Plumber/Pipefitter at Jac Washington Dc Steamfitters - Local 602
at Jac Washington Dc Steamfitters - Local 602 in Springfield, VA
About This Program
JAC Washington DC Steamfitters Local 602 in Springfield, Virginia administers a five-year union Plumber/Pipefitter apprenticeship through its Joint Apprenticeship Committee. This JATC program serves the Washington, DC metro area — one of the most active commercial and government construction markets in the nation — with paid, union-backed training for aspiring steamfitters and pipefitters.
The program includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices develop expertise in steam systems, HVAC piping, industrial and commercial process piping, pipe welding, instrumentation, blueprint reading, and safety compliance — skills highly relevant to the large-scale building and infrastructure projects throughout the DC region.
Graduation from Local 602's program confers journey-level status within the United Association, a widely respected credential in the steamfitting trade. Union membership provides negotiated wages, comprehensive benefits, and long-term career support in one of the country's most dynamic construction markets.
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 Virginia
Plumber/Pipefitters in Virginia are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Virginia Board for Contractors, Tradesman Program.
View full Virginialicensing requirements →Reviews
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