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Apprentice Lineworker Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Demonstrate expertise acquired through apprenticeship and experience to execute * Lineworker responsibilities * Collaborate with a Troubleman, following guidelines for the Troubleman classification ...

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Apprentice Lineworker information

See California salary details

$12

$21

$36

How much do apprentice lineworker jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice lineworker in California is $21.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $23.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apprentice Lineworker, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Lineworker, you need a high school diploma or GED, strong mechanical aptitude, and basic electrical knowledge, often supported by completion of a pre-apprenticeship or entry-level training program. Familiarity with tools such as climbing gear, voltage testers, and adherence to OSHA safety standards is essential. Physical stamina, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure safety, efficiency, and reliability when working in potentially hazardous environments to maintain and repair power lines.

What is an Apprentice Lineworker?

An Apprentice Lineworker is an entry-level employee who is training to become a fully qualified lineworker, responsible for constructing, maintaining, and repairing electrical power systems and transmission lines. During their apprenticeship, they learn skills such as climbing poles, handling electrical equipment, and following safety protocols under the supervision of experienced lineworkers. The apprenticeship typically involves a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on, on-the-job training, and can last several years. Apprentice Lineworkers play a crucial role in ensuring the reliability and safety of electrical power delivery to homes and businesses.

What are some common challenges faced by Apprentice Lineworkers during their training period?

Apprentice Lineworkers often encounter challenges such as adapting to physically demanding work, learning to safely operate at heights, and working in various weather conditions. They must quickly develop technical skills and become familiar with complex safety procedures while collaborating closely with experienced team members. Balancing on-the-job training with classroom education can be demanding, but strong mentorship and a supportive crew help apprentices progress steadily toward becoming fully qualified lineworkers.

What is the difference between Apprentice Lineworker vs Journeyman Lineworker?

AspectApprentice LineworkerJourneyman Lineworker
CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, on-the-job training, apprenticeship programCompletion of apprenticeship, relevant certifications, experience
Work EnvironmentAssists with basic tasks under supervision, works outdoors, in various weather conditionsPerforms complex line work independently, maintains safety standards
Employer & Industry UsageUtility companies, electrical contractorsUtility companies, electrical service providers

The main difference between an Apprentice Lineworker and a Journeyman Lineworker is experience and skill level. Apprentices are in training, assisting with basic tasks, while Journeymen have completed their apprenticeship and can perform advanced line work independently. Both roles work in outdoor environments for utility companies, but the Journeyman has greater responsibilities and expertise.

What are popular job titles related to Apprentice Lineworker jobs in California? For Apprentice Lineworker jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Apprentice Lineworker jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Apprentice Lineworker jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Apprentice Lineworker jobs? Cities in California with the most Apprentice Lineworker job openings:
Electro-Mechanical Technician Apprentice - Maintenance of Wayside

Electro-Mechanical Technician Apprentice - Maintenance of Wayside

San Diego Metropolitan Transit System

San Diego, CA

$46.33/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Summary

San Diego Trolley, Inc. ("MTS") offers a 4-year apprenticeship program, leading to a rewarding career working on the light rail system for America's finest city. MTS offers competitive wages, exceptional benefits, career advancement, tools and uniforms. Learn the skills necessary to move up the career ladder as an Assistant Lineman, Lineman and Electromechanic responsible for the highly skilled repair and maintenance of the MTS Rail System.

Application Review: Applications will be accepted and reviewed on an ongoing basis.
Interviews are typically conducted on a weekly basis.

What is an Apprentice Responsible for?

Maintenance and inspection of the following:

  • Wayside Railroad Signal System
  • Railroad Grade Crossings
  • Railroad Track Switches
  • Traction Power Generation and Distribution
  • Operation of overhead bucket trucks and cranes
  • Various lighting systems
  • Ventilation systems
  • Pumps and pump controls

Paid Training and Education

The Apprenticeship Program is divided into two (2) main segments: Assistant Lineman and Lineman. Each segment is approximately two years in duration and consists of on-the-job training and formal classroom training. The formal classroom training is conducted on the employee's own time and may consist of attending classes at San Diego City College, or other approved local junior colleges, as well as formal classes held on MTS premises. MTS pays for the cost of the tuition and books. Apprentices attend classes while working full-time.

At the conclusion of the Assistant Lineman Apprenticeship Program, the State of California awards the employee a Journeyman's Certificate as an Assistant Lineman. The employee is then enrolled in the Apprentice Lineman Program. At the conclusion of the Lineman Program, the employee is awarded a Journeyman's Certificate as a Lineman. The employee is then eligible for promotion to Electromechanic.

Competitive Wages

Starting rate of pay is $25.47 per hour. After a six-month probationary period, the employee is eligible for a pay raise to $27.78 per hour and eligible for wage increases every six months thereafter. Top rate of pay for an Assistant Lineman is $34.81 per hour. Top rate of pay for a Lineman is $40.12 per hour. Top rate of pay for an Electromechanic (after approximately six years from hire date) is $46.33 per hour.

Here are some of the additional perks and benefits!

  • Retirement Plan through California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS).
  • Medical, dental & life insurance plans, upon completion of 180 day probationary period.
  • Two (2) weeks of vacation, after one year of service.
  • Holidays.
  • Free travel on most local public transit systems.
  • Sick leave, after six months of service.

What we are Looking For

Requirements:

  • High school diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Must have passed Algebra in high school or college with a passing grade of C or better.
  • An aptitude test will be required following interview.
  • To be considered for the role, you must submit your California driving record from the DMV to MTS. MTS will accept either the online printout or a certified copy of your driving record.

DISCLAIMER: The above described job elements are intended to indicate the general nature and levels of work being performed by employees assigned to the job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities and skills required of employees so classified. Management retains the discretion to add to or change the duties of the position at any time.

EEO is The Law - Equal Employer Opportunity Employer Minorities/Women/Protected Veterans/Disabled

MTS is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer with an ongoing commitment to treat all people, including customers, co-workers and the public at large, with dignity and respect. As a public transportation agency, MTS is committed to providing an inclusive workplace that reflects the diverse communities in which we work and live.

MTS supports and promotes an environment that is free of discrimination and harassment. MTS recruits, hires, trains and promotes individuals without regard to race, such as hair texture and hairstyles), color, religion, ancestry, national origin, age (40 years or older), sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, medical condition (cured or rehabilitated cancer), physical disability, mental disability, reproductive health decision-making, genetic information (including family medical history), military or veteran status, or any other protected class.

MTS encourages veterans, military spouses and people from different backgrounds to apply for open positions for which they are interested. Additionally, MTS employees are encouraged to refer qualified candidates from all backgrounds and age groups. At MTS, we are committed to a fair and equitable workplace where everyone is a respected and valued member of the team.