Plumber/Pipefitter at SW ID Plumbers & PipefItters JATC
at SW ID Plumbers & PipefItters JATC in Meridian, ID
About This Program
SW ID Plumbers & Pipefitters JATC sponsors a registered union apprenticeship program in Meridian, ID. This Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee program serves the southwestern Idaho region, providing paid, structured training for individuals ready to pursue a career in the plumbing and pipefitting trades.
The five-year program includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work alongside journeymen on commercial and residential projects throughout the Treasure Valley, developing skills in pipe installation, system testing, welding, and mechanical maintenance. Classroom instruction addresses Idaho plumbing codes, safety protocols, and system design.
Graduates earn journeyman status as plumbers/pipefitters upon completion. Union membership through the JATC connects graduates to competitive compensation, benefits, and employment opportunities across southwestern Idaho's rapidly growing construction market.
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 Idaho
Plumber/Pipefitters in Idaho are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Idaho State Plumbing Board.
View full Idaholicensing requirements →Reviews
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