About the Program
Build the skills needed to construct, maintain, and upgrade utility substations; the critical facilities that keep the electrical grid operating. This apprenticeship combines hands-on field training with technical instruction in substation equipment, structural systems, electrical components, grounding, controls, and safe work practices.
Job Functions
A Substation Technician Apprentice performs skilled work in the construction, installation, maintenance, repair, and modernization of electrical utility substations. Under the supervision of qualified journey-level personnel, apprentices assist with the installation and maintenance of structural steel, bus systems, grounding systems, transformers, circuit breakers, switches, control equipment, conduit, cable, and other substation apparatus.
The work includes interpreting construction drawings and specifications; assembling and installing substation structures and equipment; installing grounding and bonding systems; performing mechanical and electrical connections; operating tools and equipment; and assisting with inspection, testing, troubleshooting, maintenance, and repair activities.
Apprentices work in energized and de-energized utility environments and are trained to perform their duties in accordance with applicable OSHA requirements, electrical safety practices, utility procedures, and industry standards.
Substation Technician Duties
- Install & maintain structural steel components and electrical bus systems
- Install electrical bonding and grounding equipment
- Operating tools and equipment including but not limited to hand tools and heavy equipment
- Read and interpret electrical drawings and diagrams
- Work on or near energized and de-energized conductors and electrical apparatus
How to Apply
Interviews are typically held every other month beginning in January. Only candidate’s with completed applications and successful aptitude test (within the last two years) on file will be scheduled. |
Application Requirements
- Class A CDL with no Restrictions.
- Completed Application
- Completed Aptitude Test within the last two (2) years.
- High School Diploma and Official Sealed Transcript.
Other Recommendations (not required)
Apprenticeship Includes
NW Line JATC is the only outside apprenticeship offering Substation Tech program in our service territory, giving you an expanded experience. Working on many types of substations in varying voltage classes on numerous different utility properties. Giving a broad scope of knowledge and skillset to the apprentice.
Apprentices start at 60% of the Journeyman Lineman Wage. Pay progresses in the following percentages with each step increase, respectively: 60%, 63%, 67%, 72%, 78%, 86%, 90%. Benefits shown are based upon 100% for the Journeyman rate.
| 1st | 2nd | 3rd | 4th | 5th | 6th | 7th | Journeyman | |
| 2026 | $42.45 | $44.57 | $47.40 | $50.94 | $55.19 | $60.85 | $63.68 | $70.75 |
| 2027 | $45.21 | $47.47 | $50.48 | $54.25 | $58.77 | $64.80 | $67.82 | $75.35 |
| 2028 | $48.15 | $50.26 | $53.77 | $57.78 | $62.60 | $69.02 | $72.23 | $80.25 |
| NEBF | NEAP | LINECO | HRA | TOTAL | |
| 2026 | 5.00% | 3.00% | $7.5/hr | $1.20 | 26.82 |
| 2027 | 5.00% | 3.00% | $7.5/hr | $1.20 | 26.82 |
| 2028 | 6.50% | 3.00% | $7.5/hr | $1.30 | 28.56 |
Apprenticeship Features
Payscale
Medical Insurance
As an employee in the electrical industry under the Four Local Agreement, you will receive insurance benefits for yourself and your dependent family, including health, dental and vision insurance. The insurance is provided 100% by the contractor and is not deducted from your paycheck. The health insurance plan provided allows you to see any doctor you wish, anywhere in the country.
Retirement Plans
In a time when most companies are cutting back on retirement benefits, the outside electrical industry offers two outstanding retirement benefits- National Electrical Annuity Plan (NEAP) and National Electrical Benefit Fund (NEBF). In addition, they also offer 100% employer paid Health Reimbursement Account (HRA), Long Term and Short-Term Disability.
College Credit
Because your apprenticeship is more than just on-the-job training, you are eligible to earn college credit issued by the American Council of Education (ACE) and/or through a Local Community College.
Veterans
Veterans may be eligible for educational benefits while working their way through the apprenticeship program. Once you have been indentured, our Certifying Official will work with you to get your benefit claim going.
Questions about using your GI Bill® benefits? Contact our Certifying Official at gi-bill@nwlinejatc.com for assistance with eligibility, benefit certification, and the enrollment process.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is there an application fee?
Yes, there is a $35.00 application fee.
What happens after I submit my completed application?
Upon completion of your application, you will be scheduled for aptitude testing (These are held on the 3rd Monday of each month at the JATC Admin office). All applicants must pass or having a passing score on file with the ETA in order to qualify for interview. Once you have completed testing, you will be scheduled for an interview. Interviews typically occur every other month through out the year. You will be scored based on a variety of factors during your interview. Your overall score will then determine where you fall on the rank list. If you are not indentured after two years on the list, your name will be removed.
Where are the classes held?
All RSI (Required Supplemental Instruction) will be earned and held at the NW Line JATC Headquarters in Battle Ground, Washington.
What is the difference between the Substation Certification and the Substation Technician Apprenticeship?
The Substation Certification is intended for current Journey Level workers wishing to add the additional certification to their skill set. The Substation Technician Apprenticeship is intended for entry level workers.
How often is the rank list updated?
The rank list is updated following each interview session.
What are the travel requirements?
During your apprenticeship, you will be required to work within the entire geographical jurisdiction of the program - spanning Oregon, Washington, Northern Idaho, and Northern California. These areas fall under the four NECA/IBEW Locals- Local 77, 125, 483, and 659.
How long am I on the rank list?
You will remain on the rank list for two years or until you are indentured into the program. After two years, you will need to re-apply.