Roofers Local 8 – Roofing Apprenticeship Program
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in New York / Roofers Local 8 – Roofing Apprenticeship Program
Roofers Local 8 – Roofing Apprenticeship Program
Programs Offered
- Roofing Apprenticeship Training (Union, Full-Time)
- Commercial & Residential Roofing Apprenticeship
- Waterproofing & Air Barrier Systems Training
- Pathway to Journeyperson Roofer Status
Program Overview
The Roofers Local 8 Apprenticeship Program in New York State provides a comprehensive pathway for individuals seeking a long-term union roofing career. This five-year apprenticeship combines paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction focused on safety, roofing systems, waterproofing, and technical skills. Apprentices learn to install, repair, and maintain a variety of roofing systems used in commercial, industrial, and residential construction.
Local 8 represents roofers who work with low-slope systems, steep-slope roofing, vegetative and solar-integrated roofs, waterproofing membranes, and air barriers. Successful apprentices develop the skills needed to advance to Journeyperson status while earning competitive wages and union benefits.
Hands-On Training
Apprentices gain real-world experience in:
- Installing shingles, flashing, insulation, waterproof membranes, and structural roof systems.
- Working with low-slope, steep-slope, vegetative, and photovoltaic roofing systems.
- Applying air barriers, sealants, and advanced waterproofing materials.
- Learning proper safety procedures when working at heights and on uneven surfaces.
- Using roofing tools such as nailers, torches, cutters, and safety harnesses.
- Reading blueprints, measuring materials, and preparing jobsite layouts.
Certification & Licensing Prep
- Training hours apply toward Journeyperson Roofer certification through Roofers Local 8.
- Includes OSHA safety training and specialized certifications as required by jobsite tasks.
- Programs may include asbestos-handling certification if required for specific roofing work.
Career Paths & Salary Outlook
- Apprentice Roofer: Earn an average of $20 per hour with steady wage increases.
- Journeyperson Roofer: Significant increase in pay upon completion of the apprenticeship.
- Specialized Roofing Technician: Opportunities in waterproofing, air barrier systems, and advanced roofing installations.
- Foreman or Lead Roofer: Long-term opportunities with experience and leadership development.
Program Length
- Five-year registered apprenticeship program.
- Includes classroom instruction and progressive on-the-job training.
- Apprentices rotate through various roofing systems to develop a full range of skills.
Admission Requirements
- Must be 18 years of age or older.
- High School Diploma or GED required.
- Reliable transportation to job sites and training facilities.
- Physically able to lift materials, work at heights, and perform strenuous tasks.
- Basic math skills for measurements and material calculations.
- Strong hand-eye coordination, balance, and manual dexterity.
- Ability to follow safety procedures and work in varying weather conditions.
Compensation & Benefits
Apprentices earn approximately $20 per hour while receiving full union benefits, including medical, dental, vision, pension, annuity, and vacation benefits. Apprentices also receive paid on-the-job training and gain access to long-term union career opportunities.
Cost & Financial Support
There is no tuition cost for this apprenticeship. Participants are paid employees of signatory contractors, earning wages while learning in the field and in the classroom.
Location
Roofers Local Union No. 8
12-11 43rd Avenue
Long Island City, NY 11101
Serving roofing and waterproofing contractors throughout New York State.
Apprenticeship Cost & Career Outlook
This is a Registered Apprenticeship Program — meaning you will earn while you learn.
- Paid on-the-job training with increasing wages
- Classroom or technical instruction provided by the program
- No tuition costs — apprentices are paid during training
- Nationally recognized credential upon completion
Because apprenticeships are managed through the U.S. Department of Labor, College Scorecard data for tuition and earnings does not apply. Apprenticeships provide real-world experience and a direct path to journeyman-level wages without student debt.