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Entry Level Trade Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Fabrication Associate - Entry Level

Lake Elsinore, CA ยท On-site

$36K - $48K/yr

Commercial/Mechanical, Facilities Supply, Fire and Fabrication, HVAC, Industrial, Residential Trade ... Ferguson is seeking a Fabrication Associate - Entry Level to join our team! Schedule: M-F 5:00am-1 ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Trade information

See California salary details

$11

$25

$46

How much do entry level trade jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level trade in California is $25.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $30.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are entry level trade jobs?

Entry level trade jobs are positions in skilled trades that require little to no prior experience or formal education. These jobs often provide on-the-job training or apprenticeships, allowing individuals to learn valuable skills while working. Common entry level trade roles include electrician apprentice, plumbing assistant, HVAC helper, and construction laborer. Such positions are a great way to start a rewarding career in the trades, with opportunities for advancement and increased earnings as you gain experience and certifications.

What does a typical day look like for someone in an entry level trade position?

In an entry-level trade role, your day often starts early and involves a mix of hands-on tasks such as assisting with installations, repairs, or maintenance, depending on the specific trade. You'll work closely under the supervision of more experienced tradespeople, learning industry standards and safety protocols. The work environment is usually fast-paced and can vary between indoor and outdoor settings. Collaboration with team members is essential, as you'll often help with tools, materials, and project setup or cleanup. Over time, you'll gain new skills and take on more responsibility, paving the way for career advancement within the trade.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level trade worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Trade worker, you need basic mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with many roles preferring completion of a trade-specific apprenticeship or training program. Familiarity with hand and power tools, safety equipment, and sometimes certifications like OSHA 10 are commonly required. Strong work ethic, reliability, and willingness to learn are standout soft skills in this field. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring job safety, quality craftsmanship, and career advancement in skilled trades.

How to start an entry level trade with no experience?

To start an entry level trade job with no experience, focus on gaining basic skills through vocational training, apprenticeships, or certification programs relevant to the trade. Many employers value a strong work ethic and willingness to learn, and some may offer on-the-job training or entry-level positions that do not require prior experience.

What is the best entry level trade job with no experience?

Entry-level trade jobs such as apprentice electrician, construction laborer, or HVAC assistant typically require no prior experience and offer on-the-job training. These roles often involve physical work, basic skills, and may require a high school diploma or equivalent; certifications or licenses are usually obtained during employment.

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

The most popular types of Trade jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Trade jobs in California?

For Entry Level Trade jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Trade jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Trade jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Trade jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Trade job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Trade job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,925 per year, or $25.9 per hour.

$74K - $94K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Key responsibilities

  • Coordinate work with project owner representatives, architects, engineers, inspectors, and site subcontractors, and direct the work of all trades on the construction site.

  • Manage estimating, bidding processes, and track costs to ensure the project stays within budget.

  • Review project drawings, specifications, submittals, and change orders, and document the technical, financial, and personnel aspects of each project.


Job description


Please note:
  • The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including the disabled and veterans.

Whiting-Turner Entry-Level Engineers are team members who help manage all aspects of construction projects. Reporting to a Project Manager and/or a Superintendent, the Entry-Level Engineer's major duties include:
  • Coordinating work with project owner representatives, architects, engineers, inspectors, and site subcontractors and/or directing the work of all trades assigned to a construction work site.
  • Managing estimating and bidding processes and tracking costs to manage project budget.
  • Resolving and clarifying design issues.
  • Identifying and resolving field issues and change orders.
  • Writing contracts and purchase orders using company boilerplate language to document all ordered work, schedules, projected costs, change orders and technical specifications.
  • Participating in meetings to coordinate work and manage labor concerns.
  • Ensuring work is completed in accordance with quality standards and contract specifications.
  • Implementing project schedules including each task associated with project completion.
  • Documenting the technical, financial and personnel aspects of each project.
  • Reviewing project drawings, specifications, submittals and change orders.
  • Reviewing each trade's work progress with respect to each project phase.
  • Providing field support to construction superintendents to help ensure contract compliance, quality control and maintenance of the site.
  • Tracking project phase completion against milestones.
  • Setting expectations for managing a safe work site.
  • Documenting each phase of the project.

Required Skills
Whiting-Turner will train qualified candidates to develop:
  • General knowledge of safety regulations, ANSI standards, local and state building codes, environmental codes, availability of industry-specific codes and guidelines.
  • General knowledge of general construction processes, practices and work sites.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Project, Suretrak, Primavera (or other scheduling software.

Required Experience
Basic qualifications for Entry-Level Engineer candidates include:
  • Bachelor of Science in an Engineering discipline, Engineering Technology or Construction Management, Construction Technology.
  • Knowledge of engineering principles.
  • Knowledge of basic business principles sufficient to project and monitor expenses.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite including Word and Excel.
  • Ability to read and understand technical specifications, blueprints, technical manuals, product/material installation instructions and engineering/architectural drawings.
  • Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing
  • Experience with construction projects, mechanical/electrical systems, building materials, building mechanics or working with craft workers.

This job application routes to following locations:
    • Sacramento
    • Pleasanton
    • Millbrae
    • Sherman Oaks
    • Downtown Los Angeles
    • Irvine
    • Temecula
    • San Diego

The Company's salary ranges are dependent on a number of factors including but not limited to role, level and location. Individual pay is determined through interviews and an assessment of various factors, including but not limited to job-related skills, relevant education and experience, applicant's abilities and market and business considerations. The annual base salary range listed is subject to change at any time, in the Company's discretion, and does not alter in any way the at-will nature of the employment relationship. The foregoing information reflects base salary only and does not include other forms of available compensation to which employees may be entitled including but not limited to profit sharing, stock appreciation rights, retirement compensation, travel subsistence, and other compensations/benefits, which are dependent upon various factors including but not limited to years of service, location, performance, etc.
This salary range is for California only.