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Apprentice Powerline Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Apprentice Powerline information

See California salary details

$12

$21

$36

How much do apprentice powerline jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice powerline 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 is an apprentice powerline?

Apprentice Powerline workers, also known as apprentice linemen, are entry-level trainees who learn how to construct, maintain, and repair electrical power transmission and distribution lines. They work under the supervision of experienced journeymen, assisting in installing poles, wires, transformers, and other equipment. Apprenticeships typically last several years and combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction to ensure safety and technical competence. This role is critical for ensuring reliable power delivery to homes and businesses.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an apprentice powerline?

To thrive as an Apprentice Powerline, you need a high school diploma or GED, basic math and mechanical skills, and often must complete a formal apprenticeship program. Familiarity with safety equipment, climbing gear, electrical testing tools, and knowledge of OSHA regulations are essential for the role. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication help apprentices work safely and efficiently in challenging environments. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure safety, reliability, and success in constructing and maintaining power lines.

What is the difference between Apprentice Powerline vs Journeyman Powerline?

AspectApprentice PowerlineJourneyman Powerline
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma and completion of an apprenticeship programRequires completion of an apprenticeship and relevant licensing or certification
Work EnvironmentAssists with installation, maintenance, and repair under supervision, often in outdoor, high-voltage settingsPerforms independent high-voltage line work, troubleshooting, and repairs in outdoor environments
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed by utility companies, construction firms, and contractorsEmployed by utility companies, contractors, and government agencies

The main difference between an Apprentice Powerline and a Journeyman Powerline is experience and certification. Apprentices are in training, assisting with tasks under supervision, while Journeymen are fully qualified, performing independent high-voltage work. Both roles are essential in the powerline industry, with apprentices progressing toward becoming Journeymen through training and experience.

What are some common challenges faced by apprentice powerline workers during their training period?

Apprentice Powerline workers often face challenges such as adapting to physically demanding work outdoors in various weather conditions and learning to follow strict safety protocols at all times. Balancing classroom instruction with on-the-job training can also be demanding, as apprentices must quickly absorb technical knowledge while developing practical skills. Working at heights and handling high-voltage equipment requires constant attention and effective teamwork, making good communication essential. Overcoming these challenges helps apprentices build strong foundations for a successful career as a journeyman lineman.

How can I become a powerline apprentice?

To become a powerline apprentice, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and must pass a physical exam and aptitude test. Apprenticeship programs are often offered through unions or utility companies and combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction, usually lasting 3 to 4 years. Prior experience with construction or electrical work can be beneficial, and a valid driver's license is often required.
What are popular job titles related to Apprentice Powerline jobs in California? For Apprentice Powerline jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Apprentice Powerline jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Apprentice Powerline jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Apprentice Powerline jobs? Cities in California with the most Apprentice Powerline job openings:
Infographic showing various Apprentice Powerline job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,206 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

ELECTRIC DISTRIBUTION MECHANIC (3879) (REVISED 5/21/26)

City of Los Angeles, CA

Los Angeles, CA โ€ข On-site

$130K - $215K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Salary: $130,604.00 - $215,335.00 Annually
Location : CITY OF LOS ANGELES, CA
Job Type: FULL-TIME
Job Number: 3879 O 2023/01/24 C
Department: DWP - Power
Opening Date: 01/24/2023
Closing Date: Continuous
DUTIES
ANNUAL SALARY
For trainee positions: $130,604 to $167,916; and $136,972 to $176,101
For journey-level positions: $195,666 (flat-rated); $204,874 (flat-rated); and; $215,335 (flat-rated)
NOTES:
  1. Candidates from the eligible list are normally appointed to vacancies in the lower pay grade positions.
  2. Annual salary is at the start of the pay range. The current salary range is subject to change. Please confirm the starting salary with the hiring department before accepting a job offer.
  3. For information regarding reciprocity between the City of Los Angeles departments and LADWP, go to http://per.lacity.org/Reciprocity_CityDepts_and_DWP.pdf.

