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Apprentice Steamfitter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Owner-Operator Mindset The Mechanical Apprentice should be a Plumber, Steamfitter, Pipe Fitter, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Fitter or Pipe Fitter Welder who has been engaged at the trade for ...

Owner-Operator Mindset The Mechanical Apprentice should be a Plumber, Steamfitter, Pipe Fitter, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Fitter or Pipe Fitter Welder who has been engaged at the trade for ...

The Mechanical Apprentice should be a Plumber, Steamfitter, Pipe Fitter, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Fitter or Pipe Fitter Welder who has been engaged at the trade for at least one (1) years.

Owner-Operator Mindset The Mechanical Apprentice should be a Plumber, Steamfitter, Pipe Fitter, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Fitter or Pipe Fitter Welder who has been engaged at the trade for ...

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 Aug 14, 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 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,806 per year, or $22 per hour.

Pipefitter/Steamfitter

Western Michigan University

Kalamazoo, MI • On-site

$40.45/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 27 days ago


Western Michigan University rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

485th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Details
Posting Summary
College
VP Business And Finance-DIV
Executive Area
VP Business And Finance
Department
FacilMgmt-Maintenance Service
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
S1614P
Job Type
Full Time, Regular
Pay Type
Nonexempt/Hourly
Pay Grade
ST4
Campus Location
WMU-Kalamazoo - Main Campus
Salary Range
$40.45 per hour plus generous benefits.
Number of Vacancies
1
General Summary
Provides highly skilled craft labor, working with tools to install, repair, replace and perform preventive maintenance for all elements of the University's heat and hot water distribution system.
Major Duties
  • Installs, repairs and maintains all piping and devices required for the delivery of steam and return of condensate for heating and domestic use, including air separators, expansion tanks, domestic hot water heaters, valves, strainers and traps.
  • Inspects and traces piping; cuts or breaks existing fittings and removes damaged and/or deteriorated segments of piping; threads new pipe under 4" in diameter to receive new fittings; and installs new fittings to reconnect replacement pipe under 4" in diameter or welds replacement piping over 4" in diameter to existing sound piping material.
  • Installs, repairs and replaces underground pipes, pipes located in vaults and steam tunnels, and pipes concealed in floors, walls and ceilings.
  • Bleeds hydronic heating systems to remove excess air and correct water flow.
  • Removes and replaces heat vent unit coils with the assistance of 2-3 other tradespeople.
  • Repairs heating elements and wall-mounted convectors and changes building relief valves.
  • Provides information required to update building and systems drawings to accurately reflect current status and, as assigned, may assist in the technical training of an apprentice.
  • Organizes assigned work so as to minimize materials and manhours required for proper completion of work, and instructs others in the operation of and preventive maintenance for all related tools and equipment.
  • This position performs additional duties as requested by supervisory personnel.

Minimum Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent from an accredited institution.
  • Ability to read and comprehend written instructions and safety regulations regarding the performance of job duties, and must have sufficient writing and mathematical skills to prepare estimates and supply requisitions.
  • Completion of a registered apprenticeship program, or an established, certified training program recognized by the University and/or written verification of a minimum of five (5) years experience at the journeyperson level in the pipefitter trade.
  • Possess documented welding experience in a commercial application.
  • Possession of a valid Michigan driver's license.
  • Ability to perform the essential functions of the job and use the tools of the trade.
  • Ability to complete a physical examination administered by the employer's designated physician.

Desired Qualifications
  • State of Michigan Plumbers license.

Special Instructions to Applicants
Bid Procedures:
All University employees represented by AFSCME Local 1668, and non-AFSCME regular and temporary University employees, who have the present ability or required qualifications to satisfactorily perform the required work, may exercise bidding privileges on this position.
  • Current AFSCME employees must complete the on-line WMU - AFSCME (bid) Sheet only.
  • Non-AFSCME University employees must submit an on-line WMU - Internal Application only.
  • Temporary University employees must submit an on-line WMU - Application only.

Additional Position Information
  • Effective 07/01/2026, the ST4 rate of pay is $41.46/hr.
  • Western Michigan University offers generous benefits to its employees including health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, retirement, and tuition discount for the employee and tuition remission for eligible dependents. To access information about the specific benefits available for this position, go to: https://wmich.edu/hr/enrollment-afscme
  • Above is a summary of the description for the position of Pipefitter/Steamfitter. A complete description for this position may be reviewed upon request in the department of Human Resources, Room 1300, Seibert Administration Building or online at: https://wmich.edu/hr/descriptions-afscme
  • This is a first (1st) shift position. The regular work hours for this position are 7:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. The regular work days are Monday through Friday, with Saturday and Sunday off.

Physical requirements and working conditions
  • When working in vaults, confined spaces and tunnels, the incumbent uses confined space air quality monitoring meters to monitor for the presence of toxic gases.
  • Must wear MIOSHA approved safety shoes at all times and must wear a hard hat, gloves and safety glasses as required by MIOSHA rules.
  • Must wear a respirator when working in vaults, tunnels and other confined spaces.
  • A face shield, leather vest and MIOSHA approved leather gloves are required when using welding equipment.
  • Must wear no loose-fitting clothing which might become entangled in equipment or machinery, posing a hazard to incumbent's safety.

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