High Voltage Electrical Apprentice I (Lineman & Electrician)

About the role

The Bonneville Power Administration is seeking motivated individuals to join its High Voltage Electrical Apprentice I program, covering both Lineman and Electrician tracks. Apprentices will receive on‑the‑job training under the direct supervision of experienced Journeymen while working on substation equipment and high‑voltage transmission lines across the Pacific Northwest.

Key responsibilities

• Assist in the installation, adjustment, maintenance, and repair of electrical equipment in substations.
• Support the erection and removal of high‑voltage transmission line structures on wood poles and steel towers up to 500 kV AC and 1 000 kV DC.
• Perform routine inspections, modifications, troubleshooting, and repairs on electrical, hydraulic, mechanical, pneumatic, and electronic systems.
• Travel to various work sites (approximately 25‑50% of the time) and comply with safety and emergency call‑out procedures.

Required profile

• U.S. citizenship and ability to pass a pre‑employment medical exam.
• Residence within one hour (90 minutes for Grand Coulee) of the assigned duty station.
• Willingness to register for Selective Service (males) and participate in e‑Verify.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a First Aid and CPR card.

Required skills

• Electrical installation and maintenance.
• High‑voltage transmission line construction.
• Electrical troubleshooting.
• Hydraulic, mechanical, pneumatic, and electronic equipment servicing.

What we offer

• Paid travel and per‑diem expenses for training.
• Tuition, books, and related materials covered by BPA.
• Structured apprenticeship program with mandatory online and classroom instruction.
• Potential relocation to a duty station during the final 12 months of the program.