Plumbing Apprenticeship Program – New Jersey
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in New Jersey / Plumbing Apprenticeship Program – New Jersey
Plumbing Apprenticeship Program – New Jersey
Program Information
The New Jersey Plumbing Apprenticeship Program is a comprehensive, state-supported pathway designed to prepare individuals for a long-term career in the plumbing trade. This program combines structured classroom instruction with extensive hands-on training, ensuring apprentices develop the technical abilities, safety awareness, and problem-solving skills needed to succeed in both residential and commercial plumbing environments. Throughout the program, apprentices train alongside licensed plumbers, gaining real-world experience installing water distribution systems, drainage systems, gas lines, and plumbing fixtures. They learn how to properly measure, cut, thread, and assemble pipes using industry-standard tools and techniques, all while becoming familiar with the materials and technologies increasingly used in modern plumbing.
In the classroom, apprentices study topics such as blueprint reading, advanced plumbing mathematics, state and local plumbing codes, backflow prevention, water heater installation, sanitation systems, and environmental regulations. A strong emphasis is placed on safety training, including OSHA requirements, hazard identification, and proper handling of tools and equipment. This dual-education structure ensures that apprentices not only understand how plumbing systems work but also understand why each step is performed in a specific way—an essential foundation for those aiming to become licensed professionals.
The program is recognized for its rigorous standards and alignment with New Jersey’s licensing requirements. Upon completion, apprentices are thoroughly prepared to take the state journeyman plumber licensing exam. Many graduates move directly into full-time roles with plumbing contractors, mechanical companies, union shops, or municipal facilities. Others pursue specialized fields such as gasfitting, pipefitting, hydronic heating, or green plumbing technologies. Because New Jersey continues to experience high demand for skilled tradespeople, program graduates enter a strong job market with excellent wages, benefits, and long-term career security.
Beyond technical training, apprentices also develop the soft skills valued in the industry—communication, customer interaction, jobsite professionalism, teamwork, and time management. These attributes, combined with thousands of hours of supervised experience, make graduates highly competitive candidates for plumbing positions statewide. Whether working on new construction, remodeling projects, emergency repairs, or large-scale commercial plumbing systems, individuals completing this apprenticeship are well-equipped to advance in a respected and essential trade.
Program Length
5 years (includes 10,000 hours of on-the-job training)
Program Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED
- Strong math and mechanical skills
- Ability to work in confined spaces
Apprenticeship Cost & Career Outlook
Plumbing Apprenticeship Program – New Jersey is a Registered Apprenticeship Program — meaning you can earn while you learn through paid on-the-job training in Plumbing.
- Paid on-the-job training with step increases as you progress
- Classroom / technical instruction is part of the program structure
- Training costs are often low — but you may still pay for tools, books, or fees
- Credential earned at completion is recognized by employers in the industry
Registered apprenticeships are overseen by the U.S. Department of Labor or a State Apprenticeship Agency. Because these programs aren’t traditional colleges, College Scorecard tuition and earnings data usually doesn’t apply.
Step-by-Step Career Guides
The programs and apprenticeships listed on this page relate to hands-on skilled trades. Explore the guides below to learn about training paths, licensing, salaries, and what to expect in each career field.