Pile Drivers *

The Work
Pile drivers drive heavy beams, or pilings, into the earth as a support for a structure. Pile drivers work with power and hand tools. They work on docks, bridges and ferry landings, including wood, steel and concrete. They run chain saws and burning torches. They also build the form work on the pilings and drill holes to put pilings into the ground, and do form work on bridges. They do both new and old construction. Pile drivers also do foundation work for buildings, welding and many other related work processes.

Working Conditions
The work pile drivers do is very physical and involves climbing, kneeling, lifting and squatting. Work is done both indoors and out. Jobs are very strenuous as they have to work with heavy material. Job site locations may change often so workers will have to travel to take an available job. Apprentices must be in good health, meet certain strength requirements, be agile and have good hand-eye coordination.

The Apprenticeship
The apprenticeship program requires 5,200 - 8,000 on-the-job hours (about 4+ years) to complete, and attendance at related training classes for 160 hours per year. The related training class is scheduled for one week every quarter.

Apprenticeship Entry Requirements