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Apprentice Steamfitter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Completion of a recognized apprenticeship in refrigeration or steamfitter trades, OR Full journey level status in Plumbers and Pipe Fitters Union, OR Five years of experience in refrigeration and/or ...

HVAC Technician

Olympia, WA · On-site

$5.0K - $6.1K/mo

Completion of a recognized apprenticeship in refrigeration or steamfitter trades, OR * Full journey level status in Plumbers and Pipe Fitters Union, OR * Five years of experience in refrigeration and ...

Completion of a recognized apprenticeship as a plumber/pipefitter/steamfitter, OR full journey status as a plumber/pipefitter/steamfitter in a union, OR four years' applicable work experience.

Experience: * ​​​​​ Four years of full-time experience under a journey-level plumber and/or steamfitter which provided training equivalent to that given in an apprenticeship program

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Apprentice Steamfitter information

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$12

$22

$37

How much do apprentice steamfitter jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice steamfitter in the United States is $22.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $24.04 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 to get into pipe fitting with no experience?

To become an apprentice steamfitter, which involves pipe fitting, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Start by applying to apprenticeship programs through unions or contractors, which often require passing an aptitude test and having basic math skills. Gaining knowledge of tools, safety procedures, and gaining hands-on experience through entry-level positions can also help you enter the field.

What is the highest paying apprenticeship trade?

Steamfitter apprenticeships are among the higher-paying trades, with wages increasing as skills and experience grow. Generally, trades such as electrical, plumbing, and HVAC apprenticeships also offer competitive pay, especially in regions with high demand for skilled workers. The highest paying apprenticeships often depend on industry demand, geographic location, and certification levels.

Is 27 too old for an apprenticeship?

Apprentice steamfitters can start at any age, including 27, as apprenticeships are open to individuals of diverse backgrounds and experience levels. Age is not a barrier; what matters most are the required skills, physical ability, and commitment to learning the trade. Many apprentices begin later in life and successfully complete their training to become qualified steamfitters.

Is 25 too late to start an apprenticeship?

Starting an apprentice steamfitter at age 25 is not too late, as many apprenticeships accept individuals of various ages. Success depends on meeting the program's requirements, such as a high school diploma or equivalent, and being physically capable of performing the work. Age should not be a barrier to entering the trade if you are committed and meet the prerequisites.

Is 27 too old for an apprenticeship?

Steamfitter apprenticeships are open to individuals of various ages, and 27 is not considered too old to start. Many apprentices begin in their late teens or early twenties, but employers often value skills, commitment, and readiness to learn regardless of age. Age should not be a barrier to entering a trade like steamfitting, which involves learning to install and maintain piping systems and requires hands-on training and certifications.

How to get into pipe fitting with no experience?

To become a steamfitter apprentice with no experience, you should start by researching local apprenticeship programs that often require a high school diploma or equivalent. Gaining basic math skills, physical fitness, and familiarity with hand tools can help, and applying to apprenticeship programs or entry-level construction jobs provides on-the-job training and skill development essential for a career in pipe fitting.

How much does a first year apprentice pipefitter make?

A first-year steamfitter apprentice typically earns between $15 and $20 per hour, depending on the region and union agreements. Apprenticeship programs often include paid on-the-job training and classroom instruction, with wages increasing as skills and experience develop.

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 are hiring for Apprentice Steamfitter jobs? Cities with the most Apprentice Steamfitter job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Steamfitter jobs? The most popular types of Steamfitter jobs are:
What states have the most Apprentice Steamfitter jobs? States with the most job openings for Apprentice Steamfitter jobs include:
Infographic showing various Apprentice Steamfitter job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $45,806 per year, or $22 per hour.
Union Plumber Steamfitter - GE Aerospace Research (1st Shift)

Union Plumber Steamfitter - GE Aerospace Research (1st Shift)

General Electric Company

Niskayuna, NY

$40.31 - $46.97/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Job Description SummaryPosition Hours: This role follows a 9/80 schedule; Monday - Thursday hours are 7-4pm, every other Friday is an 8 hour shift, and off the next Friday. Overtime is uncapped.Job Description

Layout, design, install, assemble, fabricate, maintain, test and repair pipes and fittings of mechanical utility piping systems, chillers that

include hot water, chilled water, steam, compressed air, sewer, chemicals, fuel oil, gasses and other related systems following local and state codes. Read and understand system prints and schematics. In this role, you will be required to move and work in confined spaces, up and down ladders and to work from ladders, scaffolding and bucket truck platform. Travel to jobs over a 50+ acre campus with many hills and stairs.

Some but not all skills include:

Installs pipes and fixtures, such as sinks and toilets, for water, gas, steam, air, or other liquids

Installs supports for pipes, equipment, and fixtures prior to installation

Assembles fittings and valves for installation

Modifies length of pipes, fixtures, and other plumbing materials as needed for a building

Uses saws and pipe cutters as necessary

Installs heating and air-conditioning systems, including water heaters

Collaborates with contractors, construction workers, electricians, pipefitters, and steamfitters in installing and repairing plumbing

Tests plumbing systems for leaks and other problems

Analyses problem and identifies appropriate tools and materials for repair

Follows health and safety standards and complies with building codes

Uses a CMMS documenting the problem and summary of actions taken

Performs inspections of plumbing systems to identify and replace worn parts

Backflow Assembly Tester Certification

Qualifications / Requirements

AAS degree in Mechanical or Plant Utilities Technology or AOS degree in HVAC or Construction & Maintenance or High school diploma or GED

Journeyman Steamfitter License or Completion of 2 years of a Plumber/Steamfitter Apprentice Program (considered 3rd year apprentice) or 3 years work experience as a Plumber / Steamfitter in a Manufacturing Facility (with references) or Military Training Course in related field or Licensed NYS Plumber

Must be 18 years or older

Legal authorization to work in the U.S. is required. We will not sponsor individuals for employment visas, now or in the future, for this job opening.

You must submit your application for employment on the careers page at www.gecareers.com to be considered.

The hourly pay range for this position $40.31 - 46.97 USD per hour. The specific hourly rate offered to a candidate may be influenced by a variety of factors including the candidate's experience, their education, and the work location. This posting is expected to close on March 1st 2026.

Healthcare benefits include medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage; access to a Health Coach, a 24/7 nurse-based resource; and access to the Employee Assistance Program, providing 24/7 confidential assessment, counseling and referral services. Retirement benefits include the GE Retirement Savings Plan, a tax-advantaged 401(k) savings opportunity with company matching contributions and company retirement contributions, as well as access to Fidelity resources and planning consultants. Other benefits include tuition assistance, adoption assistance, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and paid time-off for vacation or illness.

General Electric Company, Ropcor, Inc., their successors, and in some cases their affiliates, each sponsor certain employee benefit plans or programs (i.e., is a "Sponsor"). Each Sponsor reserves the right to terminate, amend, suspend, replace, or modify its benefit plans and programs at any time and for any reason, in its sole discretion. No individual has a vested right to any benefit under a Sponsor's welfare benefit plan or program. This document does not create a contract of employment with any individual.

This role may encounter high risk or hazardous operations and/or include working shifts beyond a standard workweek. As such, a requirement of the role is to be at least 18 years of age by the time of joining.

Additional Information

GE Aerospace offers a great work environment, professional development, challenging careers, and competitive compensation. GE Aerospace is anEqual Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

GE Aerospace will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States for this opening. Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen (as applicable).

Relocation Assistance Provided: No