Ready to Join?
SMART Local 55 is a leading force in the sheet metal industry, representing over 2,000+ highly skilled members across the region. Our union is built on a foundation of excellence in HVAC, architectural sheet metal, and industrial construction. Our members are trained to perform a wide range of specialized skills, including production, fabrication, installation, detailing, and testing and balancing of sheet metal and HVAC systems. With a commitment to quality craftsmanship and innovation, we take pride in raising industry standards and shaping the future of the trade.
I Have More Than 4 Years Industry Experience
2+ Years Residential Work or 4+ Years Commercial Work
HVAC Installation – Architectural Sheet Metal – Shop Fabrication – Testing, Adjusting and Balancing – Industrial Sheet Metal – Welding – Kitchen Equipment – CAD Detailing
Unlock Your Earning Potential
SMART Local 55 is committed to providing a clear, structured career path with competitive wages, family healthcare, and strong retirement benefits. Below is an overview of apprenticeship progression and journeyman wage packages in the Spokane, Pasco (Tri-Cities), and Boise jurisdictions.
If you have questions about apprenticeship entry or current wage rates, contact the Local 55 office in Spokane, Pasco, or Boise for the most up-to-date information.
Journeyman – Building Trades (Commercial)
6 Years’ Experience Required
Effective 2025–2026, the Spokane Area Building Trades Journeyman rate includes:
- Hourly Wage on your check: $47.83 per hour
- Total Package Hourly plus benefits: $80.38 per hour
- 90/10 Full Family Healthcare included
- NW Pension, National Pension and Supplemental 401K
- Additional Contributions: Apprenticeship Training, and other negotiated benefits
Apprentices – Building Trades
Apprentices earn a percentage of the journeyman wage, increasing each period as skills and classroom requirements are completed. Current progression in Spokane is:
- 1st Year: Starting at $27.56 per hour
- Apprenticeship with Verified Experience: up to $33.48 per hour
- 5% increases per 6 months until program finished
All apprentices receive healthcare and pension contributions as defined in the agreement.
The Tri-Cities (Pasco Area) commercial journeyman package includes:
Journeyman – Building Trades (Commercial)
6 Years’ Experience Required
- Hourly Wage on your check: $50.00 per hour
- Total Package Hourly plus benefits: $80+ per hour
- 90/10 Full Family Healthcare included
- NW Pension, National Pension and Supplemental 401K
- Additional Contributions: Apprenticeship Training, and other negotiated benefits
Apprentices – Building Trades
Apprentices earn a percentage of the journeyman wage, increasing each period as skills and classroom requirements are completed. Current progression in Pasco / Tri-Cities is:
- 1st Year: Starting at $27.50 per hour
- Apprenticeship with Verified Experience: up to $35.00 per hour
All apprentices receive healthcare and pension contributions as defined in the agreement.
Journeyman – Building Trades (Commercial)
4 Years’ Experience Required
Effective 2025–2026, the Boise Area Building Trades Journeyman rate includes:
- Hourly Wage on your check: $35.90 per hour
- Total Package Hourly plus benefits: $62.62 per hour
- 80/20 Full Family Healthcare included
- NW Pension, National Pension and Supplemental 401K
- Additional Contributions: Apprenticeship Training, and other negotiated benefits
Apprentices – Building Trades
Apprentices earn a percentage of the journeyman wage, increasing each period as skills and classroom requirements are completed. Current progression in Boise is:
- 1st Year: Starting at $24.14 per hour
- Apprenticeship with Verified Experience: up to $39.50 per hour
- 5% increases per 6 months until program finished
All apprentices receive healthcare and pension contributions as defined in the agreement.
What “Total Package” Means
The “Total Package” reflects the full hourly value negotiated on behalf of members. This includes:
- Base hourly wage
- Family healthcare contributions
- Pension contributions
- 401(k) contributions
- Industry advancement funds
- Training and apprenticeship funding
- National benefit funds
This structure ensures members receive not only strong take-home pay but long-term retirement security and healthcare stability.
Shift Premiums & Overtime
Spokane, Pasco and Boise agreements include:
- Shift differentials for swing and graveyard shifts
- Overtime at time and one-half and double time per agreement
- Travel and subsistence provisions where applicable
Apprenticeship Pathway
SMART Local 55’s apprenticeship program in Pasco and Spokane is a five-year earn-while-you-learn program. Boise is a four year program combining:
- Paid on-the-job training
- Classroom instruction
- Industry certifications
- Progressive wage increases
Apprentices are not guaranteed placement. Entry is competitive and contingent upon qualifications and contractor demand.
We are currently accepting apprenticeship applications. Feel free to reach out to an organizer and or submit an application for consideration.
More About Local 55
Training for a Skilled Workforce
Sheet metal workers require a solid foundation of skills to perform their duties in the field and in the shop. This is why SMART Local 55 requires a 5 year training program for each of its members. Our apprenticeship program ensures that our membership receives the highest level of training to prepare them for a lifelong career. This State-approved program cultivates a knowledgeable workforce that sets the standard of quality for our industry.
A Career with Benefits
SMART Local 55 not only provides world class training for its members but also ensures they can maintain a good quality of life. As a group of working people standing together for the benefit of each other, Sheet Metal Workers’ Local Union No. 55 works to secure wages and benefits that our membership deserves. Becoming a member of Local 104 means you are entitled to receive livable wages, health care for you and your family, and the ability to retire in dignity.
Tell Us About Your Industry Experience
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