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Union Apprentice Jobs in Modesto, CA (NOW HIRING)

Union Apprentice information

See Modesto, CA salary details

$12

$23

$39

How much do union apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for union apprentice in Modesto, CA is $23.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $25.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How can I get a union apprenticeship?

To get a union apprenticeship as a Union Apprentice, you typically need to meet age and education requirements, complete an application, and pass an entrance exam or interview. Applicants often must be physically capable of performing the work and may need to provide references or proof of basic skills. Once accepted, apprentices usually undergo paid on-the-job training combined with classroom instruction over several years.

What does a union apprentice do?

As a union apprentice, your daily responsibilities will often include assisting experienced journeymen with hands-on tasks, preparing job sites, operating tools and machinery under supervision, and learning essential trade skills through practical experience. You will also attend scheduled classroom training sessions where you'll study safety protocols, trade theory, and industry best practices. Collaboration is important, as you'll work closely with other apprentices and seasoned professionals, receiving feedback and gradually taking on more complex assignments as your skills develop. This structure ensures you gain a comprehensive understanding of the trade while building strong working relationships within your union team.

What is the difference between Union Apprentice vs Electrician?

AspectUnion ApprenticeElectrician
CredentialsApprenticeship program, on-the-job training, and classroom instructionJourneyman or master electrician license, certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, industrial settings, regulated union environmentsConstruction, maintenance, industrial facilities, residential projects
Employer & Industry UsageUnion-based construction companies, electrical contractorsElectrical contractors, industrial firms, maintenance companies

Union Apprentices are in training programs that combine classroom learning with on-the-job experience, often working under supervision. Electricians are fully qualified professionals with licensing and certifications, capable of working independently. While apprentices are in the process of becoming electricians, both roles are integral to electrical work in various industries.

What is a union apprentice?

A union apprentice is an individual who is learning a skilled trade through a structured program managed by a labor union. Apprenticeships combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction and allow apprentices to earn while they learn. Union apprenticeships are typically sponsored by joint labor-management committees and are designed to develop the skills needed for a specific trade, such as electrician, plumber, or carpenter. Upon completion, apprentices usually become journeymen and can work independently in their trade.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a union apprentice?

To thrive as a Union Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of trade skills, a high school diploma or GED, and often must meet specific union entry requirements. Familiarity with hand and power tools, safety protocols, and sometimes OSHA certification are commonly required. Strong work ethic, eagerness to learn, teamwork, and good communication skills help apprentices excel in demanding environments. These attributes are vital for ensuring safety, skill development, and effective collaboration on job sites.
What are the most commonly searched types of Union jobs in Modesto, CA? The most popular types of Union jobs in Modesto, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Union Apprentice jobs in Modesto, CA? For Union Apprentice jobs in Modesto, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Union Apprentice jobs in Modesto, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Union Apprentice jobs in Modesto, CA are:
What cities near Modesto, CA are hiring for Union Apprentice jobs? Cities near Modesto, CA with the most Union Apprentice job openings:
Infographic showing various Union Apprentice job openings in Modesto, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,325 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

$80K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Garney Construction rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

GARNEY

A Certified Payroll Specialist position is available at Garney. The Certified Payroll Specialist serves as a key member of the payroll compliance team, ensuring accurate and compliant administration of certified payroll programs for public and private projects subject to prevailing wage requirements. This position is responsible for interpreting labor compliance regulations, conducting audits, preparing and reviewing certified payroll reports, and addressing complex compliance matters on projects requiring advanced knowledge of prevailing wage laws, labor classifications, fringe benefits, apprenticeship requirements, and union agreements. The Specialist partners with internal and external stakeholders to mitigate risk, maintain regulatory compliance matters, resolves payroll discrepancies and support the successful execution of company projects while providing guidance and support to Certified Payroll Coordinators.

WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING
  • Prepare, review, and submit certified payroll reports in accordance with federal, state, local, and contractual requirements.
  • Validate labor classifications, wage determinations, fringe benefit calculations, and apprenticeship requirements.
  • Ensure payroll reporting accuracy and compliance across assigned projects.
  • Interpret labor compliance regulations, prevailing wage requirements, and contract specifications.
  • Investigate and resolve payroll and compliance discrepancies.
  • Analyze complex payroll records and supporting documentation.
  • Conduct compliance audits of payroll records and subcontractor reporting.
  • Identify compliance risks and recommend corrective actions.
  • Support regulatory reviews and agency inquiries.
  • Manage a portfolio of certified payroll and compliance projects.
  • Partner with project teams to ensure timely submission of required information.
  • Identify opportunities to improve reporting accuracy and efficiency.
  • Assist with development of compliance procedures and best practices.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
  • Advanced knowledge of certified payroll administration, prevailing wage regulations, labor classifications, and fringe benefit requirements. 
  • Strong analytical and critical-thinking skills with the ability to evaluate complex payroll and compliance issues.
  • Ability to interpret labor compliance regulations, contract requirements, and wage determinations.
  • Excellent attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
  • Strong time-management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects, reporting requirements, and compliance deadlines simultaneously.
  • Ability to investigate, analyze, and resolve payroll compliance discrepancies.
  • Effective communication skills with the ability to explain complex compliance concepts to various audiences.
  • Strong auditing and problem-solving skills.
  • Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and payroll reporting systems.
  • Ability to work independently and make sound compliance-related decisions within established guidelines.
  • Maintains strict confidentiality of sensitive payroll, compensation, compliance, audit, and employee information.
  • Continuous improvement mindset with a focus on increasing efficiency and reporting accuracy.
LET'S TALK THE PERKS!
  • Salary Range: $80,000 - $85,000 / Yr
  • Free medical, prescription, dental, and vision plans ($0 premiums)
  • Virtual doctor visits with no co-pay
  • Shares of company stock at no cost starting your first day
  • 401(k) plan with a 3.5% match
  • Student loan resources
  • Weekly paychecks
  • Paid time off
  • 8 paid holidays
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) with a lump sum and matching contributions
  • Free life insurance and disability policy
  • Free access to healthcare coordinators
  • Counseling sessions with mental health professionals at no cost
  • Access to consultations with legal and financial professionals at no cost
  • Free programs assisting with weight loss, maternity health, prescriptions for chronic conditions, and more
  • 50% employee discount in the Garney apparel store
CONTACT US

If you are interested in the Certified Payroll Specialist position, please click APPLY NOW to submit your application. To view additional opportunities with Garney, visit careers.garney.com

If you have questions or would like more information, please email recruiter@garney.com and include the job location and requisition ID (listed below the job title at the top of the page) to ensure a prompt response. Please note that email inquiries are not a substitute for submitting an application. All openings listed are currently accepting candidates. 

Garney and its subsidiaries are committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and it is our policy to provide equal opportunity to all people without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, age, disability, pregnancy, genetic information, citizenship status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other legally protected category. Garney is a background screening, drug-free workplace.

Agency Disclaimer:  All vendors must have a signed Garney Agreement, authorized by the Executive Team, to receive payment for any placement. Verbal or written commitments made by anyone other than a member of the Executive Team will not be considered binding.  Any unsolicited resumes sent to Garney or submitted to employees outside of the Recruiting Team will be deemed the property of Garney. In such cases, Garney will not be obligated to pay any placement fees.


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