; OSHA 10/30; PG&E connection, Operator Qualification (OQ) or utility owner equivalent; Clean CDL required (1point or less) 

• Advanced Equipment & Data Logging: Experience operating McElroy Data Logger systems to record joint metrics (temperatures, pressures, heat/cool-down duration) per project requirements. Large diameter hydraulic machine operation. 

• Specialized Utility Tasks: Hands-on experience with Electro fusion re-rounding, de-beading, squeezing, purging, tapping, mechanical fittings, or pipe locating. 

• Union Labor: Union membership, prior union project experience, or willingness to work under applicable project labor agreements (PLA). 

3. Technical Mastery & Quality Control 

• Weld Quality & Surface Prep: Deep understanding of HDPE material preparation, surface cleanliness, and field conditions affecting weld integrity (e.g., contamination, misalignments, heating/cooling times, and hold pressure). 

• Documentation & Safety: Meticulous attention to detail in inspecting joints, setting up machinery in active trenches/confined spaces, and logging job site data. 

• Teamwork & Work Ethic: Reliable, self-motivated team player with strong communication skills and a commitment to maintaining safety and quality in a fast-paced environment. 

Compensation & Benefits 

We support our team members with competitive pay, ongoing growth, and a robust, company-funded union benefits package. 

Pay & Professional Development 

• Hourly Rate: $26.00 – $41.00 per hour, based on experience 

• Career Growth: Access to paid training, trade certifications, and advancement opportunities 

Union Benefits Package 

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance 

• Paid Time Off: Company-paid vacation benefits administered through the union 

• Retirement: Union retirement savings plans to help build your future 

Location 

This position is onsite based in Milpitas, CA. Some travel within the Bay Area and Sacramento is expected. 

Equal Employment Opportunity 
Preston Companies is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. 

If this role sounds like a great fit, we'd love to hear from you!