Apprentice Information
About the Pipefitters Trade
The steamfitter/pipefitter is a tradesperson with the knowledge and ability to layout, fabricate, assemble, install, maintain and repair piping systems that transport all types of fluids, slurries and gas in the residential, commercial and industrial sectors. This is the only trade specializing in the planning, design and installation of low and high-pressure steam systems. Their work is diverse, including such fields as oil refineries, paper mills, nuclear power plants, manufacturing plants and the automotive industry.
Description of Work
The systems that the steamfitter/pipefitter may work on includes some of the highest pressure and temperature applications, requiring a thorough knowledge of scientific principles to complete this work safely. Welders work in many types of environments, anywhere metals and alloys are joined. They install, maintain and repair all types of piping systems, as well as join structural steel brackets and supports for such systems. Welders study blueprints, drawings and specifications for the job and must measure, cut and weld, using various welding methods and tools.
Join the Apprentice Program
Overview
The apprenticeship program lasts five years, with a minimum of 1,230 hours spent in classroom training and 8,500 hours of on the job training. Apprentices are eligible to work on-the-job five days a week. Welding & Pipefitting apprentices attend day classes for a total of five weeks per year. HVAC apprentices attend classes two nights a week, from September thru May.
Requirements
Applicants must be 18 years old, have a high school diploma, and live within Local #353 jurisdiction at the time of application. Applicants must be physically able to perform the work of the trade. Upon invitation and before formal acceptance into the program, applicants must pass a physical exam, background check and chemical/substance abuse tests.
Application Process
Applications for the Apprenticeship Program will be accepted continually beginning May 1, 2019 and are available here (Apprentice Program Application), or at the Union Hall. Application packets must be submitted in person at the Steamfitters Union Hall during normal business hours. Application packets must be completed and returned with copies of the following documents, which will be kept on file (incomplete application packets will not be accepted):
Required Documents
- Certified birth certificate
Valid driver’s license (original must also be presented) - High school diploma or official GED test results
- DD-214 Military transfer or discharge papers, if applicable
- Applicants are encouraged to bring copies of transcripts for additional schooling
Other Requirements
An aptitude test will be administered at a later date that applicants will be informed of by letter. A $25.00 application fee in the form of exact cash or check (payable to Steamfitters Local #353) will be due on the day of testing. A completed application packet must have been submitted to the Steamfitters Union Hall prior to the test date.
Wage & Contact Info
WAGE INFORMATION: Apprentices start at 40 percent of scale. Journeyman base wage as of May 1, 2020 is $39.60 per hour plus benefits of $23.77 per hour.
CONTACT: Steamfitters Local 353 Training Coordinator; 6304 W. Development Dr., Peoria, IL 61604;
Phone: (309) 633-1353
Start Your New Career with Steamfitter 353
- Continuing education and support
- Hands on experience in state of the art facility
- Job placement opportunities with local companies