The Work

Piledrivers work with power and hand tools. They drive all types of piling, including wood, steel, and concrete pilings. They work on docks, bridges, and ferry landings. They run chain saws and burning torches, and use air tools to chip the piling. They also build the form work on the pilings, drill holes to put pilings into the ground, and do form work on bridges. They do new construction and rebuild old. Piledrivers also do foundation work for buildings, weld, and do many other related work processes.

Working Conditions

The work piledrivers perform is very physical and involves climbing, kneeling, lifting and squatting. Jobs are very strenuous, as they have to work with heavy timbers. Work is done both indoors and outside, depending on the nature of the construction. Job site locations change so you will have to travel to take an available job. You may work inside where it is warm and dry or you may work outside or on a work boat on the water where you may get cold and wet. You could work in a hole 100 feet below ground or work 100 feet above ground. You must be in good health, meet certain strength requirements, be agile, and have good hand-eye coordination.

The Apprenticeship

The apprenticeship is a 4-year program and requires a minimum of 5,200 hours of on-the-job training, and 144 hours per year of supplemental classroom instruction. An additional 7 weeks classroom training may be required each year. This program combines hands-on and classroom education with on-the-job training. The "earn while your learn" approach gives you the opportunity to earn a good living while developing marketable skills.

Enrollment Period: Call for information on openings.

To Apply

Piledrivers and Divers Union Local 2520
Apprenticeship Training Program
825 East 8th Avenue
Anchorage, AK 99501
Contact: Apprenticeship Coordinator
(907) 272-7577 (phone)
(907) 277-8967 (fax)

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