Careers In Construction


Building Trades Pipe Fitter (Updated May 2009)


A Pipe Fitter measures, fabricates, connects, installs and maintains piping for process-piping systems. A Pipe Fitter may work on the following systems; steam, water, air, natural gas, chemical, hydraulic, heating, cooling, etc.

Length of Apprenticeship:


Five (5) years: 1,100 classroom hours.

1st year (1st 6 months): An Apprentice works for a Union contactor four days per week and attends school one day per week. (7:00a.m.-3:30p.m.)

1st year (2nd 6 months): An Apprentice works for a Union contractor Monday-Friday and attends school for 22 consecutive Saturdays (7:00a.m.-3:30p.m.)

2nd year: An Apprentice works for a Union contractor four days per week and attends school one day per week (7:00a.m.-3:30p.m.).

3rd & 4th Year: An Apprentice works for a Union contractor and attends school one day (7:00a.m.-3:30p.m.) every other week.

5th Year: An Apprentice works for a Union contractor for the full year. All training is “on the job”.

Wage Information:


An Apprentice earns a percentage of the Journeyman’s wage. Specific wage information will be given to accepted applicants.

Benefits:


Health, Dental and Vision Insurance. Pension. Voluntary 401(K) Plan

Basic Requirements:


  • Applicant must be an American Citizen or in the process of naturalization.

  • Applicant must be at least 17 years of age (Age as shown by a birth certificate).

  • Applicant must submit a high school diploma or G.E.D. certificate.

  • Applicant must be physically able to perform the duties of the trade.

  • Applicant must pass a written test and oral interview.

  • Applicant must pass two drug tests (Hair follicle & urinalysis).

  • Applicant must have reliable transportation.

  • Work experience in construction, or working with mechanical equipment is helpful, but not necessary for acceptance.

  • Working Conditions:


    Pipefitters work both indoors and outdoors in the following areas of work: Industrial, Chemical, Power, Wastewater Treatment, Food Processing, Nuclear Plants, Steel Mills, Oil Refineries, Hospitals, Residential and Commercial Buildings, etc.

    Recommended Preparatory Classes:


  • General Mathematics

  • Algebra

  • Geometry/Trigonometry

  • Basic Arc Welding

  • Shop Classes

  • Entry Process:


    Applications are available on the First Wednesday of each month from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00p.m. (Noon) at the following location:

    Pipe Fitters Training Center Local Union 597
    10850 W. 187th St.
    Mokena, IL 60448
    Phone: (708) 326-9240
    Fax: (708) 326-9241

    Contact:


    Matthew Majszak
    Email: mmajszak@pftf597.org



    Mechanical Service Pipe Fitter (Updated May 2009)


    Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration (HVAC/R)




    Maintain and repair mechanical systems for heating, cooling and refrigeration. Most equipment is located outdoors.

    Length of Apprenticeship:


    Five (5) years: 1,100 classroom hours.

    1st year (1st 6 months): An Apprentice works for a Union contactor four days per week and attends school one day per week. (7:00a.m.-3:30p.m.)

    1st year (2nd 6 months): An Apprentice works for a Union contractor Monday-Friday and attends school for 22 consecutive Saturdays (7:00a.m.-3:30p.m.)

    2nd year: An Apprentice works for a Union contractor four days per week and attends school one day per week (7:00a.m.-3:30p.m.).

    3rd & 4th Year: An Apprentice works for a Union contractor and attends school one day (7:00a.m.-3:30p.m.) every other week.

    5th Year: An Apprentice works for a Union contractor for the full year. All training is “on the job”.

    Wage Information:


    An Apprentice earns a percentage of the Journeyman’s wage. Specific wage information will be given to accepted applicants.

    Benefits:


    Health, Dental and Vision Insurance. Pension. Voluntary 401(K) Plan

    Basic Requirements:


  • Applicant must be an American Citizen or in the process of naturalization.

  • Applicant must be at least 17 years of age (Age as shown by a birth certificate).

  • Applicant must submit a high school diploma or G.E.D. certificate.

  • Applicant must be physically able to perform the duties of the trade.

  • Applicant must pass a written test and oral interview.

  • Applicant must pass two drug tests (Hair follicle & urinalysis).

  • Applicant must have reliable transportation.

  • Work experience in construction, or working with mechanical equipment is helpful, but not necessary for acceptance.

  • Working Conditions:


    Mechanical Service Pipe Fitters work mostly outdoors in the following areas of work: Residential (Houses), Commercial (Office Buildings, Warehouses, Grocery Stores, Restaurants, Ice Rinks & Hospitals) Industrial (Oil Refineries, Nuclear Plants, Steel Mills & Factories).

    Recommended Preparatory Classes:


  • General Mathematics

  • Algebra

  • Geometry/Trigonometry

  • Basic Electricity

  • Basic Refrigeration and Heating

  • Computer Skills

  • Communication & Writing Skills

  • Entry Process:


    Applications are available on the First Wednesday of each month from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00p.m. (Noon) at the following location:

    Pipe Fitters Training Center Local Union 597
    10850 W. 187th St.
    Mokena, IL 60448
    Phone: (708) 326-9240
    Fax: (708) 326-9241

    Contact:


    Matthew Majszak
    Email: mmajszak@pftf597.org

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