Plumber/Pipefitter at United Association (UA), Pipefitters, Local 274

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipUnionPaid Training

at United Association (UA), Pipefitters, Local 274 in Parsippany, NJ

About This Program

United Association (UA) Pipefitters Local 274 sponsors this JATC-affiliated registered apprenticeship in Parsippany, NJ. As part of the United Association, Local 274 provides union-backed training that prepares apprentices for skilled work in industrial and commercial pipefitting. Apprentices earn wages throughout the five-year program, with pay advancing as they gain experience and complete each stage of training.

The program totals 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction delivered through the JATC. Apprentices develop expertise in industrial piping systems, HVAC and mechanical systems, welding, steam and process piping, and high-pressure systems. Classroom instruction covers pipefitting theory, technical drawings, code compliance, welding certifications, and safety standards applicable to New Jersey commercial and industrial environments.

Graduates earn journey-level status within UA Local 274 and are qualified for employment on major construction, industrial, and mechanical projects throughout the region. Union membership through the UA provides access to competitive wages, health benefits, a pension, and opportunities for continued skills training.

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.

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

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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