Plumber/Pipefitter at Steamfitters Local 602 JATC
at Steamfitters Local 602 JATC in Landover, MD
About This Program
Steamfitters Local 602 JATC, based in Landover, Maryland, administers a union plumber/pipefitter apprenticeship for the greater Washington, D.C. area. This JATC program is jointly managed by employers and the union to maintain consistent training standards and prepare apprentices for the demands of commercial and industrial pipefitting. Apprentices earn wages throughout the training period.
The five-year apprenticeship includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices develop expertise in steamfitting and pipefitting for HVAC, process piping, high-pressure steam systems, and building mechanical systems. Technical coursework covers welding, code compliance, pipe layout, safety regulations, and the operation of complex mechanical systems.
Upon completion, graduates achieve journey-level status and union membership in Local 602, positioning them for long-term careers in one of the nation's most active construction and federal contracting markets. Union benefits include negotiated wages, healthcare, and retirement plan participation.
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 Maryland
Plumber/Pipefitters in Maryland are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Maryland Department of Labor, State Board of Plumbing.
View full Marylandlicensing requirements →Reviews
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