Plumber/Pipefitter at Boston Plumbers Local #12
at Boston Plumbers Local #12 in Dorchester, MA
About This Program
Boston Plumbers Local #12, based in Dorchester, Massachusetts, administers a union JATC plumber/pipefitter apprenticeship serving the greater Boston metropolitan area. This well-established program trains apprentices under the standards of the United Association, combining hands-on job site work with structured classroom education. Apprentices earn wages throughout the program.
The apprenticeship is five years long and includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices learn to install and service potable water systems, drain and waste lines, gas piping, and fire protection systems on a range of commercial and residential projects. Coursework covers local and state plumbing codes, safety practices, pipe materials, and system layout and design.
Graduating apprentices become journey-level plumbers and full members of Local #12, one of Boston's most recognized trade unions. Union membership offers negotiated wages, health and retirement benefits, and access to a large network of signatory contractors across eastern Massachusetts.
Wage & Training
Journeyman Wage
$30
OJT Hours
8,000
RTI Hours
576
Duration
5 years
Wage data is the national median for this occupation (BLS, May 2023), not specific to this program.
Plumber Career Outlook
National Median
$30.46/hr
~$63,356.8/yr
Apprentice Start
$15/hr
Earn while you learn
Job Outlook
Plumber employment is projected to grow steadily, driven by new construction, building renovation, and the need to replace aging water infrastructure. Water efficiency regulations and green building standards are creating additional demand for skilled plumbers. The trade consistently ranks among the hardest positions for employers to fill, indicating strong job security.
What to Expect as a Plumber/Pipefitter Apprentice
Duration
5 years of combined on-the-job training and classroom instruction
On-the-Job Training
~32 hours/week of hands-on work under journeyman supervision (8,000 total hours)
Classroom Instruction
576 hours of related technical instruction (~115 hours/year)
Paid Training
You earn a wage from day one, starting at a percentage of the journeyman rate and increasing as you progress
Time-based program: You'll progress through the program based on completing a set number of hours in both on-the-job training and classroom instruction.
This is a union-affiliated program. Union apprenticeships typically offer strong benefits packages, pension contributions, and structured career advancement through the local hall.
Trade School vs. Apprenticeship for Plumber
Apprenticeship
Trade School
Licensing in Massachusetts
Plumber/Pipefitters in Massachusetts are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters.
View full Massachusettslicensing requirements →Reviews
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