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Apprentice Steamfitter Jobs in Racine, WI (NOW HIRING)

mkecounty

Heating Equipment Mechanic

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$48.89/hr

Completed steamfitter or refrigeration apprenticeship with 3 years journeyman experience, or Maintenance tradesman program with 5 years experience and 3 years journeyman experience (At least 5 years ...

All JobsApprentice Steamfitter JobsApprentice Steamfitter Jobs in Racine, WI

Apprentice Steamfitter information

See Racine, WI salary details

$11

$20

$34

How much do apprentice steamfitter jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice steamfitter in Racine, WI is $20.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $22.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an apprentice steamfitter, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Steamfitter, you need a basic understanding of mechanical systems, math skills, good physical stamina, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand and power tools, pipe threading machines, and safety certifications like OSHA 10 are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, willingness to learn, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, precise installation and maintenance of piping systems, contributing to successful project outcomes and career advancement.

What does an apprentice steamfitter do?

An apprentice steamfitter assists experienced steamfitters in installing, maintaining, and repairing piping systems that carry steam, water, and other industrial fluids. Their work often involves reading blueprints, measuring and cutting pipes, and learning to use specialized tools under supervision. Apprentices receive on-the-job training while also attending classroom instruction to understand safety protocols, codes, and trade techniques. Over time, they gain the skills required to become a journeyman steamfitter.

How hard is it to become a steamfitter apprentice?

Becoming a steamfitter apprentice typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, passing an aptitude test, and meeting age requirements. The process involves completing an apprenticeship program that combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction, which usually lasts 3 to 4 years. Developing skills in pipefitting, safety procedures, and understanding blueprints is essential for success in this role.

What does a steamfitter apprentice do?

A steamfitter apprentice assists experienced steamfitters in installing, repairing, and maintaining piping systems that carry liquids or gases, such as steam, water, or air. They learn to read blueprints, use hand and power tools, and follow safety protocols while gaining practical skills on job sites. The apprenticeship typically involves on-the-job training combined with classroom instruction and may require relevant certifications or licenses.

What types of projects and environments can an apprentice steamfitter expect to work in during their training?

As an Apprentice Steamfitter, you will typically gain hands-on experience in a variety of settings, such as commercial buildings, factories, power plants, and sometimes large residential projects. Your daily tasks may involve assisting with installing, maintaining, and repairing piping systems that carry steam, water, and other industrial fluids. Apprentices often work closely with experienced journeymen and may rotate between job sites to learn different aspects of the trade. This exposure helps you build practical skills, adapt to diverse work environments, and better understand the complexity of steamfitting systems.

What is the difference between Apprentice Steamfitter vs Journeyman Steamfitter?

AspectApprentice SteamfitterJourneyman Steamfitter
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma and enrollment in a training programCompleted apprenticeship, licensed or certified
Work EnvironmentAssists with installation, maintenance, and repair under supervisionPerforms independent installation, troubleshooting, and repairs
Industry UsageEntry-level role in plumbing and pipefitting industriesSkilled worker with full responsibilities in commercial and industrial settings

The main difference between an Apprentice Steamfitter and a Journeyman Steamfitter is experience and certification. Apprentices are in training and work under supervision, while Journeymen are fully qualified and operate independently. Both roles are essential in the piping industry, with apprentices gaining skills to become licensed Journeymen.

What cities near Racine, WI are hiring for Apprentice Steamfitter jobs?

Cities near Racine, WI with the most Apprentice Steamfitter job openings:

Apprentice Steamfitter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Steamfitter job openings in Racine, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,951 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Zoo Steamfitter - Temperature Control

mkecounty

Milwaukee, WI • On-site

$48.89/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Zoo Steamfitter - Temperature Control

Milwaukee County Zoo

Hourly Pay: $48.89

Closing Date: August 12th, 2026 or upon receipt of the first 50 applications

 

Job Summary: The Zoo Steamfitter is responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, repairing, installing, and supporting HVAC, refrigeration, heating, cooling, ventilation, and temperature control systems across the Zoo campus.

The position supports specialized environmental needs for animal care, public facilities, food storage, staff areas, and daily Zoo operations. This role responds to equipment failures and emergencies during and outside of normal working hours and must make independent decisions to restore safe and reliable facility conditions. The position is regularly relied upon for emergency response and after-hours support due to the Zoo’s 24/7 animal care and public facility operations.

 

Essential Responsibilities:

 

  • HVAC, Refrigeration, and Temperature Control Maintenance: Maintain, troubleshoot, repair, and install HVAC, refrigeration, heating, cooling, ventilation, freezer, refrigerator, ice machine, chiller, boiler, pump, and related mechanical systems throughout the Zoo. Respond to failures that may impact animal care, public safety, food storage, staff safety, or facility operations.
  • Animal Life-Support and Critical Environmental Systems: Maintain and respond to temperature-sensitive animal care systems, including exhibits, holding areas, quarantine spaces, and life-critical equipment. Ensure required temperatures, ventilation, humidity, and cooling/heating needs are maintained for animals that may not be able to be moved during equipment failures.
  • Emergency Response and On-Call Support: Provide after-hours emergency support for HVAC, refrigeration, heating, cooling, and temperature control issues. Respond during nights, weekends, holidays, weather events, equipment failures, and animal care emergencies. Make independent decisions to protect animal health, public safety, and facility operations.
  • Building Automation, Controls, and System Monitoring: Maintain, troubleshoot, adjust, and repair HVAC and refrigeration controls, BAS/Metasys systems, sensors, thermostats, alarms, control valves, actuators, and related control equipment. Monitor system performance and make adjustments to maintain proper environmental conditions.
  • Contractor Coordination, Project Review, and Technical Support: Coordinate outside contractors, obtain quotes, review proposed work, explain Zoo-specific needs, assist with inspections, review blueprints and construction documents, and verify completed work meets operational and animal care requirements.
  • Parts, Inventory, Estimates, and Documentation: Estimate materials and labor, source parts and equipment, maintain repair inventory, document repairs, track equipment history, and maintain records for critical HVAC, refrigeration, and control systems.

Minimum Requirements:

 

  • Authorized to work in Wisconsin.
  • Possession of a valid Wisconsin Driver’s License, able to be maintained throughout employment.
  • Possession of a High School Diploma or GED Equivalent.
  • At least Five (5) years as a Steamfitter
  • At least one (1) year of experience maintaining and repairing control systems.
  • Basic knowledge of all related computer and software applications, such as word processing and spreadsheets.
  • Intermediate knowledge of Metasys.
  • Willing to learn Maintain X within six (6) months of starting.
  • Possession of a Refrigeration License.
  • Possession of Master Steam Fitter License
  • Able to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 lbs.
  • Willing and able to work irregular, unpredictable, or long hours when necessary.
  • Completion of Steam fitting apprenticeship 

NOTE:This original application is open to permanent residents of the state of Wisconsin at the time of application. In accordance with Section 11, Rule 3 of the Civil Service Rules a non-competitive examination will be held for this position. The non-competitive examination will consist of criteria deemed appropriate by the Director of Human Resources.

 

APPLICANTS MUST POSSESS MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AT TIME OF FILING APPLICATION

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