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
- At least 18 years old
- Be a high school graduate
- Physically able to perform the work of the trade
- Sufficient education to meet trade requirements, usually high school diploma or GED
- Have access to dependable transportation to job sites
- Complete pre-employment safety/orientation class
- Have required hand tools
- Must take a standardized test; the score will be factored into your overall application score
Drug test must be taken before taking standardized safety and orientation test.
*Degree Available
To Apply, Contact:
Kent Carpenter Training Center – Nate Diller
20424 72nd Ave South
Kent, WA 98032
Phone: (253) 437-5235
Fax: (253) 437-5807
Office Hours: 6 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., Monday–Friday
Class Hours: 6 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., Monday–Friday