Best Plumbing Apprenticeship Programs 2025: UA & Non-Union Options
Plumbing is one of the most financially rewarding and stable trades in America. Master plumbers regularly earn $80,000–$120,000 per year, and in high-cost cities like New York, San Francisco, and Chicago, union plumbers can earn over $100,000 in total compensation including benefits. The country faces a severe shortage of licensed plumbers, with millions of aging baby boomer plumbers retiring and not enough new entrants to replace them.
An apprenticeship is the premier pathway into plumbing. You earn while you learn, get comprehensive training, and emerge fully licensed — without student debt.
The Main Plumbing Apprenticeship Sponsors
United Association (UA) — Union Plumbing Apprenticeships
The United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry (UA) is the primary union for plumbers, pipefitters, sprinkler fitters, and HVAC workers. UA-sponsored apprenticeships are 5-year programs with:
- 2,000 hours of on-the-job training per year (10,000 total)
- 246 hours of classroom instruction per year in codes, theory, and safety
- Starting wages of $18–$28/hour depending on local; scales up each year
- Journeyman wages of $35–$60/hour plus excellent benefits (healthcare, pension)
- No tuition — the UA funds all classroom training
Apply at ua.org/apprenticeship or contact your nearest UA local. See our detailed UA Plumbers & Pipefitters apprenticeship guide.
PHCC (Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors) Non-Union Apprenticeships
The PHCC Educational Foundation sponsors apprenticeship programs for non-union plumbing contractors. These programs are also 4–5 years and meet state licensing requirements in most states.
- Website: phccweb.org
- Strong employer network in suburban and rural markets
- Good option if no UA local is nearby
Top UA Local Plumbing Apprenticeship Programs
UA Local 1 — New York City
Location: New York, NY
Program: Plumber Apprenticeship
Duration: 5 years
Journeyman Wage: $60–$75/hour including benefits
Website: ualocal1.org
UA Local 1 is one of the most prestigious plumbing unions in the world. NYC plumbers are among the highest-paid in the country. The competition for apprenticeship spots is intense, but successful graduates enjoy exceptional earnings and job security.
UA Local 230 — San Jose, CA
Location: San Jose, CA
Program: Plumber/Pipefitter Apprenticeship
Duration: 5 years
Journeyman Wage: $58–$70/hour including benefits
Website: ua230.org
UA Local 230 serves Silicon Valley and the South Bay, one of the most expensive and in-demand construction markets in the country. The tech industry's constant expansion creates ongoing demand for plumbing and pipefitting work.
UA Local 130 — Chicago
Location: Chicago, IL
Program: Plumber Apprenticeship
Duration: 5 years
Journeyman Wage: $50–$62/hour including benefits
Website: ualocal130.org
UA Local 130 has one of the best apprenticeship training facilities in the Midwest. Chicago's plumbing code is among the most stringent in the country, making Chicago-trained plumbers highly respected nationwide.
UA Local 38 — San Francisco
Location: San Francisco, CA
Program: Plumber/Steamfitter Apprenticeship
Duration: 5 years
Journeyman Wage: $65–$80/hour including benefits
Website: ualocal38.org
UA Local 38 serves one of the most expensive construction markets in the country. San Francisco's complex urban environment and strict building codes create demand for highly skilled plumbers year-round.
How to Apply for a Plumbing Apprenticeship
- Find your local UA: Visit ua.org/locals to find the UA local serving your area
- Check application requirements: Typically age 18+, high school diploma or GED, valid driver's license, ability to pass a physical
- Submit your application: Many UA locals hold open application periods 1–2 times per year; some have waitlists
- Pass the entrance exam: Aptitude test covers math (algebra) and reading comprehension
- Complete drug testing and background check
- Attend orientation and begin training
Plumbing Career Progression & Salary
- 1st-year apprentice: $18–$26/hour
- 4th-year apprentice: $28–$40/hour
- Journeyman Plumber: $35–$65/hour; $72,000–$100,000+/year
- Master Plumber: Requires passing master's exam; can run jobs independently; $90,000–$130,000+/year
- Plumbing Contractor: Business owner; unlimited earning potential
See our plumber career guide for full salary projections and licensing requirements by state.
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