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Trades Apprentice Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Completion of applicable Metal Trades training, apprenticeship, or a minimum of five (5) years equivalent combination of education and relevant fabrication experience. * Previous experience in a ...

Installer, Remodeling Technician, Construction, Carpenter, Plumbing, Home Improvement, Bathroom Remodeling, General Contractor, Skilled Trades, Apprentice, Tile, Framing, Millwork, shower, tile ...

Installer, Remodeling Technician, Construction, Carpenter, Plumbing, Home Improvement, Bathroom Remodeling, General Contractor, Skilled Trades, Apprentice, Tile, Framing, Millwork, shower, tile ...

This is a fantastic opportunity to learn the trade hands-on alongside experienced electricians ... Willingness to enroll in a registered electrical apprenticeship program * Basic knowledge of hand ...

This is a fantastic opportunity to learn the trade hands-on alongside experienced electricians ... Willingness to enroll in a registered electrical apprenticeship program * Basic knowledge of hand ...

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Trades Apprentice information

What is a trades apprentice?

Trades apprentices are individuals who are learning a skilled trade through a combination of on-the-job training and classroom instruction. As apprentices, they work under the supervision of experienced tradespeople to develop practical skills in fields such as plumbing, electrical work, carpentry, or welding. Apprenticeship programs typically last between two to five years and lead to certification or licensure in the chosen trade. These programs are a great way to earn while you learn, providing both hands-on experience and technical knowledge.

What types of tasks and responsibilities can a trades apprentice expect during a typical week?

As a Trades Apprentice, you can expect to assist skilled tradespeople with a variety of hands-on tasks such as measuring materials, preparing tools, and performing basic repairs or installations. Your responsibilities will often include maintaining a clean and organized work area, following safety protocols, and learning to use specialized equipment under supervision. Apprentices also participate in on-the-job training and sometimes classroom instruction to build technical knowledge. Collaboration is key, as you'll regularly work alongside experienced mentors and other apprentices to complete projects efficiently.

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

To thrive as a Trades Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of safety procedures, manual dexterity, and a willingness to learn, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand and power tools, as well as compliance with OSHA safety standards or other relevant certifications, is typically required. Strong work ethic, reliability, and good communication skills make someone stand out in this position. These skills and qualities are important to ensure quality workmanship, maintain safety on the job site, and facilitate learning and progression to journeyman status.

What is the difference between Trades Apprentice vs Journeyman?

AspectTrades ApprenticeJourneyman
CredentialsApprenticeship program, often includes classroom and on-the-job trainingCompleted apprenticeship, often requires passing a certification exam
Work EnvironmentLearning phase, supervised work, gaining skillsSkilled worker, independent, responsible for tasks
Industry UsageEntry-level to mid-level training role in tradesLicensed or certified skilled worker in the trade

Trades Apprentices are in training, gaining skills through structured programs, while Journeymen are fully qualified workers with proven skills. Apprenticeship is a stepping stone to becoming a Journeyman, who can work independently and take on more complex tasks.

How to be a trades apprentice for a trade?

To become a trades apprentice, you typically need to apply through a local apprenticeship program or union, meet minimum age and educational requirements, and often complete a skills assessment or interview. Once accepted, you will work under the supervision of a licensed tradesperson while completing on-the-job training and classroom instruction, which may lead to certification or journeyman status.

What is the best trade to apprentice in?

Trades apprenticeships in fields such as electrical, plumbing, HVAC, carpentry, and welding are highly valued and offer strong job prospects. The best trade depends on personal interest, local demand, and the availability of certification programs, with many trades requiring technical skills and safety training.

What are the most commonly searched types of Trades jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Trades jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Trades Apprentice jobs in Iowa?

For Trades Apprentice jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Trades Apprentice jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Trades Apprentice job openings:

Infographic showing various Trades Apprentice job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution.

