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Electrical Plc Apprentice Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

Electrical Plc Apprentice information

See Waterloo, IA salary details

$11

$22

$35

How much do electrical plc apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for electrical plc apprentice in Waterloo, IA is $22.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $24.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an electrical PLC apprentice do?

An Electrical PLC Apprentice assists experienced technicians and engineers in installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and related electrical systems in industrial settings. Their work often includes wiring, programming basic PLC functions, and learning how to interpret technical diagrams and schematics. Apprentices gain hands-on experience while studying safety procedures and the fundamentals of automation and control systems. Over time, they develop the skills necessary to operate and repair complex machinery used in manufacturing and process industries.

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

To thrive as an Electrical PLC Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of electrical systems, wiring, and programmable logic controllers (PLCs), typically supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with PLC programming software such as Siemens, Allen-Bradley, and troubleshooting tools is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication help apprentices collaborate with experienced technicians and learn quickly. These skills are crucial for safely supporting automation projects and ensuring reliable operation of industrial control systems.

What are some common challenges faced by electrical PLC apprentices during their training period?

Electrical PLC Apprentices often encounter challenges such as understanding complex wiring diagrams, troubleshooting control systems under time constraints, and adapting to rapidly evolving automation technologies. Balancing hands-on learning with theoretical instruction can also be demanding, especially when transitioning from classroom concepts to real-world applications. However, these challenges are excellent opportunities for growth, as apprentices receive guidance from experienced technicians and gradually take on more responsibility within the team.

What is the difference between Electrical Plc Apprentice vs Electrical Technician?

AspectElectrical Plc ApprenticeElectrical Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a vocational or technical diploma, on-the-job training, and basic certificationsRequires a diploma or associate degree in electrical technology, with additional certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, manufacturing plants, or industrial settings during trainingMaintenance, troubleshooting, and repair in industrial, commercial, or manufacturing environments
Job FocusLearning PLC programming, wiring, and basic electrical systems under supervisionDiagnosing electrical issues, maintaining systems, and implementing repairs

Electrical Plc Apprentices are in training to learn PLC systems and basic electrical work, while Electrical Technicians are experienced professionals responsible for system maintenance and troubleshooting. Both roles are essential in industrial settings, with apprentices focusing on learning and technicians on executing electrical tasks.

What are popular job titles related to Electrical Plc Apprentice jobs in Waterloo, IA?

For Electrical Plc Apprentice jobs in Waterloo, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Waterloo, IA are hiring for Electrical Plc Apprentice jobs?

Cities near Waterloo, IA with the most Electrical Plc Apprentice job openings:

Infographic showing various Electrical Plc Apprentice job openings in Waterloo, IA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,787 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

Multi-Craft Industrial Maintenance Technician

International Paper Company

Waterloo, IA • On-site

$35.70 - $37.71/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


International Paper rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 298 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

323rd of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description


Multi-Craft Industrial Maintenance Technician
Pay Rate:
Level 2 $32.85
Level 3 $35.70
Level 4 $37.71
Level 5 $41.13
For a realistic preview of working for International Paper, please copy the links below to watch two short videos.
https://vimeo.com/677324578/6d7ca1d97a
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oAS_aV1D_1I
Category/Shift:
Hourly Full-Time 12-hour Night Shifts
3/2 Schedule (In essence working 3 days one week and 4 days the next week)
Candidates must be willing to work alternative shifts, weekends and overtime as required. Must have own tools- industry specific tools supplied.
Physical Location:
800 W Parker St
Waterloo, IA 50703
319-236-7115
The Job You Will Perform:
  • Installs, repairs, and maintains machinery and mechanical equipment.
  • Troubleshoot and repair Electrical, Mechanical, Hydraulic, and Pneumatic Systems.
  • Locates sources of problems by observing mechanical devices in operation.
  • Disassembles machinery and removes/replaces defective parts.
  • Determines when wear items are due to be replaced by measuring and inspecting during preventative maintenance.
  • Uses SAP to account for time worked and to issue parts from storeroom.
  • Use SAP to view work notifications and create work orders.
  • Requests repair parts by finding part numbers in OEM prints.
  • Maintains a safe and clean work environment by complying with procedures, rules, and regulations.
  • Monitor and maintain high pressure boiler system.
  • Conduct maintenance tasks such as replacing light bulbs
  • Check functionality of safety systems (e.g. fire alarm)
  • Troubleshoot PLC s, VFDs, DC Drives, and touchscreens.
  • Trouble shoot and replace AC & DC motor systems.
  • Locating problems through close observation of machinery and staff practices.
  • Controlling downtime by communicating with supervisors to plan needed repairs.
  • Ensuring all procedures and processes adhere to health and safety regulations.
  • Conduct daily PM and machine condition monitoring tasks, and document findings in SAP.
  • Troubleshoot and repair shipping equipment- power strapping machines, forklifts, pusher attachments, dock locks and levelers.

The Skills You Will Bring:
  • Minimum qualifications for consideration are a high school degree (or equivalent experience)
  • At least one year of maintenance experience is preferred with at least one year with the same employer.
  • Preferred candidates would possess a technical degree or apprenticeship certification and maintenance experience in the corrugated industry or similar manufacturing environment.

Candidates selected for further processing will be required to complete an online proctored test on job-related skills, a hands-on interview, background check, drug screen, and pre-employment health assessment.
About Us
The Benefits You Will Enjoy:
International Paper offers a benefits package that includes health, welfare and retirement plans including Medical, Dental, Life insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts, Short-term and Long-term Disability, 401(k), Company-funded retirement contributions, Paid Time Off, Education & Development (including Tuition Reimbursement), Student Loan Repayment Assistance, and Voluntary Benefits including insurance for home, auto, vision and pets
The Career You Will Build:
Leadership training, promotional opportunities
The Impact You Will Make:
We continue to build a better future for people, the planet, and our company! IP has been a good steward of sustainable practices across communities around the world for more than 125 years. Join our team and you'll see why our team members say they're Proud to be IP.
The Culture You Will Experience:
International Paper promotes employee well-being by providing safe, caring and inclusive workplaces. We have team members all around the world with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. These are our strengths. We are committed to creating a culture where all individuals are respected, valued, engaged and have an opportunity to do their best work every day. We invite you to bring your uniqueness, creativity, talents, experiences, and safety mindset to be a part of our increasingly inclusive and diverse culture.
The Company You Will Join:
International Paper (NYSE: IP; LSE: IPC) creates sustainable packaging solutions that enable our customers, teammates and shareowners to thrive in an ever-changing world. We are a leader in corrugated packaging, partnering with customers across industries to protect what matters most, strengthen supply chains and create lasting value. Learn more at internationalpaper.com.
International Paper is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law. International Paper complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact reasonable.accommodations@ipaper.com or (877) 973-3919.

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About International Paper

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

International Paper is a leading global supplier of renewable fiber-based products. We produce corrugated packaging products that protect and promote goods, and enable worldwide commerce, and pulp for diapers, tissue and other personal care products that promote health and wellness. Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., we employ approximately 38,000 colleagues globally. We serve customers worldwide, with manufacturing operations in North America, Latin America, North Africa and Europe. Net sales for 2021 were $19.4 billion.

Industry

Paper manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Memphis, TN, US

Year founded

1898