JOB DESCRIPTION

Plumbers and Pipefitters are craftsmen who install pipe systems that carry water, steam air or other liquids or gases needed for sanitation, industrial production or other uses. They also alter and repair existing pipe systems and install plumbing fixtures, appliances and heating and refrigeration units. Although plumbing and pipefitting are sometimes considered to be a single trade, there is a distinction.

Plumbers install pipes for water, gas sewage and drainage systems, especially those connected to public utility systems. They also install sanitary facilities such as lavatories, toilets, bathtubs, bathroom fixtures, showers, kitchen fixtures, drinking fountains, and laundry equipment.

Pipefitters are craftsmen who assemble, install and maintain pipes to carry water, steam, compressed air, gases and fluids needed for processing, manufacturing, heating, cooling or refrigeration, especially those in industrial and commercial buildings.

APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM

Apprenticeship in the pipe trades is a highly selective program and acceptance for training depends on the applicants' qualifications and the demand for workers in the trade. Members of a joint apprenticeship committee do the actual selection and supervision of the apprenticeship program in the pipetrades. This committee consists of persons with considerable experience representing both management and labor.

Applications are accepted until late May.  Interviews are held in June and July, with placements made in August.  For an application, please visit our website www.ualocal6.org or contact us at the following address:

Plumbers & Pipefitters Local No. 6

1470 Industrial Dr.
PO Box 6375
Rochester, MN 55903
Phone: 507-288-4172

Contact: Keith Bowe

The typical apprenticeship program is five years of intensive technical training, consisting of at least 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and a minimum of 1,080 hours of related training in the classroom. Processes related to mathematics, drafting, the use of tools and maintenance, general shop and job practices, including safety, are stressed during the apprenticeship, both on the job and in the classroom.

Apprentices receive a graduated wage rate during their term of training, beginning at 50% of Journey level and progressing to 80% during their final year of training. They also receive such benefits as health and welfare insurance, life insurance, and pensions.

Through the apprenticeship process, the apprentice attains all the technical skills needed to be a skilled journeyperson. In order to upgrade abilities and expand knowledge and skills, specialized training and additional certification programs are available for those who are already at journey level.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Must be 18 years of age.
• Must have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED).

In order to get a head start; take courses in general math, algebra, and geometry. General science, computer courses, mechanical drawing and other shop courses. After high school, courses in math, science, welding, drafting and/or other trade related subjects are helpful.

HIRING AND SELECTION PROCEDURES

Members of the joint apprenticeship committee conduct the actual selection and supervision of the apprenticeship program. After submitting an application, the candidate will go through an interviewing process with the committee. Qualified applicants are ranked according to score. The committee has the responsibility of placing the qualified applicants as job openings occur,

Transportation Requirements

Must have own transportation to and from Job site.

Wages

Apprenticeship Scale

Journeyman Wage Allocation

Fringe Benefit