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Construction Trainee Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Pape Machinery Inc C&F

Technician Trainee

Fremont, CA

$29.79 - $48.74/hr

PAPE' MACHINERY, INC. - CONSTRUCTION & FORESTRY DIVISION - FREMONT, CA TECHNICIAN TRAINEE : Do you love turning wrenches? Are you looking to further establish your career as a Technician? As a ...

GRID ALTERNATIVES

Construction Assistant

Los Angeles, CA

$22 - $24/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Train and mentor volunteers and job trainees in solar installation and other construction related activities * Work under the direct supervision of the Solar Installation Supervisor to ensure that ...

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All JobsConstruction JobsConstruction Trainee JobsConstruction Trainee Jobs in California

Construction Trainee information

See California salary details

$25.2K

$43K

$62.7K

How much do construction trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for construction trainee in California is $42,960.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,600.00 and $50,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a construction trainee?

Construction trainees are individuals who are new to the construction industry and are undergoing practical and theoretical training to learn various construction skills. They typically work under the supervision of experienced professionals and may rotate through different roles on a construction site to gain hands-on experience. The goal is to prepare them for more specialized or advanced positions within the field by providing foundational knowledge in safety, tools, equipment, and building techniques.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a construction trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Construction Trainee, you need basic knowledge of construction methods, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand and power tools, and sometimes certifications like OSHA 10, are typically expected. Strong work ethic, willingness to learn, teamwork, and attention to detail are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safety, efficiency, and successful integration into construction teams while building foundational industry knowledge.

What types of projects and tasks can a construction trainee expect to work on during the first year?

As a Construction Trainee, you can expect to be involved in a variety of tasks, from assisting with site preparation and basic carpentry to supporting experienced tradespeople with equipment setup and safety checks. You'll likely rotate through different teams and phases of construction to gain hands-on experience in areas like framing, concrete pouring, and finishing work. This exposure helps you understand the full construction process and develop practical skills under the supervision of seasoned professionals. Additionally, you'll participate in safety meetings and training sessions, which are essential for your growth and advancement in the industry.

What is the difference between Construction Trainee vs Construction Apprentice?

AspectConstruction TraineeConstruction Apprentice
CredentialsOften no formal certification required, may include basic safety trainingRequires apprenticeship program enrollment, often with certifications like OSHA
Work EnvironmentOn-site, supervised learning environmentOn-site, hands-on training with mentorship
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by construction companies for entry-level trainingCommonly used in union and non-union construction settings for skill development

Construction Trainees are typically individuals starting in the industry, focusing on gaining basic skills and safety knowledge. Construction Apprentices are enrolled in formal apprenticeship programs, combining paid work with classroom instruction to develop specific trade skills. While both roles involve on-site work and training, apprentices usually have more structured learning paths and certifications, making them more advanced in their training journey.

How do I get a construction trainee job with no experience?

Construction trainee positions often do not require prior experience and focus on training on-site skills, safety protocols, and basic tools. To improve chances, applicants should demonstrate a willingness to learn, have a good work ethic, and consider obtaining relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training. Starting as a laborer or helper can also provide valuable experience and lead to trainee opportunities.

What is the easiest construction trainee job to get?

Entry-level construction trainee positions that do not require prior experience or specialized certifications are generally the easiest to obtain. These roles often involve basic tasks like site cleanup, material handling, or assisting skilled workers, and may require a high school diploma or equivalent. Having a willingness to learn and physical stamina can improve chances of securing such positions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Construction jobs in California?

The most popular types of Construction jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Construction Trainee jobs in California?

For Construction Trainee jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Construction Trainee jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Construction Trainee jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Construction Trainee jobs?

Cities in California with the most Construction Trainee job openings:

Construction Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Construction Trainee 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 $42,960 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

PowerPathway Trainee

Pacific Gas and Electric Company

Richmond, CA • On-site

$24/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Pacific Gas and Electric Company rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 53 rated energy and utility

