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Trade Apprentice Jobs in Wenatchee, WA (NOW HIRING)

Trade Apprentice information

See Wenatchee, WA salary details

$12

$24

$38

How much do trade apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for trade apprentice in Wenatchee, WA is $24.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $27.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a trade apprentice?

A Trade Apprentice job is an entry-level position where individuals receive hands-on training in a skilled trade while working under experienced professionals. Apprentices typically earn a wage while learning and may also complete classroom instruction to gain technical knowledge. These roles are common in industries like construction, electrical work, plumbing, and manufacturing. The apprenticeship period varies by trade but often lasts from one to four years. Upon completion, apprentices may receive certification or licensure, allowing them to work as fully qualified tradespeople.

What types of projects and tasks can I expect to work on as a trade apprentice?

As a Trade Apprentice, you'll typically assist experienced tradespeople with a variety of hands-on tasks, such as preparing materials, using basic tools, and following instructions to complete job-related assignments. Your daily duties may include measuring and cutting materials, assembling parts, maintaining equipment, and cleaning up work areas. You'll gain direct exposure to different aspects of the trade, learning both practical skills and industry standards. This on-the-job training, combined with occasional classroom instruction, helps you gradually take on more complex responsibilities and build a strong foundation for future advancement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the trade apprentice position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Trade Apprentice, you need a foundational understanding of your chosen trade (such as electrical, plumbing, or carpentry), a high school diploma or equivalent, and a willingness to learn on the job. Familiarity with hand and power tools, safety equipment, and industry-specific training or certifications (like OSHA 10) is often required. Strong work ethic, attention to detail, teamwork, and good communication set top apprentices apart. These skills and qualities are essential for mastering technical tasks safely, adapting to evolving work environments, and building a successful career in the trades.

What is the best trade to apprentice in?

The best trade to apprentice in depends on individual interests and job market demand; popular options include electrical, plumbing, HVAC, carpentry, and welding. These trades often offer good job stability, earning potential, and opportunities for certification and specialization. Choosing a trade aligned with personal skills and local industry needs can lead to a successful career.

What are the most commonly searched types of Trade jobs in Wenatchee, WA?

The most popular types of Trade jobs in Wenatchee, WA are:

What job categories do people searching Trade Apprentice jobs in Wenatchee, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Trade Apprentice jobs in Wenatchee, WA are:

What cities near Wenatchee, WA are hiring for Trade Apprentice jobs?

Cities near Wenatchee, WA with the most Trade Apprentice job openings:

Infographic showing various Trade Apprentice job openings in Wenatchee, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,194 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

High Voltage Substation Operator Apprentice I

U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)

East Wenatchee, WA • On-site

$49.24/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Participate in a formal apprenticeship program consisting of 7 steps over 3 1/2 years, passing an end-of-step review after each 6-month period.

  • Perform work both indoors and outdoors under various weather conditions, including working on uneven surfaces and at heights using ladders, platforms, or scaffolding.

  • Work around high voltage equipment and machinery, following safety protocols to prevent hazards such as explosions, fires, and exposure to hazardous substances.


U.S. Department Of Energy rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

149th of 855 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

The Apprenticeship program is a formal training program consisting of 7 steps for Substation Operator (3 1/2 years). The apprentice must pass an end-of-step review following each 6-month step to remain in the program. Apprentices will be promoted to journeymen after successfully passing the final step review.Qualifications:Applicants must meet the requirements of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Job Qualification System for Trades and Labor Occupations (X-118C). Although a specific length of time and experience is not required for most trade and labor occupations, you must show through experience and training that you possess the quality level of knowledge and skill necessary to perform the duties of the position at the level for which you are applying. Qualification requirements emphasis is on the quality of experience, not necessarily the length of time.
Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the job elements and screen out listed below. Your resume should demonstrate that you possess these elements and screen out. Do not provide a separate narrative written statement. Rather, you must describe in your resume how your past work experience demonstrates that you possess the elements and screen out identified below. This job has a screen-out factor which will be used to determine minimum eligibility for this job. Applicants who do not receive a minimum of two points on this screen-out element(s) or who do not score at least half of the total points possible across all elements will be found ineligible.
The screen-out element for this position is: APTITUDE AND INTEREST TO LEARN TRADE THEORY. Failure to meet this Screen out Element will result in an ineligible rating.
In addition to meeting the minimum qualifications for this position, you must pass an online aptitude examination demonstrating your potential for learning and advancing in an Apprentice position. Failure to pass the examination will result in an ineligible rating.

Apprenticeship positions require that you sign a "Continuation of Service Agreement". If you voluntarily leave BPA/DOE, while completing or after completing the training program and / or prior to completing your service commitment you may be liable to BPA for the value of any service days not completed within 30 days of separation. The agreement will obligate you to remain with BPA for a period of one year upon completion of apprenticeship training.


WORKING CONDITIONS:

Working conditions for Substation Operator Apprentice are performed both indoors and outdoors under all prevailing weather conditions during the day or night. Work is also performed on uneven, outdoor surfaces, including steep inclines, on rocked or graveled surfaces and unimproved surfaces. Hazards include working around high voltage equipment and machinery with moving parts. The possibility of explosion or fire is ever-present. The Substation Operator Apprentice may work from ladders, platforms, scaffolding, or stairs. The work environment will occasionally include high noise levels and/or exposure to hazardous substances (such as acids, PCB's, pesticides, asbestos, mercury, solvents, etc.) that could, if precautions are not followed, pose a health risk. Proper respiratory and safety equipment shall be worn when hazardous substances are being handled. Emergencies, critical system conditions, or outage limitations may require that work be done at night and/or under time restraints. System priorities may require extended periods of overtime, including working weekends.

"Experience" refers to paid and unpaid experience. Examples of qualifying unpaid experience may include: volunteer work done through National Service programs (such as Peace Corps and AmeriCorps); as well as work for other community-based philanthropic and social organizations. Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills; and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
CTAP/ICTAP candidates: To be considered "well qualified" you must meet all of the requirements as described in this section.
You must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the closing date of this announcement.

Education:There are no specific education requirements or substitution of education for experience for this position.Employment Type: OTHER

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