Plumber/Pipefitter at South Jersey Council of Master Plumbers

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipPaid Training

at South Jersey Council of Master Plumbers in Elmer, NJ

About This Program

The South Jersey Council of Master Plumbers sponsors this registered Plumber/Pipefitter apprenticeship in Elmer, NJ. Representing professional master plumbers across southern New Jersey, this non-union council program provides apprentices with training that reflects current trade standards and regional industry needs. Apprentices earn wages from the beginning of their training.

The program runs for five years and combines 8,000 hours of on-the-job training with 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices receive hands-on training in pipe installation, fixtures, water supply systems, drainage and venting, and gas piping. Classroom coursework addresses New Jersey plumbing codes, occupational safety, and the technical principles that support professional plumbing practice.

Upon completion, apprentices are qualified for journey-level plumbing employment throughout southern New Jersey and the broader region. Training through a recognized master plumbers' council supports the credentials and professional standing needed to pursue state licensure and build a lasting career in the trade.

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.

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.

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 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 →

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