Plumber/Pipefitter at Plumbers & Pipefitters, UA Local 322, JATC
at Plumbers & Pipefitters, UA Local 322, JATC in Hammonton, NJ
About This Program
Plumbers & Pipefitters UA Local 322 JATC sponsors this registered union apprenticeship program in Hammonton, NJ. Affiliated with the United Association, this JATC program delivers structured, union-quality training that prepares apprentices for long-term careers in the plumbing and pipefitting trade. Apprentices are paid throughout the program, with wages that typically increase as they progress through the apprenticeship.
The program runs for five years, combining 8,000 hours of on-the-job training with 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work alongside experienced journeymen on job sites, gaining proficiency in pipe installation, plumbing fixtures, gas systems, and industrial piping applications. Classroom instruction provided through the JATC covers plumbing and pipefitting theory, blueprint reading, code compliance, and workplace safety.
Graduates achieve journey-level status within UA Local 322, qualifying them for employment with union contractors throughout New Jersey and the broader region. Union membership provides access to negotiated wages, health benefits, and retirement contributions, making this a strong long-term career investment.
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 New Jersey
Plumber/Pipefitters in New Jersey are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by New Jersey State Board of Examiners of Master Plumbers.
View full New Jerseylicensing requirements →Reviews
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