Plumbers Union Local 130 Taking Apprenticeship Applications

The Plumbers Joint Apprenticeship Committee, Local 130, will begin accepting applications for the plumbing apprenticeship program from Jan. 25 through Feb. 26.

Applications will be accepted in person only from 1 to 4 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, and from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, at the following Plumbers Local 130 locations:

• 1400 W. Washington Blvd., Chicago, 312-421-1028
• 2114 S. I-80 Frontage Road, Joliet, 815-725-0278
• 31855 N. U.S. Hwy 12, Volo, 815-759-5900

Required at the time of application:

• Candidates must be 18 years old, however, high school seniors age 17 may also apply with a valid student ID.
• High school diploma, sealed high school transcripts (must be official) or GED certificate;
• Valid driver’s license
• Birth certificate or U.S. passport;
• A $25 non-refundable application processing fee (money order and cashier’s check only), made payable to Plumbers J.A.C., Local 130. PLEASE NOTE: Cash, personal checks, debit or credit cards will NOT be accepted.
• Candidates can also purchase the test taking tip book for an additional $10; in which case, the money order or cashier’s check should be in the amount of $35.

A plumbers’ work consists of plan reading and safely, correctly and efficiently installing and maintaining plumbing systems. These plumbing systems include underground water supply, storm water, sewer drainage, fixture installation and waste and vent piping both inside and outside of buildings, residential and service plumbing.

Union plumbing apprentices start at approximately $16.01 per hour, with salary increases every six months. An apprenticeship lasts for five years. A plumber journeyman earns about $47.25 an hour, according to Local 130’s website.

The length of the apprenticeship program is five years. During the first three years, apprentices work on the job four days per week and attend one day of classroom instruction. During the fourth and fifth years, apprentices have on the job training five days per week and attend night school classes from September through June.

Read more about some of the functions of an apprentice plumber.