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Trades Apprentice Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

Electrical Apprentice

Cedar Falls, IA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

We are currently hiring for Electrical Apprentices at our Cedar Falls location. We are looking for ... other trades. Candidates must work closely with field supervisors, adapt to changing work ...

Electrical Apprentice

Cedar Falls, IA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

We are currently hiring for Electrical Apprentices at our Cedar Falls location. We are looking for ... other trades. Candidates must work closely with field supervisors, adapt to changing work ...

Electrical Apprentice

Cedar Falls, IA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

We are currently hiring for Electrical Apprentices at our Cedar Falls location. We are looking for ... other trades. Candidates must work closely with field supervisors, adapt to changing work ...

We are currently hiring for Electrical Apprentices at our Cedar Falls location. We are looking for ... other trades. Candidates must work closely with field supervisors, adapt to changing work ...

... trades. Candidates must work closely with project contractors and project managers, also be able to supervise and train apprentice/electrician helpers. Candidates must be able to adapt to changing ...

... trades. Candidates must work closely with project contractors and project managers, also be able to supervise and train apprentice/electrician helpers. Candidates must be able to adapt to changing ...

... trades. Candidates must work closely with project contractors and project managers, also be able to supervise and train apprentice/electrician helpers. Candidates must be able to adapt to changing ...

... trades. Candidates must work closely with project contractors and project managers, also be able to supervise and train apprentice/electrician helpers. Candidates must be able to adapt to changing ...

Trades Apprentice information

See Waterloo, IA salary details

$12

$21

$36

How much do trades apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for trades apprentice in Waterloo, IA is $21.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $23.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a trades apprentice?

Trades apprentices are individuals who are learning a skilled trade through a combination of on-the-job training and classroom instruction. As apprentices, they work under the supervision of experienced tradespeople to develop practical skills in fields such as plumbing, electrical work, carpentry, or welding. Apprenticeship programs typically last between two to five years and lead to certification or licensure in the chosen trade. These programs are a great way to earn while you learn, providing both hands-on experience and technical knowledge.

What types of tasks and responsibilities can a trades apprentice expect during a typical week?

As a Trades Apprentice, you can expect to assist skilled tradespeople with a variety of hands-on tasks such as measuring materials, preparing tools, and performing basic repairs or installations. Your responsibilities will often include maintaining a clean and organized work area, following safety protocols, and learning to use specialized equipment under supervision. Apprentices also participate in on-the-job training and sometimes classroom instruction to build technical knowledge. Collaboration is key, as you'll regularly work alongside experienced mentors and other apprentices to complete projects efficiently.

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

To thrive as a Trades Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of safety procedures, manual dexterity, and a willingness to learn, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand and power tools, as well as compliance with OSHA safety standards or other relevant certifications, is typically required. Strong work ethic, reliability, and good communication skills make someone stand out in this position. These skills and qualities are important to ensure quality workmanship, maintain safety on the job site, and facilitate learning and progression to journeyman status.

What is the difference between Trades Apprentice vs Journeyman?

AspectTrades ApprenticeJourneyman
CredentialsApprenticeship program, often includes classroom and on-the-job trainingCompleted apprenticeship, often requires passing a certification exam
Work EnvironmentLearning phase, supervised work, gaining skillsSkilled worker, independent, responsible for tasks
Industry UsageEntry-level to mid-level training role in tradesLicensed or certified skilled worker in the trade

Trades Apprentices are in training, gaining skills through structured programs, while Journeymen are fully qualified workers with proven skills. Apprenticeship is a stepping stone to becoming a Journeyman, who can work independently and take on more complex tasks.

How to be a trades apprentice for a trade?

To become a trades apprentice, you typically need to apply through a local apprenticeship program or union, meet minimum age and educational requirements, and often complete a skills assessment or interview. Once accepted, you will work under the supervision of a licensed tradesperson while completing on-the-job training and classroom instruction, which may lead to certification or journeyman status.

What is the best trade to apprentice in?

Trades apprenticeships in fields such as electrical, plumbing, HVAC, carpentry, and welding are highly valued and offer strong job prospects. The best trade depends on personal interest, local demand, and the availability of certification programs, with many trades requiring technical skills and safety training.

What are the most commonly searched types of Trades jobs in Waterloo, IA?

The most popular types of Trades jobs in Waterloo, IA are:

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Trades Apprentice job openings in Waterloo, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $45,167 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Apprentice Electrician - Manchester, IA

Waterloo, IA

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

JOB SUMMARY:

Under supervision of an electrician, the apprentice electrician performs electrical work involved in construction, maintenance, and/or repair of commercial, industrial, or residential electrical construction projects. In addition to assigned tasks, the apprentice participates in the Electrical Apprenticeship Program (including classroom training), and demonstrates continuous progress toward fulfilling all Shaw Electric, Inc., and the Department of Labor Apprenticeship Program requirements.

All apprentices must demonstrate the following critical components:

  • Punctuality be on time, all the time, at the designated work site.
  • Team work and a positive attitude
  • An understanding that an apprentice's job is to help the journeyman electrician work faster
  • A willingness to follow Instructions, learn, and do the job right the first time
  • The ability to plan ahead - prepare tools/materials for the journeyman ahead of time; this improves job efficiency and makes a great impression.

*ESSENTIAL DUTIES, RESPONSIBILITIES, TRAINING, KNOWLEDGE, AND SKILL DEVELOPMENT:

  • Completes of 10-hour OSHA Safety Course, CPR & First Aid Training.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of Company Safety Practices, Handbook, and Procedures.
  • Performs all work in a safe manner, follows all safety procedures, attends safety meetings and encourages others to work safely. Attends required safety training
  • Completes continuing education toward license/certification in electrical trade
  • Completes hand trenching and excavation for running underground electrical conduit
  • Learns to bend conduit up to 1" conduit with hand bender with 90 degree, offsets, kicks and saddles
  • Able to install conduit and pull wire on a daily basis in accordance with minimum NEC recognized standards and within production rate of assigned projects.
  • Able to properly cut, thread, and assemble IMC, rigid, & PVC coated conduit
  • Able to read voltage tester (wigge)
  • Demonstrates basic knowledge of electrical theory
  • Demonstrates basic knowledge and understanding of electrical fasteners, anchors, raceways, boxes and fittings.
  • Demonstrates basic knowledge of blue print reading, spec books, and shop drawings.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of basic industry wire color codes.
  • Able to pull wire on a daily basis that meets minimum industry standards recognized by NEC code, at the required production rate.