Electrician at San Diego Gas & Electric Company IBEW #465
at San Diego Gas & Electric Company IBEW #465 in San Diego, CA
About This Program
San Diego Gas and Electric Company, in partnership with IBEW Local 465, sponsors a registered union electrician apprenticeship program in San Diego, California. This JATC-affiliated program trains electricians specifically for work within a major investor-owned utility, combining the rigor of union training with the technical demands of large-scale electrical distribution and infrastructure. Apprentices are paid throughout the program.
The five-year, time-based program includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices develop expertise in electrical theory, utility systems, transformer operation, distribution networks, metering, safety regulations, and the National Electrical Code. Training is closely tied to the actual work performed at SDG&E, giving apprentices relevant, career-specific skills.
Graduates earn journeyman electrician status recognized within the union electrical and utility industry. A journeyman position at a major utility like San Diego Gas and Electric offers stable employment, competitive union wages, strong benefits, and a long-term career path in the energy sector.
Wage & Training
Journeyman Wage
$30
OJT Hours
8,000
RTI Hours
576
Duration
5 years
Wage data is the national median for this occupation (BLS, May 2023), not specific to this program.
Electrician Career Outlook
National Median
$29.61/hr
~$61,588.8/yr
Apprentice Start
$15/hr
Earn while you learn
Job Outlook
Electrician employment is projected to grow significantly, driven by construction activity, renewable energy expansion, and EV infrastructure buildout. The increasing electrification of buildings and transportation systems creates strong long-term demand. Licensed electricians with experience in solar, battery storage, or industrial controls are especially sought after.
What to Expect as an Electrician Apprentice
Duration
5 years of combined on-the-job training and classroom instruction
On-the-Job Training
~32 hours/week of hands-on work under journeyman supervision (8,000 total hours)
Classroom Instruction
576 hours of related technical instruction (~115 hours/year)
Paid Training
You earn a wage from day one, starting at a percentage of the journeyman rate and increasing as you progress
Time-based program: You'll progress through the program based on completing a set number of hours in both on-the-job training and classroom instruction.
This is a union-affiliated program. Union apprenticeships typically offer strong benefits packages, pension contributions, and structured career advancement through the local hall.
Trade School vs. Apprenticeship for Electrician
Apprenticeship
Trade School
Licensing in California
Electricians in California are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by California Department of Industrial Relations, Electrician Certification Unit.
View full Californialicensing requirements →Reviews
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