Dates Released for 2026-2027 Apprenticeship Program Exams

DWR is now recruiting for the 2026-27 Apprenticeship Program.

Now in its 55^th year, the program has produced 709 graduates, approximately 85% of whom have remained with the department, including 10 Field Division Managers.

The exams and job vacancies are open from June 15 through July 13.

Applicants with a high school diploma, who are 18 years of age, and meet other qualifications on the exam announcement may apply for one or more exams. Visit the apprentice exam announcements page for exam links and information.

Apprenticeship exam and job openings include:

• Utility Craftsworker (three years) repairs, operates, modifies, replaces, inspects, and maintains major civil structures and related utility equipment
• Hydroelectric Plant (HEP) Electrician (four years) installs, repairs, and maintains wiring circuits for electrical equipment, motors, and control devices
• Hydroelectric Plant Mechanic (four years) repairs, disassembles, and assembles large and complex equipment, such as piping systems, pumps, turbines, motors, generators, compressors, and air conditioning systems.
• Hydroelectric Plant Operator (three years) operates and controls aqueduct facilities and hydroelectric generating and pumping plants

Applicants who pass the written exam with a final score of 70 percent or better are placed on the eligible list and can apply for the apprenticeship program's position openings. From June 15 to July 13, vacancies will be posted on the CalCareers website. Apprentice classes are hired together, once per year, in January.

Along with in-person class instruction, hands-on-learning, classroom study, home study, and supervised on-the-job training at a water conveyance facility, the apprenticeship program offers many benefits, including:

• Learning new skills
• Mentorship from experts
• College credits
• Building strong professional relationships

During the three to four-year-long programs, which are located at DWR facilities across California, apprentices assist journey-level workers in various trades.

Participants in the first two years of the program receive instruction and complete most tasks under supervision. In the final years of the program, apprentices perform more complex tasks which demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities required on the job. Participants are continuously evaluated and must pass a series of exams to progress through the program.

After completion, graduates will receive a full-time journey-level position with DWR in their learned trade. Graduates are certified through the Department of Industrial Relations and receive a Certificate of Completion.

Graduates of the apprenticeship program often describe it as life changing. HEP Supervisor Kevin Backes said, "DWR's apprenticeship program changed my and my family's life forever. The satisfaction I received from completing the apprenticeship 12 years ago, and the advantages that working for the Department has provided me with, have fueled my desire to spread the word about the apprenticeship's training and the opportunities it offers. As a Hydroelectric Plant Supervisor in the Southern Field Division, I now have the privilege to direct and guide those currently in the program."

For more information, please contact the Joint Apprenticeship Committee (JAC) Program Coordinator by calling 916.820.7726 or view the apprenticeship program webpage.