Apprentice Wire Electrician

The City of Tacoma is creating a new civil service list for Apprentice Wire Electrician.  Apprentice Wire Electricians perform apprentice-level work assisting journey-level Wire Electricians in the construction, maintenance and repair of electrical substations and underground electrical systems. Apprentices will be formally enrolled in the City of Tacoma's Wire Electrician Apprenticeship program. This apprenticeship program is recognized by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, requiring a minimum of three and one-half years to complete.

Continued enrollment and employment is subject to attending off-hour training without compensation and maintaining the progress standards set by the Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee. This position requires lifting, pulling, pushing, kneeling, squatting, climbing, working from heights, climbing stairs and ladders and working in confined spaces. Employees in this position are exposed to electrical hazards.

Graduation from high school or equivalent

AND

Valid Drivers license

AND

Completion of high school-level algebra and knowledge of basic electricity (knowledge covering Ohms Law, AC/DC theory and series/parallel circuits)  

AND

6 months of experience in the electrical or construction trades OR completion of a formalized vocational training program in a related field.  

Work experience includes the use of basic tools (hammer, wrench, various equipment). Individuals may have experience in construction trades (Examples: plumbing, iron work, carpentry, etc.)

LICENSES, CERTIFICATES AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS

* Valid WA State Driver's License at time of appointment with maintenance thereafter

* Obtain a valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL) permit within 6 months of hire date

* Obtain a valid Washington Commercial Driver's License (Class

A) by completion of probationary period with maintenance thereafter

* Traffic Control Flagging required prior to completion of the probationary period with maintenance thereafter

* First Aid Card with CPR certification required prior to completion of the probationary period with maintenance thereafter

* Forklift training and certificates will be required prior to completion of the probationary period with maintenance thereafter

* Obtain Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) clearance prior to completion of probation and maintenance thereafter

This recruitment is being managed by Elise Drennen if you would like to be notified of similar opportunities or stay connected with things going on at Tacoma Public Utilities and the City of Tacoma, connect with me on Linked In!  

Apply

Reference checks will be conducted on final candidates. The online application system requires you to enter a substantial amount of information. Be prepared to spend an hour or more entering the required information. 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. Interested individuals should apply online.

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 assessments spanning across up to 6 months. The timeline may vary due to factors such as budget considerations, applicant volume, or other unforeseen circumstances.

Applications will be accepted until Friday, January 16, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. pacific time.

Applicants who are eligible for veterans scoring criteria (Veterans Preference) must attach a copy of their DD-214 member copy 4, (proof of military discharge form) at time of application, to be eligible for review for Veteran's Preference points.

Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications will be invited to take the in-person written examination scheduled for February 3rd, 2026. There will be no alternative test dates. Please be sure to add HR email to your contacts/safe list to avoid missing the test invitation. As a precaution, you may also want to check your junk e-mail folders to ensure you receive communication.

Applicants must pass the written examination in order to be placed on the eligible list for further hiring consideration.

Estimated Timeline:

* January/February - Job Posting & Application Screening:

* Applications are screened to ensure minimum qualifications are met.

* February 3, 2026 - Basic Electricity & Math Exam in person in Tacoma, WA.

* March - Application Review:

* Applications will be reviewed by Tacoma Power to determine which candidates are moving on to the next step in the process.

* April
-Physical Ability testing (Line & Wire only), Panel Interview and Practical Assessments:

* Select candidates will be invited to participate in this step of the process.

* Physical Ability Testing for Line & Wire Craft only.

* Four-Person Panel Interview to evaluate qualifications, skills, and overall fit for the role.

* Hands on Multi-Station Practical and Physical Assessment to test…