What is the Sheet Metal Workers Apprenticeship?

Apprenticeship with Local Union #218 is four-year program. Apprentices will have a full-time job and attend school part-time (Two evenings per week, September-May). The apprenticeship includes 8,000 hours of work and school training.

Our program is certified with the U.S Department of Labor and the Illinois Department of Labor. We are an affirmative action and an equal opportunity employer.

Sheet Metal Work 

You will need to comply with local 218S labor agreement covering employment and to remit dues. Hand tools are required (provided by apprentice). You'll work from ladders, scaffolds various lifts and equipment.  Prepare to work outdoors in hot summers and cold winters all weather conditions. Learn more about about what it's like to be a sheet metal worker.

Training

As our apprentice, you will receive receive core education in steel metal, including hands on training, preparing you to become a skilled sheet metal worker.  You'll receive customized training as needed in:

  • Welding blueprint and spec reading
  • Soldering geometric construction
  • Lagging,
  • Math CAD, including certifications in OSHA 30
  • Lift training CPR
  • Hoisting and rigging
  • Fire life safety

Benefits of a Sheet Metal Apprenticeship with Local Union #218

  • Pay starts at 55% of current journeyperson
  • Receive a raise every 6 months with completion of required job hours and school hours (per state of Illinois DOL Standards)
  • Benefits include health insurance, 401K, two pension plans
  • Books, materials, and education and safety equipment power tools will be provided
  • iPad provided

Requirements

  • Must have high school diploma or GED
  • Must reside in highlighted counties three months prior to application 
  • Requires valid driver's license
  • Requires access to an email account
  • Must have good attitude work as a member of a team be ready to work in various conditions
  • Be presentable and dependable
  • Must pass drug test
  • Must pass physical work test
  • Must pass entrance exam to qualify for interview process
  • Dependable transportation

How to Apply 

Sheet Metal Workers Local Union 218S Joint Apprentice Committee accepts applications for its apprenticeship program the last 2 weeks in February. Applications will be accepted Monday through Friday 10 am - 5 pm at the Sheet Metal Workers Training Center, 2855 Via Verde, Springfield Illinois 62703. Applications will be retained for two (2) years.

*The following minimum applicant qualifications are required, and documents must be presented at time of application, by the applicant in person, no exceptions.

Qualifications:

  1. Applicant shall be at least 17 years of age at time of application.
    1. Applicant shall be at least 17 years of age at time of application.
  2. Have graduated from high school with diploma, sealed letter from high school stating applicant is scheduled to graduate at end of current semester or a GED Certification.
    1. Applicant must provide an official transcript(s), sealed for high school(s).
    2. Diploma and post high school education and training certificates and/or diploma.
    3. Applicants with a GED must submit high school transcripts and GED certificate.
    4. Veteran applicants must submit a DD-214 to verify military training and/or experience, if applicant wishes to receive consideration for such training.
  3. Applicant shall be physically capable of performing the essential functions of the apprenticeship program without posing a direct threat to the health and safety of the individual or others.
    1. Qualified applicants shall be subject to a physical examination and drug screening on acceptance into the program and prior to being employed. The cost of the examination and drug screening shall be the responsibility of SMART 218S JATC.
  4. Applicants must reside and have had residence for at least three (3) months prior to Application, in the area over which the Committee has jurisdiction. No Exceptions.
    1. 218S Jurisdiction encompasses the following Illinois counties: Brown, Cass, Logan, Mason, Menard, Morgan, Sangamon, Schuyler, and Scott
  5. Applicants must possess a valid Illinois driver's license, which provides the applicant's current address. Eligibility for insurance MVR is required. Successful applicants must maintain a valid driver's license and auto insurance for the duration of apprenticeship.
  6. Applicant will pay a $25 non refundable administration fee, cash only.

Study Guides are available for $20 cash only. Refundable on test day, if not damaged or written in.

D.OL. Registration No. IL006480001
Equal Opportunity Employer

Complete the application online