Plumber/Pipefitter at Eastern Idaho Plumbers & Pipefitters JATC
at Eastern Idaho Plumbers & Pipefitters JATC in Pocatello, ID
About This Program
Eastern Idaho Plumbers & Pipefitters JATC offers a registered union apprenticeship program based in Pocatello, ID. This JATC-sponsored program combines union-backed field training with classroom instruction to develop skilled plumbers and pipefitters for eastern Idaho's construction and industrial sectors. Apprentices are paid throughout the entire training period.
The program spans five years and requires 8,000 hours of on-the-job training plus 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work under experienced journeymen on a variety of commercial and industrial projects, building skills in pipe system installation, welding, and mechanical maintenance. Classroom coursework covers Idaho plumbing codes, safety standards, pipe materials, and system troubleshooting.
Program graduates earn journeyman-level credentials as plumbers/pipefitters, qualifying them for a wide range of employment opportunities across Idaho. Union affiliation through the JATC provides lasting support, benefits, and career resources following graduation.
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.
How to Apply
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 Idaho
Plumber/Pipefitters in Idaho are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Idaho State Plumbing Board.
View full Idaholicensing requirements →Reviews
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