1

Electrical Trainee Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Be Seen First

Current California Electrical Trainee (ET) Card * Previous electrical experience * Basic electrical tools * Reliable transportation * Available to start immediately Apply today if you are interested ...

Apprentice Electrician

Culver City, CA · On-site

$25 - $34.50/hr

Enrollment in or completion of an accredited electrical trainee program * Basic understanding of electrical principles and construction practices * Ability to read and interpret blueprints, wiring ...

Electrician

San Clemente, CA · On-site

$38 - $40/hr

Must possess a valid and active Electrical Trainee Card or State Journeyman Electrician License * Minimum of 6 years of commercial electrical experience * Proficiency in: * Running MC cable * Bending ...

Licensed Residential Electrician

San Diego, CA · On-site

$32 - $36/hr (+ commission)

Electrical Trainee (ET Card) may be considered depending on experience level. * 3-6 years of field experience in residential and light commercial work * Strong knowledge of NEC and California ...

Electrician

Torrance, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

REQUIREMENTS FOR AN ELECTRICIANJourneyman card or electrical trainee cardExcellent customer service skillsExperience with refrigeration is a plus, but not required.A LITTLE ABOUT US:Our company was ...

Electrician

Torrance, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Journeyman card or electrical trainee card * Excellent customer service skills Experience with refrigeration is a plus, but not required. A LITTLE ABOUT US: Our company was started in 1974 and is ...

Licensed Residential Electrician

San Diego, CA · On-site

$32 - $36/hr (+ commission)

Electrical Trainee (ET Card) may be considered depending on experience level. * 3-6 years of field experience in residential and light commercial work * Strong knowledge of NEC and California ...

Electrician

Torrance, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Journeyman card or electrical trainee card * Excellent customer service skills Experience with refrigeration is a plus, but not required. A LITTLE ABOUT US: Our company was started in 1974 and is ...

Showing results 21-40

Electrical Trainee information

See California salary details

$10

$20

$33

How much do electrical trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for electrical trainee in California is $20.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.59 and $25.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an electrical trainee?

Electrical trainees are individuals who are learning the trade of electrical work under the supervision of licensed electricians. They typically work on job sites to gain hands-on experience while also completing classroom instruction to meet state or local requirements. Electrical trainees often assist with installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems in residential, commercial, or industrial settings. They are required to register with the appropriate governing body and must work under supervision until they achieve the necessary qualifications to become licensed electricians.

What types of projects and daily tasks can an electrical trainee expect to work on, and how do they collaborate with more experienced electricians?

As an Electrical Trainee, you’ll typically assist journeyman and master electricians on a variety of residential, commercial, or industrial projects—ranging from wiring new buildings to performing routine maintenance. Daily tasks often include pulling wire, installing outlets or fixtures, troubleshooting circuits, and adhering to safety procedures. Collaboration is key: trainees work closely with mentors who provide hands-on guidance and feedback, helping them develop technical skills and understand project workflows. This team-oriented environment not only builds confidence but also prepares trainees for greater responsibility as they gain experience.

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

To thrive as an Electrical Trainee, you generally need a high school diploma or GED, basic math skills, and enrollment in or completion of an apprenticeship or electrical training program. Familiarity with electrical hand tools, wiring diagrams, and safety protocols, as well as OSHA 10 certification, are often required. Strong attention to detail, willingness to learn, teamwork, and effective communication help trainees excel on job sites. These skills ensure safe, accurate work and smooth collaboration while building a foundation for advancement as a licensed electrician.

What is the difference between Electrical Trainee vs Electrician?

AspectElectrical TraineeElectrician
QualificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic electrical knowledge; often in training or apprenticeshipCompleted apprenticeship or technical training; licensed or certified in many regions
Work EnvironmentSupervised, entry-level tasks, often in training programsIndependent or team work on installations, repairs, and maintenance
Job RoleLearning and assisting with electrical work under supervisionPerforming electrical installations, troubleshooting, and repairs independently

The main difference between an Electrical Trainee and an Electrician is experience and certification. Electrical Trainees are in training, gaining skills under supervision, while Electricians are fully qualified professionals capable of working independently. Both roles are essential in the electrical industry, with trainees progressing toward becoming licensed Electricians.

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

The most popular types of Electrical jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Electrical Trainee jobs?

Cities in California with the most Electrical Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Electrical 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 $42,716 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Control Panel Builder/Industrial Electrical Technician

Norchem

Bell Gardens, CA • On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

About Norchem
For over 40 years, Norchem has been at the forefront of innovation in the textile services industry-delivering advanced water, chemical, and software solutions that reduce environmental impact while maximizing performance.
We're not just another industrial company-we're pioneers. From cold-water cleaning systems to automated VFD injection technology, crossflow filtration, and plant-wide data systems, Norchem has consistently introduced breakthrough technologies that reshape how facilities operate.
Our culture is built on trust, ingenuity, and a drive to solve complex challenges. If you enjoy working on meaningful systems that blend electrical engineering, automation, and sustainability-you'll fit right in.
The Opportunity
Norchem is a C-10 Contractor looking for a hands-on Controls Technician (PLC & Panel Building) who thrives in a fast-paced, problem-solving environment. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys building, troubleshooting, and bringing automated systems to life-from the shop floor to field installations. We value a practical, no-nonsense work environment where good ideas win!
You'll play a key role in assembling and maintaining the control systems that power Norchem's cutting-edge solutions.
Location: Bell Gardens, CA
Schedule: Monday-Friday, 6:00 AM to 2:30 PM (overtime eligible as needed).
Benefits Include:
  • Medical, Dental Vision and Life Insurance (94-100% of employee premiums covered on select plans)
  • 401(k) pre-tax/ROTH plans with Employer Safe Harbor Match
  • PTO and STO
  • Federal Holidays
  • Company Work Uniforms
  • Expense reimbursement for work boots

What You'll Do
  • Build and wire UL508A control panels using schematics and I/O lists
  • Assemble and integrate PLCs, relays, drives, and control components
  • Troubleshoot and repair industrial electrical systems (motors, VFDs, relays, PLCs)
  • Execute BOM, I/O, and PID specifications for electrical panel builds and installation projects.
  • Perform quality control tests and inspect systems for quality, safety, and code compliance
  • Interpret electrical schematics, manuals, and work orders
  • Collaborate with engineering and production teams to deliver high-quality automated systems
  • Opportunity to work on field installations, commissioning, and real-world system startups

What You Bring
  • 3-5 years of hands-on experience in electrical, automation, or electromechanical work
  • Experience with control panel building and PLC/HMI-based systems is desired.
  • Working knowledge of UL508A standards and industrial control wiring
  • Ability to read and interpret schematics, blueprints, and wiring diagrams
  • Familiarity with motors, VFDs, and industrial electrical components
  • Strong troubleshooting mindset and attention to detail
  • Comfortable working both independently and as part of a team
  • Electrical Trainee (ET), be an indentured apprentice, or a certified electrician preferred, not required.

Why Join Norchem?
  • Work on innovative, real-world automation systems-not repetitive production lines
  • Be part of a company focused on sustainability and industry disruption
  • Gain exposure to cutting-edge technologies in water treatment and industrial automation
  • Join a collaborative, tight-knit team where your ideas matter
  • Opportunities to grow your technical skillset across electrical, controls, and systems integration

Norchem Corp is an Equal Opportunity Employer, drug free workplace, and complies with ADA regulations as applicable.