Job description

Requisition ID # 173935
Job Category: Maintenance / Construction / Operations
Job Level: Individual Contributor
Business Unit: Energy Delivery
Work Type: Onsite
Job Location: Richmond; American Canyon; Cupertino; Merced; Milpitas; Oakland; Rio Vista; San Francisco; San Jose; Stockton
Position Summary
PowerPathway is a nationally acclaimed pre-apprenticeship program created by Pacific Gas and Electric Company in 2008. The program provides a combination of in-person classroom and hands-on training for careers in the energy industry. Since inception, PowerPathway has delivered over 61 signature workforce development programs throughout Northern and Central California and trained over 1,380 people.
We are looking for energetic career-oriented candidates who are passionate about building a career in the energy industry, committed to continuous learning, and ready to put in the work to grow professionally to serve their hometowns. PowerPathway is currently looking to fill positions in the Entry to Gas Pipeline Operations and Maintenance (GPOM) program as a PowerPathway Trainee.
This is a paid trainee position designed to provide participants with structured, hands-on experience and career readiness development. Participation in the program is intended to support preparation for potential future employment opportunities; however, successful completion of the program and trainee period does not guarantee offers of permanent or continued employment with PG&E. Employment decisions are made in accordance with applicable company policies, collective bargaining agreements, and all federal, state, and local equal employment opportunity (EEO) laws.
As a PowerPathway Trainee in the Entry to GPOM program, training focuses on preventive, compliance, and regulatory maintenance; repairs; system reconfiguration; emergency response; and providing project and construction support across PG&E's gas transmission and distribution system.
This position will require 100% in-person attendance for training in Oakland, Winters and San Ramon, CA. In addition, this position requires in person attendance for field training at respective regions in American Canyon, Rio Vista, Oakland, Richmond, San Francisco, San Jose, Milpitas, Cupertino, Merced and Stockton.
PG&E provides the hourly rate that the company in good faith believes it might pay for this position at the time of the job posting. The hourly rate for this position is $24.00.
Responsibilities
  • Attend in-person training sessions everyday Monday-Friday, with schedules varying by location.
  • Maintain reliable transportation to travel to multiple PG&E worksites across the service territory.
  • Must always work safely and comply with PG&E's safety standards and procedures.
  • Follow the direction of their instructors, crew leader and/or supervisor to support safe and effective operations.
  • Must work in a team environment and collaborate effectively as a contributing member of a group.
  • Use tablets, laptops, and other technologies to complete training and coursework.
  • Demonstrate competency through written assessments and hands-on practical evaluations.
  • Safely operate hand & power tools in an outdoors work environment.
  • Work in confined spaces, vaults, and trenches.
  • Maintain professional conduct consistent with utility industry workplace standards.
  • Receive and apply recommendations from staff to improve performance and career readiness.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Must possess a High School diploma or GED.
  • Must be able to wear company provided Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
  • Must be able to lift and maneuver up to 75 pounds
  • Must be able to pass Post Offer Physical Assessment.
  • Ability to work extended hours to include nights, weekends, and holidays when required.
  • Must possess and maintain a valid Class C California Driver's License (or higher) by Day 1 of hire
  • Ability to work in all types of weather extremes.
  • Ability to drive safely in all weather and road conditions.

Desired Qualifications:
  • At least 6 months of experience or training in the construction trades related to excavation, carpentry, plumbing, electric, HVAC, oil, gas, welding, and automotive.
  • Community college degree or course work in Career Technical Education (CTE).
  • Graduate of a pre-apprenticeship or MC3 curriculum based trade school.
  • Military service
  • Class A Driver's License
  • PG&E is a proponent of hiring from our hometowns. Residents of specific counties within training locations will be given preference.

Pre-Employment Testing
PG&E Employees: You must have qualified on all prerequisite tests prior to submitting an application, and all secondary tests prior to interviewing. For more information on prerequisite and secondary exams, including study guides, please visit the pre-employment testing program website.
  • Physical Test Battery
  • Work Orientation Inventory-Physical/Technical Driving
  • Post Offer Physical Assessment-Utility Worker

Purpose, Virtues and Stands
Our Purpose explains "why" we exist:
  • Delivering for our hometowns
  • Serving our planet
  • Leading with love

Our Virtues capture "who" we need to be:
  • Trustworthy
  • Empathetic
  • Curious
  • Tenacious
  • Nimble
  • Owners

Our Stands are "what" we will achieve together:
  • Everyone and everything is always safe
  • Catastrophic wildfires shall stop
  • It is enjoyable to work with and for PG&E
  • Clean and resilient energy for all
  • Our work shall create prosperity for all customers and investors

More About Our Company
EEO
Pacific Gas and Electric Company is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer that actively pursues and hires a workforce that reflects the hometowns we serve. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, age, religion, physical or mental disability status, medical condition, protected veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information or any other factor that is not related to the job.
Employee Privacy Notice The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) goes into effect on January 1, 2020. CCPA grants new and far-reaching privacy rights to all California residents. The law also entitles job applicants, employees and non-employee workers to be notified of what personal information PG&E collects and for what purpose. The Employee Privacy Notice can be accessed through the following link: Employee Privacy Notice
PG&E will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records for employment in a manner consistent with all state and local laws.

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