PGE’s Journey-Level Lineworker Apprenticeship Program

You’ll need to prepare the following documentation to attach to your application. Please ensure you have the required documentation ready to go before you apply. If all necessary documents are not attached, your application is considered incomplete and you will not move forward.

• Resume/CV: First, you’ll need to have a resume. If you do not have a resume or are a little nervous about creating one, you are not alone! We recommend searching online for “pre-apprentice lineworker resume” to see examples or templates.

• High school diploma or GED: Obtain an electronic copy or photo of your high school diploma or GED. You can also scan a transcript with your date of graduation.

• Proof of passing Math 60:You’ll also need proof of passing Math 60 (intermediate algebra) or have results from a placement test that qualifies you for Math 65 or higher. The passing grade or placement score must be dated within the last 36 months (3 years) of your application. Free placement tests are available at many community colleges.

We’re here to help. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to email us at talentaquisition@pgn.com.

While you are preparing to apply:

• Look into the requirements for obtaining a CDL (commercial driver’s license) permit. A CDL is required at the time of an apprenticeship offer, so being aware of those requirements in advance is helpful.

• Do some research on the IBEW NJATC Aptitude test, which tests your algebra and reading comprehension skills.

• Get in good physical shape. You’ll need to be able to pass the pole yard assessment and that requires strength and stamina in climbing and digging.

Journey-level lineworkers start off as pre-apprentices and spend 1.5 to 3 years in that role. At the 3-, 6- and 12-month marks, pre-apprentices demonstrate the necessary competency for a variety of tasks like groundwork, safety standards, pole climbing and truck driving. They also learn about their union agreement, PGE policies and procedure,s as well as other administrative responsibilities. This pre-apprenticeship is a steppingstone to apprenticeship.

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PGE’s apprenticeship program lasts 3.5 years, totaling 7,000 hours of paid on-the-job training, and about 500 hours of paid classroom training. This includes academic reading, computer work and hands-on demonstrations.

To progress from one step to the next, apprentices must complete the necessary hours and receive an acceptable performance rating. At the completion of their apprenticeship, apprentices receive their trade certification and are officially recognized as journeymen within their respective disciplines.

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Apply

Submit your resume, cover letter, proof of high school graduation or GED, and documentation of passing Math 60 (algebra) within the last 36 months.

Application review

If all required documents are included, the Pre-Apprentice Committee will review your application. If selected, you’ll proceed to the next phase.

Yard assessment

A 69-question aptitude test (33 Algebra, 36 Reading Comprehension) requiring a score of 4 or higher to advance. If you passed the test within the last 24 months, you’ll move directly to the yard assessment. If not, or if a retake is needed, the test will be scheduled at our Sherwood Training Center.

Sit-down interview

Conducted over two days. Successful candidates from Day 1 advance to Day 2. The assessment includes four stations testing climbing, digging, strength and tool use, completed over a 4-hour period. Wear long pants, boots, gloves and long-sleeved shirts. Breaks and water are provided.

Decision and offer

A pre-determined set of behavioral interview questions to assess your responses to various scenarios.

Pre-employment checks

Decisions are made on the Friday of the last week of sit-down interviews. Your recruiter will inform you of the results. If offered and accepted, the start date is typically 1.5 to 2 months later.