Rural Electric, Inc. – Electrical Apprentice I Position
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Arizona / Rural Electric, Inc. – Electrical Apprentice I Position
Electrical Apprentice I – Mesa, AZ
Program Information
Rural Electric, Inc. offers an Electrical Apprentice I position designed as a structured entry point into the IECA four-year electrical apprenticeship program. This role is intended for individuals already working with Rural Electric who are ready to transition from general labor into a formal electrical trade pathway. Candidates must complete a minimum of four months as a laborer with Rural Electric before being considered for enrollment into the IECA Apprenticeship Program.
The apprenticeship combines on-the-job training at active industrial construction sites with classroom instruction across four progressive phases over four years. As apprentices advance, job responsibilities increase in technical complexity under the direct supervision of journeyman electricians and foremen.
Training Structure
Apprentices attend and successfully complete all required classroom instruction as part of the IECA Apprenticeship Program while continuing full-time field work. Training includes conduit installation, equipment installation, wire pulling and termination, electrical testing, blueprint reading, NEC code education, and safe operation of heavy equipment.
All electrical work involving MCCs, transformers, panelboards, PLCs, and live systems is performed under direct journeyman supervision. Apprentices are progressively trained in diagnostic methods using electronic test equipment and measuring tools.
Work Environment
Work is performed primarily in the field at company or client industrial job sites. Assignments may involve travel to local or remote locations, including overnight stays depending on project requirements. Job sites may include exposure to extreme temperatures, noise, and industrial environments. Evening, night, or weekend work may be required based on project schedules.
Key Responsibilities
Assist journeyman electricians with electrical installations, conduit bending, wire pulling, termination, and testing. Install wiring devices, boxes, manholes, support racks, and related electrical infrastructure. Learn to read blueprints and project plans to complete assigned tasks accurately. Operate equipment such as forklifts, scissor lifts, boom lifts, and other project-specific machinery after required training.
Apprentices are expected to maintain strong safety awareness, follow all safety protocols, and perform work in a safety-sensitive construction environment.
Program Requirements
- Minimum four months as a laborer with Rural Electric, Inc.
- At least one year of construction experience or equivalent
- High school diploma or GED
- Valid state driver’s license
- Ability to attend and complete a four-year apprenticeship program
- Strong attendance and commitment to both field work and classroom training
- Ability to work in industrial construction environments
Tools & Certifications
Apprentices are expected to supply basic construction and electrical tools, including measuring devices, hand tools, drills, wire strippers, and testing equipment. Required training includes OSHA 10, trench safety, fall protection, lockout/tagout, equipment operation, and site-specific safety certifications.
This role is designated as safety-sensitive and requires strict adherence to safety standards and substance-free work practices.
Apprenticeship Cost & Career Outlook
Rural Electric, Inc. – Electrical Apprentice I Position is a Registered Apprenticeship Program — meaning you can earn while you learn through paid on-the-job training in Electrician.
- Paid on-the-job training with step increases as you progress
- Classroom / technical instruction is part of the program structure
- Training costs are often low — but you may still pay for tools, books, or fees
- Credential earned at completion is recognized by employers in the industry
Registered apprenticeships are overseen by the U.S. Department of Labor or a State Apprenticeship Agency. Because these programs aren’t traditional colleges, College Scorecard tuition and earnings data usually doesn’t apply.
Step-by-Step Career Guides
The programs and apprenticeships listed on this page relate to hands-on skilled trades. Explore the guides below to learn about training paths, licensing, salaries, and what to expect in each career field.