Apprenticeship Programs

Apprenticeship provides an opportunity for people to get experience and instruction gaining the practical skills and knowledge to become a competent craftsworker.

Apprenticeship positions

  • Lineman Apprentices
  • Meterman Apprentices
  • Substation Electricians In Training

Individuals hired into a Benton PUD apprenticeship position that have no prior experience in a utility related position often have, depending on their position of interest, past commercial electrical experience or have attended a "line or climbing school" such as those shown at the bottom of this page.

Lineman Apprentices are usually hired as a Pre-Apprentice and may work in that capacity for up to one year. This time allows an individual to work with a crew in the field everyday to help determine if they will be a successful Apprenticeship candidate. This year does not count toward their necessary hours to complete the Apprenticeship program and, once a full year is completed, a Pre-Apprentice must be prepared to accept a Lineman Apprentice position or separate employment from the District. The Lineman Apprentice program is typically 3 years long (6000 hours) of on-the-job and supplemental training. Lineman Apprentices attend Saturday School at Columbia Basin College from October through January and spend 10 days at Camp Rilea in Warrenton, Oregon (5 days during their third year)

Meterman Apprentices are typically hired from within but that is not a requirement. Potential candidates will have to pass a pre-qualifying test on electrical theory and math. The Meterman Apprenticeship is 3 years long (6000 hours) of on-the-job and supplemental training. Meterman Apprentices attend classes on Wednesday evenings from September through April which are usually held alternately between Pasco and East Wenatchee. They also attend a week long Meter School held in Seattle annually.

Substation Electricians in Training complete a one year in-house on-the-job training as well as additional outside trainings as necessary. Candidates for this position must have successfully completed an inside electrician apprenticeship.

Those who complete any of these three programs then must pass the Journeyman test administrated by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Union (IBEW) Local 77 proving their qualifications as highly skilled journey-level workers in their trade. All our apprentices are required to join the IBEW Local 77 and maintain that membership during their career at Benton PUD.

How to apply

Benton PUD will post opportunities for an apprenticeship position on this website under Current Openings.

If you are at least 18 years old, a high school graduate or certified equivalent, looking for a challenge and have the right set of skills and abilities, you could be eligible to apply for one of our apprenticeship programs.

We are dedicated to increasing the number of women and minorities in our apprenticeships and providing equal opportunity for all qualified applicants.

Additional information on Education and Apprenticeship Programs

Careers in Public Power - American Public Power Association

Joint Apprenticeship Trade Commission

Washington State Apprenticeship Information

IBEW Local 77

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