Roofers Local 8 Apprenticeship Program – Long Island City
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in New York / Roofers Local 8 Apprenticeship Program – Long Island City
Roofers Local 8 Apprenticeship Program – Long Island City, NY
Program Information
The United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers and Allied Workers Local Union No. 8 offers a comprehensive five-year registered apprenticeship program designed to prepare individuals for long-term careers in commercial roofing and waterproofing. Established in 1919, Roofers Local 8 has over a century of experience training skilled professionals who work on durable, large-scale structures throughout New York City and surrounding areas.
This apprenticeship combines structured on-the-job training with union-led classroom and safety instruction. Apprentices work directly for signatory contractors on active job sites while learning critical trade skills such as built-up roofing systems, single-ply membranes, waterproofing applications, safety procedures, and jobsite coordination. Training emphasizes real-world conditions, teamwork, and craftsmanship, ensuring apprentices graduate fully prepared for journeyperson responsibilities.
Local 8 partners closely with union contractors to ensure apprentices gain consistent employment, progressive responsibility, and exposure to a wide range of roofing and waterproofing systems. As skills develop, apprentices transition from material handling and site preparation to full system installation, repair work, and leadership tasks alongside experienced journeypersons.
Program Length
The Roofers Local 8 apprenticeship is a structured five-year program that includes thousands of hours of paid on-the-job training combined with required classroom and safety instruction. Successful completion results in journeyperson status.
Wages & Benefits
Apprentices earn competitive wages while training, with an average starting wage of approximately $20 per hour. Pay increases are built into the program as apprentices advance through each year of training and skill development.
- Paid, full-time employment throughout the apprenticeship
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Pension and annuity benefits
- Vacation and supplemental benefit funds
- Union representation and job security
Upon reaching journeyperson status, graduates earn significantly higher wages and full union benefit packages, positioning them for long-term financial stability and retirement security.
Program Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Physically capable of performing demanding outdoor work
- Ability to work at heights and in varying weather conditions
- Commitment to safety, attendance, and skill development
- Ability to follow instructions and work as part of a team
Application Process
Applications are accepted during scheduled enrollment windows and may close early once application limits are reached. Applicants should be prepared to meet union eligibility requirements and participate in the full apprenticeship commitment.
Career Outcomes
Graduates become journeyperson roofers and waterproofers qualified to work on major commercial and infrastructure projects. Roofers Local 8 members benefit from steady demand, strong contractor partnerships, and advancement opportunities within the union, including foreman and supervisory roles.
Apprenticeship Cost & Career Outlook
Roofers Local 8 Apprenticeship Program – Long Island City is a Registered Apprenticeship Program — meaning you can earn while you learn through paid on-the-job training in Roofing.
- 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.