An entry-level Electric Distribution Mechanic works as a trainee under close supervision of journey-level workers. Trainees receive extensive classroom training as well as on the job training as a cable splicer and as a line mechanic.
Electric Distribution Mechanic trainees assist in the construction, maintenance and repair of overhead electric power sub-transmission and distribution lines and equipment; constructs high-voltage distribution pole lines; makes construction changes to existing lines and equipment; repairs power lines and line equipment; repairs and reroutes services; sets poles; installs transformer racks; hangs and installs transformers and switches of various types and sizes; installs overhead street lights and guy wires; makes repairs to energized lines; performs limited line clearance tree trimming; installs watt-hour meters; uses appropriate live line tools to install and remove approved protective covering on energized distribution and sub-transmission circuits of 7.5kV and above; and climbs poles.
Electric Distribution Mechanic trainees assist in the construction, maintenance, and repair of underground electric power, transmission, sub-transmission, and distribution cable work. Performs work activities in connection with underground cable installation and removal; pulls cables and service lines through sub-structures, vaults, duct lines, up poles and walls, over roofs of buildings and to customers' service panels; performs rigging operations of cable pulling equipment; installs and removes transformers and related equipment in vaults and sub-structures; splices energized and de-energized low-voltage cables, splices high voltage de-energized cables; maintains gas and oil filled cable and equipment; installs watt hour meters; and climbs poles as related to underground work.
A journey-level Electric Distribution Mechanic performs skilled mechanical and electrical work in connection with the construction, maintenance, and repair of energized and/or de-energized overhead and underground electric transmission, subtransmission, distribution, communication, and utilitarian street light lines, cables, and equipment; and may work as a mentor over a group of skilled craft workers.
REQUIREMENT(S)/MINIMUM QUALIFICATION(S)
1. Completion of an apprenticeship program sanctioned by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) national organization in conjunction with the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA), and possession of a valid journey-level line worker card issued by IBEW; or
2. A pole climbing proficiency certificate issued by an accredited lineman's college or by the Department of Water and Power, Power System Safety and Training, or completion of a recognized Advanced Training Pole Climbing program while in the United States military; and one of the following:
a. Six months of full-time paid experience assisting or working on an overhead and/or underground Electrical Distribution or Transmission Construction, Maintenance, or Electric Trouble crew and assisting with and/or performing high-voltage line work in and on high-voltage power poles, transmission towers, and underground electric substructures. Six months experience must be specific to assisting with and/or performing work at voltages of 4.16-kV and above; or
b. Six months of full-time experience performing electrical work on equipment and circuits in the maintenance or construction of electrical distribution systems while in the United States military; or
c. Eighteen months of full-time paid experience performing line clearance tree trimming; or
d. Eighteen months of full-time paid training and experience chipping around energized 4.8-kV and 34.5-kV electrical conduit systems; or
3. Certificate of completion of the Electrical Lineman Program from Northwest Lineman College; or
4. Certificate of completion of the Powerline Mechanic-Trainee Program from the Los Angeles Trade Technical College.
PROCESS NOTES
  1. All Electric Distribution Mechanics are required to drive commercial vehicles.
  2. Electric Distribution Mechanic (EDM) - Journey-Level
    1. California Residents and In-State Applicants: As a condition of employment, a valid Class A driver's license issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), along with a valid medical certificate approved by the DMV, is required at the time of appointment.
    2. Out-of-State Applicants: A valid commercial driver's license issued by a comparable state DMV, an official driving history record, and a valid medical certificate approved by the respective state DMV are required at the time of appointment. As a condition of employment, a valid Class A driver's license issued by the California DMV must be obtained within three months of appointment.
  3. EDM in Training (Trainee)
    1. All applicants (California Residents, In-State, and Out-of-State): As a condition of employment, a valid Class C driver's license issued by the California DMV (or comparable state issued driver's license) and an official driving history record are required at the time of appointment. Appointed trainees are given six months from the start of the temporary training program to obtain a valid Class A driver's license issued by the California DMV.
  4. Disqualification: Applicants will be disqualified or deemed ineligible for hire if their DMV record reflects three or more moving violations and/or at-fault accidents, or a conviction of a major moving violation (such as a DUI or DWI) within the last 36 months in any state or jurisdiction. The City of Los Angeles reserves the right to issue a notice of disqualification or ineligibility at any time before a final job offer is extended.
  5. All entry-level positions in this class are temporary training positions as defined in Civil Service Commission Rule 5.30. Trainees receive extensive classroom training as well as on-the-job training as a cable splicer and as a line mechanic. An Electric Distribution Mechanic must successfully complete an extensive on-the-job and classroom training program in order to receive an appointment to a regular Electric Distribution Mechanic position. It is anticipated that the training period will last up to 54 months.
  6. Applicants filing under Requirement #1 must submit an Apprenticeship Certificate at the time of filing. The certificate must be attached to the on-line application BEFORE the application is submitted. If the certificate is attached AFTER the on-line application has been submitted, it will not be available to the City and applicants WILL NOT be credited with having submitted the certificate. Applicants who fail to submit the certificate at the time of filing by attaching it to the on-line application will not be considered further in this examination.
  7. Applicants filing under Requirement #1 must submit proof of having a journey-level line worker card, such as an IBEW official receipt indicating the trade classification, at the time of filing. A copy of this proof must be attached to the on-line application BEFORE the application is submitted. If it is attached AFTER the on-line application has been submitted, it will not be available to the City and the applicant WILL NOT be credited with having submitted it. Applicants who fail to submit proof at the time of filing by attaching it to the on-line application will not be considered further in this examination.
  8. Applicants filing under Requirement #1 may be considered for direct appointment to a regular (journey-level) Electric Distribution Mechanic position and may waive the multiple-choice test but must achieve a passing score on the performance test to be placed on the eligible list. All other applicants must achieve a passing score on the qualifying multiple-choice test to be scheduled for the performance test.
  9. Applicants filing under Requirement #2 must submit a copy of their pole climbing proficiency certificate at the time of filing. A copy of the certificate must be attached to the on-line application BEFORE the application is submitted. If the certificate is attached AFTER the on-line application has been submitted, it will not be available to the City and the applicant WILL NOT be credited with submitting it. Applicants who fail to submit the certificate at the time of filing by attaching it to the on-line application will not be considered further in this examination.
  10. Applicants filing under Requirement #3 or #4 must submit a copy of their certificate of completion at the time of filing. A copy of the certificate must be attached to the on-line application BEFORE the application is submitted. If the certificate is attached AFTER the on-line application has been submitted, it will not be available to the City and the applicant WILL NOT be credited with submitting it. Applicants who fail to submit the certificate at the time of filing by attaching it to the on-line application will not be considered further in this examination.
  11. Active United States Military personnel may file for this examination; however, they cannot be appointed until they have completed their military service and have been discharged with satisfactory performance. Proof of military service and satisfactory performance must be provided prior to appointment.
  12. Applicants filing under Requirement #2b must submit at the time of filing their application a copy of their DD-214 or a copy of their military identification indicating an End of Active Obligated Service (EAOS) date within six months from the application date. The copy of the DD-214 or military identification with EAOS must be attached to the on-line application BEFORE the application is submitted. If the copy is attached AFTER the on-line application has been submitted, it will not be available to the City and applicants WILL NOT be credited with having submitted it. Applicants who fail to submit the DD-214 or military identification with EAOS at the time of filing by attaching it to the on-line application will not be considered further in this examination.
  13. An Electric Distribution Mechanic is required to utilize various tools and equipment while working in the confined area of an underground vault.
  14. Electric Distribution Mechanics are required to climb power poles and utilize various tools and equipment at the top of a pole.

