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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 3, 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 July 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.

Electrical Line Mechanic Supervisor II

City of Glendale (CA)

Glendale, CA โ€ข On-site

$10K - $15K/mo

Other

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

The Position OPEN & PROMOTIONAL EAMINATION- ONE-YEAR PROBATIONARY PERIOD Under general direction, this mid-management classification has general supervisory oversight of crews performing work in the construction, maintenance and repair of overhead and underground electrical transmission, distribution, and street light systems associated with an electric utility system. Essential functions of the job include, but are not limited to, the following: Ensures Department services are provided with exceptional customer service and the highest level of ethical standards. Plans, supervises, and directs crews in the construction and maintenance of overhead and underground electrical utility systems.

Reviews and evaluates employee job performance, ensures the proper application of safety procedures, and recommends appropriate personnel action. Supervises the construction of underground duct lines, vaults, and pole risers. Supervises the splicing and termination of low and high voltage underground cables and equipment in transformer vaults, electrical substations, and on pole risers.

Supervises crews in the construction, maintenance, and repair of overhead electrical systems and equipment, placing and removing cross arms, stringing wires, tapping wires, replacing cross arms and wires, placing, replacing, and washing insulators on poles and in substations, and installing transformers and all types of high voltage equipment and devices. Oversees the work of crews involved in pole setting, tree trimming, power line clearance, insulator washing, and others. Oversees crews involved in street light installation, repair, and maintenance.

Assists the design section in determining best ways to build overhead lines and underground vaults to accomplish planned utility system changes. Reads and interprets electrical plans and maps; may determine and draw the location of service facilities on plans. Meets with developer or customer to explain the nature and need for the work to be performed on or near customer's property.

Drives a city vehicle to and from the work site. Attends or conducts required Safety training including hazardous materials training and keeps informed of current practices and procedures relating to maintenance, construction and repair of an electrical utility system. Supervises cleanup and disposal of hazardous materials related to an electrical utility system.

May assume duties of Electrical Superintendent in his/her absence. Assumes responsibility for ensuring the duties of this position are performed in a safe, efficient manner. Performs other related duties as assigned or as the situation requires.

Minimum Requirements An equivalent combination of experience and education sufficient to perform the essential job functions and provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. Experience Three years experience as a lead worker in a classification equivalent to Electrical Line Mechanic Supervisor I, in the maintenance and construction of an electrical utility system. Employees in the classification of Powerline Supervisor II or Electrical Mechanic Supervisor II must meet all required elements of the Electrical Line Mechanic Apprenticeship Program.

Education/Training Graduation from high school or equivalent. License(s)/Certification(s) Valid California Class C driver's license. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Knowledge of: Applicable safety rules and regulations for the construction, maintenance and repair of electric utility systems.

California Public Utilities Commission General Orders (G.O.) 95 and 128. Construction, maintenance and operation practices and procedures on electrical utility systems. National Electric Code

O.S.H.A. Rules and Regulations. Ability to: Provide exceptional customer service to all employees and vendors

Model and practice the highest standards of ethical conduct. Communicate in English, both orally and in writing. Develop necessary skills from on-the-job training and meet the standards of performance for the classification by the end of the probationary period.

Differentiate between different colors. Effectively supervise subordinates. Establish and maintain smooth and effective working relationships.

Foster a teamwork environment. Lead, coach, instruct, and motivate employees. Maintain a strong customer service environment.

Organize, assign, and schedule workload among employees. Provide clear work instructions. Read, understand, and interpret electrical plans.

Review and evaluate employee job performance and recommend and carry out appropriate personnel action. Other Characteristics Willingness to: Work overtime as requested or required. Assume responsibility for maintaining a safe working environment.

Initiate, recommend, and carry out personnel actions. Special Conditions Employees in this classification, who are required by applicable laws and regulations to have respiratory protection, shall comply with the American National Standards Institute's (ANSI) requirements on Practices for Respiratory Protection. Promotional Eligibility Any City of Glendale employee who meets the minimum qualifications for this position, has completed probation or six months of City employment, and is occupying a permanent full-time classification.

Hourly City employees may be considered, provided that they furnish proof of continuous employment immediately preceding the final filing date, which would equal a minimum of six months of full-time service or 1040 part-time hours. (Civil Service Rule VIII 4-E). Exceptional Customer Service Policy The City of Glendale values quality customer service and takes pride in the exceptional service provided by every employee.

As a part of the Glendale team, we are dedicated to delivering courteous, considerate, and personalized attention to our diverse community and to one another. Please click on the link to read the Exceptional Customer Service Policy. Selection Process EVALUATION OF APPLICATION: Submitted Application will be reviewed to ensure applicants meet the minimum requirements.

Only the most qualified applicants will be invited to participate in the selection process. Candidates must pass each exam component with a minimum score of 70% in order to be placed on the eligible list. ORAL INTERVIEW:(Weight of 100%) To evaluate the applicant's experience, education, and personal fitness for the position.

TIME AND PLACE OF THE EXAMINATION WILL BE ANNOUNCED. Evaluations will be based on the candidate's education and experience relevant to the position. Examinations will assess evaluate the candidate's education, experience, knowledge and skills related to the job.

The City of Glendale reserves the right to modify the examination components or their weighting. If changes are necessary, candidates will be informed of the specific examination components and their weight before the examination is administered. The selected candidate will undergo a background check, including Livescan fingerprinting.

The City of Glendale complies with state and federal obligations to provide reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with special needs are encouraged to inform the Human Resources Department at least five days before the first examination to ensure reasonable accommodations can be arranged. The provisions of this bulletin do not constitute an express or implied contract.