Plumber/Pipefitter at NH Plumbers & Pipefitters Local Union 131

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipUnionPaid Training

at NH Plumbers & Pipefitters Local Union 131 in Hooksett, NH

About This Program

The NH Plumbers & Pipefitters Local Union 131 sponsors this JATC-affiliated Plumber/Pipefitter apprenticeship in Hooksett, NH. As a union program, apprentices benefit from collective bargaining agreements, structured wage progression, and the support of an established trade organization. Apprentices are paid throughout the program, earning a living wage while developing professional skills.

This five-year program includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction delivered through the Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee. Apprentices learn pipe fitting, welding basics, steam and hydronic systems, blueprint reading, and plumbing code compliance, alongside safety training and industry best practices.

Completing this JATC program earns apprentices journey-level status within the union, qualifying them for higher-wage employment on commercial and industrial projects across New Hampshire. Union membership also provides access to benefits, continued training opportunities, and a network of signatory employers.

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.

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

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 New Hampshire

Plumber/Pipefitters in New Hampshire are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by New Hampshire Office of Professional Licensure and Certification, Fuel Gas Fitting and Plumbers Board.

View full New Hampshirelicensing requirements →

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