Roofer at (PHL) Roofers JAC (LU 30)

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipUnionPaid Training

at (PHL) Roofers JAC (LU 30) in Philadelphia, PA

About This Program

Roofers JAC Local Union 30 sponsors a registered union apprenticeship for roofers in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This Joint Apprenticeship Committee program connects apprentices with union contractors across the Philadelphia metro area, offering paid training and union representation throughout the three-year program. Apprentices earn competitive wages that increase with each year of the apprenticeship.

The program includes 4,000 hours of on-the-job training and 432 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work on commercial and industrial roofing projects in one of the country's major construction markets, learning roofing system installation, waterproofing, flashing, insulation, and safety practices. Classroom instruction covers trade materials, building codes, blueprint reading, calculations, and OSHA standards.

Completing the Roofers JAC LU 30 program earns graduates journeyman roofer credentials and full union membership. Philadelphia's large and active construction market provides excellent long-term employment prospects, and union membership ensures access to negotiated wages, health benefits, and pension contributions throughout a career in the trade.

Wage & Training

Journeyman Wage

$22

BLS 2023

OJT Hours

4,000

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

RTI Hours

432

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

Duration

3 years

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

Wage data is the national median for this occupation (BLS, May 2023), not specific to this program.

Roofer Career Outlook

National Median

$22.34/hr

~$46,467.2/yr

Apprentice Start

$14/hr

Earn while you learn

Job Outlook

Roofer employment is projected to grow, driven by ongoing roof replacement needs and new construction. Severe weather events and aging building stock create consistent demand for roof repair and replacement. Commercial roofing, particularly energy-efficient and green roof systems, is a growing specialization.

What to Expect as a Roofer Apprentice

Duration

3 years of combined on-the-job training and classroom instruction

On-the-Job Training

~27 hours/week of hands-on work under journeyman supervision (4,000 total hours)

Classroom Instruction

432 hours of related technical instruction (~144 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 Roofer

Apprenticeship

Cost$0 (earn while you learn)
Duration3 years
Starting wage$14.00/hr
Journeyman wage$22.34/hr
CredentialJourneyman card

Trade School

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

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