SELECTIVE CERTIFICATION
In accordance with Charter Section 1010 (b) and Civil Service Rule 5.31, selective certification will be used for some positions that require special skills and/or training in one or more of the following areas. Only persons possessing the following at the time of filing may be considered for appointments to fill such positions.
Possession of a certificate of completion of an International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) accredited line worker training program and a valid journey-level line worker card issued by IBEW.
Applicants must attach a copy of the certificate of completion and valid journey-level line worker card to the on-line application at the time of filing. The certificate of completion and valid journey-level line worker card must be attached to the on-line application BEFORE the application is submitted. If the documents are attached AFTER the on-line application has been submitted, they will not be available to the City and applicants WILL NOT be credited with having submitted the documents. Applicants who fail to submit the documents at the time of filing by not attaching it to the on-line application will not be considered for this part of selective certification.
WHERE TO APPLY & APPLICATION DEADLINE
Applications will only be accepted on-line. When you are viewing the on-line bulletin of your choice, simply scroll to the top of the page and select the "Apply"; icon.
Applicants who are applying under Requirement #1 may access the on-line job bulletin at This bulletin is only for candidates who will submit a copy of their certificate of completion of an International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) accredited line worker training program and journey-level line worker card at the time of filing.
Entry-level applicants who are applying under Requirement #2, #3, or #4 may access the on-line job bulletin at This bulletin is only for candidates who will not be submitting their journey-level line worker card at the time of filing.
NOTE:
Applicants are urged to apply early to ensure you have time to resolve any technical issues you may encounter if you apply on-line.
APPLICATION DEADLINE
This examination may close without prior notice at any time after a sufficient number of applications have been received. For administrative purposes, filing may close periodically and reopen the following day.
In accordance with Civil Service Rule 4.2, all applicants who apply may not be tested in this examination. To meet anticipated hiring needs, only a limited number of qualified applicants will be invited to participate in the selection process in the following order: 1) Applicants currently employed by the City of Los Angeles who meet the minimum requirements, or are on a reserve list; 2) Remaining applicants who meet the minimum requirements in sufficient numbers to meet hiring needs based on a ra