Journeyman - Metal Trades

Ankeny, IA • On-site

Baker Group
Specialized Design Services • 1 - 10 employees

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description


PURPOSE

The Metal Trades Journeyman performs skilled fabrication, material handling, equipment operation, and general metal trades work within the fabrication facility. This position supports the fabrication of piping and miscellaneous products by preparing and processing materials, operating shop and material-handling equipment, fabricating components, and performing finishing and assembly work. The Metal Trades Journeyman works safely and efficiently while maintaining established quality and production standards. Performs related work as required.

 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The following duties are typical for this job. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.

  • Unload, handle, and place piping, valves, fittings, and related materials into designated stockpiles, bins, or storage areas.
  • Handle piping to and through furnaces and perform tamping or packing processes used in making bends.
  • Operate forklifts, shop handling equipment, and other material-handling devices.
  • Operate pre-heat and stress-relieving equipment.
  • Re-face flanges and perform operations using drill presses, lathes, boring mills, and other machine tools.
  • Manufacture miscellaneous products not normally classified as pipe bends or welded pipe assemblies.
  • Cut and bevel pipe to specified lengths.
  • Thread and groove pipe.
  • Fabricate and assemble pipe hangers.
  • Grind, clean, blast, paint, mark, assemble, disassemble, and protect valves and piping.
  • Fabricate and thread cast iron and ductile iron spools.
  • Weld hangers, supports, and miscellaneous components.
  • Place and position prefabricated pipe spools onto racks, skids, or designated storage supports within the fabrication facility.

Scope of Work Limitation: All joining of piping, including but not limited to welding, brazing, soldering, mechanical coupling, or any other method of permanent pipe connection, shall be performed exclusively by a Building Trades Apprentice or Building Trades Journeyman.


MINIMUM EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIRED TO PERFORM ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Completion of applicable Metal Trades training, apprenticeship, or a minimum of five (5) years equivalent combination of education and relevant fabrication experience. 
  • Previous experience in a metal fabrication, manufacturing, piping, or industrial shop environment preferred. 
  • Experience operating forklifts and material-handling equipment preferred. 
  • Experience with applicable fabrication equipment, machine tools, and hand and power tools preferred. 
  • Welding experience appropriate to the permitted scope of Metal Trades work preferred.

 

MENTAL AND PHYSICAL COMPETENCIES REQUIRED TO PERFORM ESSENTAL FUNCTIONS

  • Knowledge of basic metal fabrication practices, tools, equipment, and shop procedures. 
  • Ability to accurately use measuring devices and perform work to specified dimensions. 
  • Ability to safely operate applicable fabrication and material-handling equipment. 
  • Ability to read and understand basic fabrication drawings, work instructions, and specifications. 
  • Mechanical aptitude and ability to work effectively with hand and power tools. 
  • Ability to recognize quality issues and complete work accurately and efficiently. 
  • Ability to follow safety procedures and maintain awareness of hazards in an active fabrication environment. 
  • Ability to communicate and work effectively as part of a fabrication team. 
  • Ability to organize work and complete assigned tasks with appropriate supervision.

 

ENVIRONMENTAL ADAPTABILITY 

  • Ability to operate a forklift and other applicable shop and material-handling equipment.
  • Ability to perform work requiring bending, stretching, kneeling, crouching, reaching, and other physical movements.
  • Ability to regularly lift and carry up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move heavier materials, with assistance or material-handling equipment as appropriate.
  • Ability to work in a fabrication/shop environment with exposure to varying temperatures, noise, dust, fumes, and other conditions associated with metal fabrication operations.


EQUIPMENT/TOOLS 

Employer Provided:

  • Hand Box or equivalent
  • Torpedo level
  • 25 ft retractable tape
  • 6 ft folding rule
  • Channel lock type pliers
  • 4 in 1 screwdriver set
  • 6” Cresent wrench
  • 1lb hammer


Baker Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Baker Group will consider reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and encourage prospective employees and incumbents to discuss potential accommodations with the Employer.