Pipefitter / Steamfitter
UA Local 455
Fabricate and install high-pressure piping systems for industrial plants, refineries, and large commercial buildings.
Starting Pay
$29.55/hr
1st year apprentice
Journeyman Pay
$59.09/hr
~$118k/year
Apprenticeship
5 years
earn while you learn
Total Package
$160,000+
wages + benefits
Overview
The Work
Pipefitters and steamfitters from UA Local 455 design, fabricate, install, and maintain high-pressure piping systems that carry steam, hot water, gases, chemicals, and fuel. Unlike plumbers who focus on sanitary systems, pipefitters work on the mechanical systems inside industrial facilities — boiler rooms, refineries, power plants, hospitals, and large HVAC systems. The work demands a deep understanding of metallurgy, welding, and blueprint reading.
Day One as an Apprentice
On your first day as a pipefitting apprentice, you'll typically be assigned to a large commercial or industrial job site alongside a journeyman. You'll start by learning the materials — types of pipe, fittings, and hangers — and practicing basic measurements and cuts. Welding certification is a major milestone you'll work toward throughout your apprenticeship.
This trade is
Pay Scale
Pay increases each year of the apprenticeship as a percentage of the journeyman rate. All rates are hourly; estimated annual at 2,000 hrs/year.
| Year | Stage | Hourly | Annual Est. |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1st Year Apprentice | $29.55/hr | ~$59k |
| 2 | 2nd Year Apprentice | $35.45/hr | ~$71k |
| 3 | 3rd Year Apprentice | $41.36/hr | ~$83k |
| 4 | 4th Year Apprentice | $47.27/hr | ~$95k |
| 5 | 5th Year Apprentice | $53.18/hr | ~$106k |
| 6 | Journeyman Pipefitter | $59.09/hr | ~$118k |
Benefits Package
Excellent benefits package including family health and dental insurance, a defined-benefit pension, annuity plan, and paid holidays. Many pipefitters earn additional income during industrial shutdowns at premium overtime rates.
Apprenticeship Program
5 years
Program Length
900 hrs
Classroom Hours
8,000 hrs
On-the-Job Hours
How to Apply
Applications are submitted through the Local 455 Training Center. You'll need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver's license, and may need to demonstrate basic mechanical aptitude. Contact the hall or visit pipefitters455.org for current application periods.
Application Windows
Application periods vary — contact the hall directly. Industrial shutdowns and large project awards often drive hiring.
Requirements
General Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Valid driver's license
- 18 years of age or older
- Pass drug and background screening
- Strong math skills — algebra and basic trigonometry helpful
Physical Requirements
- Heavy lifting — pipe and fittings can be very heavy
- Work at heights on scaffolding and elevated platforms
- Work in industrial environments — heat, noise, confined spaces
- Ability to weld in various positions (overhead, vertical)
Tools You'll Need
- Pipe wrenches, channel locks, and specialty pipe tools
- Welding hood and personal welding tools (after certification)
- Measuring tools — tape measure, squares, levels
- Personal protective equipment: hard hat, safety glasses, gloves
Physical Demand
4/5
Technical Level
4/5
Union Hall
Market Outlook
High Demand
Pipefitters and steamfitters are grouped with plumbers in BLS SOC 47-2152. BLS projects 5% national growth 2024–2034 (faster than average) and MN DEED projects 6% growth 2022–2032, driven by industrial, power generation, and commercial construction work.
Next Steps
Ready to learn more or apply? Here's what to do right now.
Wage source: Journeyman base hourly rate is sourced from the Minnesota Department of Labor & Industry Commercial Prevailing Wage Schedule (effective 2025-12-22), which is derived from the prevailing collective bargaining agreement for St. Paul Metro & 22-County Jurisdiction. Total package (with fringe benefits) is higher than the base rate shown. Apprentice progression rates are calculated as standard percentages of journeyman scale and may differ slightly from the actual CBA. This page is not affiliated with UA Local 455 or any union. Verify all information — including current pay rates, application windows, and requirements — directly with UA Local 455.