What are the responsibilities and job description for the Electrical Trainee (Electrical Pre-Apprentice) position at City of Tacoma?
Position Description
Are you seeking a hands-on opportunity to launch a rewarding career in the electrical trades? Tacoma Power’s Electrical Pre-Apprenticeship program could be the perfect fit for you!
Tacoma Power is hiring Electrical Trainees (Classification: Electrical Pre-Apprentice) for the July 2026 to July 2027 program. As an Electrical Trainee, you will participate in an intensive, 12-month on-the-job training program. This initiative aims to broaden and diversify the pool of qualified candidates while equipping participants with the skills and knowledge needed to compete successfully for Tacoma Power’s Apprenticeship programs.
Our apprenticeships are craft-based, high-intensity programs combining classroom instruction with hands-on training. The Electrical Trainee Program is specifically designed to prepare participants for the demands of these rigorous programs. This paid 12-month training includes foundational learning in areas such as basic electricity, math, algebra, physical fitness, climbing, safety, and on-the-job experience with various electrical crews.
During the program, participants will gain experience and knowledge in areas such as:
- Classroom training on topics like basic electricity, math, algebra, and AC/DC theory.
- Safe, effective, and cooperative work practices in crew environments.
- Techniques for safely climbing ladders, towers, and poles, and working effectively at heights.
- Best practices for working in enclosed spaces.
- Knowledge of electrical utility equipment and services.
- Proper use and maintenance of electrical tools and equipment.
- Safety principles applied to daily work tasks.
- Assisting journey-level employees in crew environments.
- Developing physical strength, stamina, and techniques for strenuous tasks, with access to an onsite fitness center for physical ability test preparation.
- Rules and procedures for obtaining and maintaining a Washington State Class A commercial driver’s license and working safely around large vehicles and equipment.
Important Note: If you meet the minimum qualifications for the Electrical Apprenticeship program, we encourage you to apply directly to those opportunities, as this role is designed for individuals preparing to enter that next step. Overqualification for the Pre-Apprenticeship may include:
- Completion of a lineman school program, or apprenticeship
- 6 Months apprenticeship experience in another setting.
Qualifications
- Graduation from high school or equivalent.
- Must be 18 years old by the time of hire (July 13, 2026)
- Valid Washington State driver’s license within 90 days of appointment with maintenance thereafter.
- Must obtain Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) within 90 days of appointment with maintenance thereafter. Tacoma Power will assist with obtaining this credential.
- Position requires heavy lifting, climbing and working from heights, climbing stairs, fast reflexes, good eyesight, bending, stretching and standing.
- Work includes both indoor and outdoor environments and is subject to adverse weather conditions. Employees may be exposed to high voltage wires, heights, hazardous materials, gases, and noise from equipment.
- Knowledge of mathematics at the algebra level.
Knowledge & Skills
An employee in this class must demonstrate ongoing progress in developing the following competencies while participating in the Pre-Apprentice training program.
Physical:
Participate in daily physical activities required of the assigned position.
Learning:
On a daily basis come to work prepared and ready to learn given assignments. Complete training assignments on time, safely, and accurately.
Motivation:
Demonstrate the desire to learn and work in the trade. Perform all assignments with a high degree of enthusiasm and encourage peers to perform at their highest level.
Adaptability:
Report to work on time and prepared. Work during day and night and in various weather conditions.
Technical:
Properly and safely operate assigned tools and equipment based upon the methods taught and demonstrated in class and in the field.
Communication:
Read and interpret study material, applicable codes, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures as they apply to field of trade. Write in clear and legible handwriting.
Professionalism:
Conduct all work and study assignments in a professional and timely manner. Learn and maintain professional skills of the trade that apply to all aspects of field of trade through continued learning, training, and work assignments.
Public Relations:
Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with co-workers, supervisors and the general public.
Selection Process & Supplemental Information
Examination Process
These positions are highly sought after and competitive, highlighting the rigorous training and rewarding career opportunities they offer. As such, the selection process is thorough and includes multiple stages and assessmentsspanning 6 months. The timeline may vary due to factors such as applicant volume, and or other unforeseen circumstances:
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January/February - Application Review:
- Applications are screened to ensure minimum qualifications are met.
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February/March - Math Assessment:
- Selected applicants will be invited to complete a math assessment and participate in an in-person informational session
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April - Panel Interview and Practical Assessments:
- Five-Person Panel Interview to evaluate qualifications, skills, and overall fit for the role.
- Multi-Station Practical and Physical Assessments to test ability to follow instructions, safety awareness, mechanical aptitude, and other key skills and measure readiness for the physical demands of the position.
- April/May - Notification: Candidates are notified of their status approximately three weeks after completing the interview process.
- May/June - Conditional Offer Letter & Pre-Employment Physical: Upon receiving a conditional offer letter, candidates will complete a final pre-employment physical and drug screening.
- July - Program Launch
To apply, submit your application and materials (Resume AND Cover Letter) online through the City of Tacoma's website. All materials must be submitted by the closing date and time indicated in this job announcement. Do not respond with "see resume" in lieu of answering the supplemental questions. Individuals must meet all minimum qualifications to be eligible for hire.
Appointment is subject to passing a background check and will include a pre-employment medical examination and drug screen. Candidates must be able to pass background screening for applicable security access and maintain security clearance. This position is covered by a Labor Agreement between the City of Tacoma and IBEW Local 483.
City of Tacoma Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
At the City of Tacoma, we're on a mission to make our workforce as diverse and inclusive as the community we serve. We're committed to eliminating racial and other disparities, and we actively seek out candidates from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. Join our team at the City of Tacoma and help us build a more vibrant, inclusive, and equitable community for all.
Tacoma Power
Tacoma Power is an almost 100% hydroelectric, municipally-owned public power utility, located in Tacoma. We serve approximately 170,000 customers as one of the three operating divisions of Tacoma Public Utilities, alongside Tacoma Water and Tacoma Rail. As one of the most livable, walkable cities in the country, you'll find that Tacoma is a great fit for all interests with places to bike, run, hike, and explore, the perks of a big city, and the charm of a small town.
Communication from the City of Tacoma:
We primarily communicate via email during the application process. Emails from cityoftacoma.org and/or governmentjobs.com must be placed on your safe domain list to ensure that you receive notifications in a timely manner. As a precaution, you may also want to check your junk email folders.
In order for your application materials to be considered, all information must be submitted by the closing date and time listed on this job announcement.
For assistance with the NEOGOV application process, questions regarding this job announcement, or if you are experiencing complications while applying, please contact the Human Resources office at (253) 591.5400 by 4:00 pm of the closing date of the job announcement. This will allow us to assist you before the job announcement closes.
Salary : $33