Plumber/Pipefitter at Plumbers' Joint Apprenticeship Committee Local 130, UA
at Plumbers' Joint Apprenticeship Committee Local 130, UA in Chicago, IL
About This Program
The Plumbers' Joint Apprenticeship Committee Local 130, UA administers a registered union apprenticeship program in Chicago, IL. One of the most established plumbing apprenticeship programs in the Midwest, Local 130 offers JATC-backed training that combines paid field experience with rigorous classroom instruction for those entering the trade in the Chicago metropolitan area.
The five-year program includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices train on large-scale commercial, institutional, and industrial projects across Chicago, developing advanced skills in piping systems, welding, mechanical installation, and plumbing code compliance. Classroom instruction covers Illinois and city plumbing codes, safety regulations, pipefitting math, and technical drawing.
Graduates earn journeyman status and United Association membership, connecting them to one of the most active construction labor markets in the country. Local 130's long-standing reputation supports strong employment prospects and union-scale compensation for program completers.
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 Illinois
Plumber/Pipefitters in Illinois are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Illinois Department of Public Health.
View full Illinoislicensing requirements →Reviews
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