Apprenticeship

The apprenticeship program is a highly structured training system that combines on the job training with related and supplemental classroom instruction. The apprenticeship program is designed to train people with little or no prior knowledge of the electrical craft or trade. Apprentices work during the day with an electrical contractor, who pays the apprentice directly for time worked, and then attend classroom instruction in the evening. Class is held twice a week during the school year at the Training Center in Castroville. The rate of pay is based on the level of progress in the program. Apprentices start at 45% of the Journeyman rate. Classroom time is not compensated.

Basic Requirements

You must be physically able to perform electrical construction work. You must not be color-blind. (See "Job Description") The following documents must be submitted to complete the application process:

1. Must be 18 years of age or older on the date of your application. 
2. Valid Driver's License.
3. High School Diploma, GED, or two-year Associate Degree or higher.
4. Sealed embossed, official transcript showing that you have completed one full year of high school Algebra with a "C" grade or better or one post High School Algebra course with a passing grade of "C" or better. Successful completion of the online NJATC Tech Math Class will also satisfy this requirement.

You must have a willingness to attend classes as required by the Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee.

State approved Standards adopted by the Tri-County Electrical Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee are all part of these requirements as provided by the Shelly-Maloney Act.

Basic Qualifications

Those applicants meeting the above requirements will be scheduled for the written examination consisting of two parts: Algebra and functions, and reading comprehension. Those applicants successfully completing the written examinations will be qualified for an oral interview. Interviewed applicants who receive a passing interview score will have their name and score placed on a Ranking List of eligible applicants. The applicant's name will remain on this list for a maximum of two years unless selected for indenture prior to that time. Applicants receiving the highest oral interview score will be offered apprenticeship positions first. Those applicants offered apprenticeship positions will be screened for controlled substances.

Five-Year Program

The electrical construction apprenticeship program, accreditated through Hartnell College, consists of 10 semesters of related and supplemental instruction and a minimum of 8,000 hours of on the job training. Classroom training is held at night and attendance is mandatory. Classroom training is provided on a semester schedule. Typical class schedules are from August through May.

Job Description

The electrical construction trade is a physical experience performed on ladders and scaffolds, requiring climbing, pulling, twisting, crawling, and crouching in cramped or confined quarters. Work is performed outside, in semi sheltered, finished and unfinished building environments. Employees are exposed to the elements and the debris of the construction site. Workers are regularly required to lift and move objects weighing more than 50 pounds. Electrical systems are coded by color; therefore workers cannot be color blind. Apprentices shall be under constant supervision of a Journeyman Electrician at all times.

Approval

The NECA/IBEW electrical apprenticeship program is approved by the State of California, Department of Industrial Relations, Division of Apprenticeship Standards, and the United States Department of Labor, Office of Apprenticeship. The program is also approved for Veteran Benefits.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Applicants will be selected by qualification only, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Both males and females are encouraged to apply. The Tri-County Electrical JATC apprenticeship program admits students of any race, color and national or ethnic origin.

Wages and Benefits

Hourly wage rate starting at 45% of Journeyman rate.

Apprentices become eligible for a complete medical and life insurance package approximately the first day of the fourth month of work. National Electrical Benefit Fund (NEBF) pension credits start accruing on the first day of work. Contributions to the Local 234 Electrical Workers Pension Fund are made on their behalf beginning with the third period of the apprentice program.

Start Your Application Now

Frequently Asked Questions