About Plumbers & Steamfitters Local Union 342

Steamfitters Local 342 was chartered into the United Association of Journeyman and Apprentices in the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry of the United States and Canada in 1914. It began with twenty-one charter members who sought a shorter work-day, wage increases, and better working conditions. Those original members endured adverse conditions that are well documented in the history of the American Labor Movement.

What started as a small band of steamfitters grew to encompass workers in the welding, pipeline, refrigeration, and plumbing trades. The acquisition of these skilled trades came by way of mergers with other UA locals, including Plumbers Local 444 in 1994, and helped to establish one of the strongest examples of a combination local. We are proud of our humble beginnings and strive to maintain the highest standard of excellence.

United Association Local Union 342 represents workers in the pipe trades industries. These highly skilled craftsmen and craftswomen build and service everything from sanitary plumbing in homes, to ultra pure process piping systems in semiconductor and biotech plants. Examples of the work performed include:

Commercial and Residential Plumbing:
Installation, service and repair of plumbing and sanitary systems, water and gas piping, and fixtures in homes, commercial enterprises, and other institutions.

Energy:
Construction, repair and service of key systems in energy generating and fuel processing facilities, including co-generation plants and oil refineries.

Refrigeration and Air Conditioning:
Installation, service and repair of refrigeration and HVAC systems that maintain the comfort, health, and safety of building occupants or operate in various industrial and commercial applications. Building Automation is one of the fastest growing parts of the industry. With the advancement of digital controls and energy efficiency a top priority, knowledge of HVAC/R, along with computer/programming skills, can be a valuable career asset.

High-Tech Process Systems:
Design-Build, installation and service of high-purity process piping for semiconductor, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical manufacturing.

Pipeline:
Northern California’s leading resource for expertise in the construction, service, and replacement of pipeline systems, including pumps and other installations.

Medical Gas:
Installation, service and repair of piping systems that provide hospital patients with life-giving oxygen and other medical gases.