Sprinkler Fitter at United Association (UA), Sprinkler Fitters Local 696, JAC

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipUnionPaid Training

at United Association (UA), Sprinkler Fitters Local 696, JAC in Millburn, NJ

About This Program

The United Association (UA) Sprinkler Fitters Local 696 JAC sponsors a union Sprinkler Fitter apprenticeship in Millburn, NJ. Backed by the UA and administered through a Joint Apprenticeship Committee, this JATC program offers comprehensive paid training in fire sprinkler system installation and service in one of the country's most active construction markets.

Apprentices complete a five-year program comprising 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Field work covers pipe installation, fitting, system testing, and maintenance across various building types. Classroom topics include fire protection codes, hydraulics, system design, and safety regulations under NFPA standards.

Graduates earn journeyman Sprinkler Fitter status, a highly regarded credential within the UA and the broader fire protection industry. Union membership brings progressive wage increases, benefit access, and portable credentials recognized across the region and nationally through the United Association network.

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 Sprinkler Fitter 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

Sprinkler Fitters 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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