Plumber/Pipefitter at Sa Area Plumbers & Pipe Fitters JATC
at Sa Area Plumbers & Pipe Fitters JATC in San Antonio, TX
About This Program
The SA Area Plumbers & Pipe Fitters JATC in San Antonio, Texas offers a five-year union Plumber/Pipefitter apprenticeship through its Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee. This JATC program serves one of the largest and fastest-growing cities in Texas, providing apprentices with paid training on major commercial and industrial plumbing and pipefitting projects.
The program consists of 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices build skills in water distribution, medical gas, steam systems, industrial process piping, pipe welding, code compliance, and safety standards — progressing through structured skill levels that align with Texas licensing requirements.
Completion of the program earns apprentices journey-level status within the United Association. Union membership in the San Antonio area provides access to negotiated wages, comprehensive benefits, and continued training opportunities throughout a career in the mechanical construction industry.
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 Texas
Plumber/Pipefitters in Texas are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners.
View full Texaslicensing requirements →Reviews
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