If you're aiming to launch a career as a pipefitter in Jacksonville, FL, in 2025, you'll need a high school diploma or GED, complete a 4- to 5-year apprenticeship, and obtain necessary certifications like those from OSHA or NCCER to work in this field. Expect average hourly wages of $26.37, with job growth projected at 6% by 2033, and challenges like physical demands and licensing that can be overcome through structured programs like those from UA Local 234. This guide outlines the steps, from education and training to career prospects, helping you navigate the process in a city with 47 pipefitter jobs listed on Indeed and robust opportunities in construction and energy sectors; for more job listings, check Indeed Jobs.
Before starting your journey, grasp what a pipefitter does in Jacksonville, FL. Pipefitters are skilled tradespeople who install, maintain, and repair piping systems for water, gas, and industrial applications in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. This includes working with blueprints, welding pipes, ensuring safety compliance, and troubleshooting systems, which demands physical strength, problem-solving skills, and knowledge of advanced tools; learn more about training options at TWS Welding Programs.
Yes, while Florida doesn't mandate a specific pipefitter license, contractors often require certifications to work legally. In Jacksonville, pipefitters typically fall under plumbing contractor licenses managed by the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board 1, with options for Certified licenses for statewide work or Registered licenses for local jurisdictions. Additional certifications like OSHA 510 or NCCER in welding enhance employability, and you can explore more at TWS Licensing Guide; for union details, visit UA Local 234.
Pipefitting apprenticeships in Jacksonville generally last 4 to 5 years, combining on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Here's a breakdown of key programs:
| Apprenticeship Program | Duration (Years) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| UA Local 234 | 4-5 | Paid training, college credits, job placement, and union benefits; applications open January 6 to April 4, 2025 2; visit UA Training for more info. |
| Tulsa Welding School (TWS) | 4-5 | Hands-on welding and pipefitting courses, tool packages, and career services; requires high school diploma 3; check TWS Programs. |
To find an apprenticeship, use Gild to search for openings, or contact UA Local 234 at https://ua234.com for union-backed opportunities. These programs provide the practical experience and certifications needed for success; additionally, explore Indeed for Pipefitter Jobs.
Start by ensuring you meet the essentials: be at least 18 years old, hold a high school diploma or GED, and have basic math and science knowledge. Physical fitness and English proficiency are also crucial for handling blueprints and safety protocols; for detailed requirements, refer to Florida Licensing Board Info.
While not mandatory, programs like those at TWS offer foundational skills in welding, pipe design, and safety 4. This step builds your expertise and prepares you for apprenticeships, with resources available at TWS Welding Specialist; you can also find related apprenticeships via Gild Job Feed.
Enroll in a program like UA Local 234's, which provides paid, hands-on training 2. During this time, you'll gain real-world experience in pipefitting, supervised by professionals, and earn wages while learning; learn more at UA Local 234 Training.
After your apprenticeship, pursue certifications such as OSHA or NCCER to boost your credentials 5. In Florida, aim for a Certified contractor license for broader opportunities, with details on TWS Licensing; don't forget to check Indeed Jobs for openings.
With experience, you can move into specialized roles or supervisory positions, leveraging Jacksonville's growing demand with 47 jobs on Indeed 2. Join unions for better pay and stability, and use Gild to find advanced opportunities; for additional resources, visit UA Local 234.
Embarking on a pipefitting career in Jacksonville, FL, offers steady growth and salaries up to $70,000 annually for union roles 6, with challenges like job competition addressed through quality training. As you build skills and experience, explore openings on Gild to kickstart your path in this essential trade, ensuring a rewarding future in 2025 and beyond; for more job insights, check Indeed and TWS.
https://www.tws.edu/blog/welding/pipefitting-training-in-jacksonville-fl-what-you-need-to-know-about-pipefitting-career-preparation/ ↩
https://www.indeed.com/q-pipefitter-l-jacksonville,-fl-jobs.html ↩ ↩2 ↩3
https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Jobs/Pipefitter/-in-Jacksonville,FL ↩
https://www.randstadusa.com/jobs/309/AB_4735551/pipe-fitter_jacksonville/ ↩
https://www.livelytech.com/programs/industrial-pipe-fitter/ ↩
