Plumber
UA Local 15
Install and service water supply, drainage, and gas systems in homes, high-rises, and hospitals.
Starting Pay
$29.77/hr
1st year apprentice
Journeyman Pay
$59.54/hr
~$119k/year
Apprenticeship
5 years
earn while you learn
Total Package
$160,000+
wages + benefits
Overview
The Work
Plumbers from UA Local 15 install and maintain the pipes, fixtures, and systems that carry water, gas, and waste through buildings of all types. The work includes new construction rough-in (running pipe before the walls close), trim-out (installing fixtures), and service work (diagnosing and fixing problems). You'll work in everything from single-family homes to large commercial buildings and hospitals across the Twin Cities.
Day One as an Apprentice
Day one you'll likely be on a new construction site with a journeyman plumber. You'll start by learning job-site layout, pipe-hanging basics, and how to read isometric drawings. Expect to dig, carry pipe, and hand tools to your journeyman while observing every technique you can.
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 | $29.77/hr | ~$60k |
| 2 | 2nd Year Apprentice | $35.72/hr | ~$71k |
| 3 | 3rd Year Apprentice | $41.68/hr | ~$83k |
| 4 | 4th Year Apprentice | $47.63/hr | ~$95k |
| 5 | 5th Year Apprentice | $53.59/hr | ~$107k |
| 6 | Journeyman Plumber | $59.54/hr | ~$119k |
Benefits Package
Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage through the Local 15 Health & Welfare Fund. Pension and annuity contributions from every hour worked. Paid holidays and vacation after qualifying period.
Apprenticeship Program
5 years
Program Length
810 hrs
Classroom Hours
8,000 hrs
On-the-Job Hours
How to Apply
Submit an application through the UA Local 15 website or in person at the union hall. Requirements include a high school diploma or GED, a valid MN driver's license, and passing a drug test. Applicants are ranked by math score and interview performance.
Application Windows
Applications are typically accepted in spring. Contact the hall at (651) 645-5241 or visit ua15.org for current openings.
Requirements
General Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Valid Minnesota driver's license
- Minimum 18 years of age
- Pass a drug screening test
- Basic math skills (fractions, decimals, basic geometry)
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift 50+ lbs regularly
- Comfortable working in crawl spaces, basements, and attics
- Ability to stand, kneel, and crouch for extended periods
- Work in wet and dirty conditions
Tools You'll Need
- Pipe wrenches (various sizes)
- Tubing cutters and deburring tools
- Soldering equipment
- Basic hand tools — hammer, tape measure, levels
Physical Demand
3/5
Technical Level
4/5
Union Hall
Market Outlook
High Demand
MN DEED projects 6% growth for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters (SOC 47-2152) 2022–2032, with about 1,030 annual openings statewide. BLS projects 5% national growth 2024–2034 (faster than average), driven by new construction and replacement demand.
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 Twin Cities Metro & St. Cloud Area. 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 15 or any union. Verify all information — including current pay rates, application windows, and requirements — directly with UA Local 15.