Plumber/Pipefitter at Joint Apprenticeship & Training Committee of Steamfitters #353

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipPaid Training

at Joint Apprenticeship & Training Committee of Steamfitters #353 in Peoria, IL

About This Program

The Joint Apprenticeship & Training Committee of Steamfitters #353 sponsors this registered Plumber/Pipefitter apprenticeship program based in Peoria, IL. This employer-sponsored program provides a structured pathway into the plumbing and pipefitting trade for individuals looking to build a skilled career while earning a paycheck from day one.

The program runs for five years and includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training alongside 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work alongside experienced tradespeople learning pipe installation, system layout, pressure testing, blueprint reading, and the mechanics of water supply, drainage, and steam systems. Classroom instruction reinforces applied skills with theory, safety practices, and code compliance.

Upon completing the program, apprentices are prepared to work as journey-level plumbers and pipefitters across residential, commercial, and industrial settings. The plumbing and pipefitting trade offers strong long-term earning potential and consistent demand, making this a solid foundation for a lasting career in the skilled trades.

Wage & Training

Journeyman Wage

$30

BLS 2023

OJT Hours

8,000

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

RTI Hours

576

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

Duration

5 years

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

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.

Trade School vs. Apprenticeship for Plumber

Apprenticeship

Cost$0 (earn while you learn)
Duration5 years
Starting wage$15.00/hr
Journeyman wage$30.46/hr
CredentialJourneyman card

Trade School

Cost$5,000–$20,000+
Duration6–24 months
Starting wageEntry-level
ExperienceHands-on labs
CredentialCertificate / diploma

Licensing in Illinois

Plumber/Pipefitters in Illinois are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Illinois Department of Public Health.

View full Illinoislicensing requirements →

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