Limited Energy Apprenticeship Program
Portland Metro Area
The Area I Limited Energy apprenticeship program provides students the experience and training necessary to earn the status of limited energy technician. It is a combination of classroom instruction at Clackamas Community College in Wilsonville, OR and work experience with approved employers.
There are two types of limited energy licenses: Class A and Class B. Both types of licenses allow technicians to install communications systems and specialized control systems. Class A technicians can also install protective signaling systems.
We offer pathways to both licenses through the Limited Energy apprenticeship program.
Class A Program
- 3 years
- 6000 on-the-job hours
- 432 classroom hours
Class B Program
- 2 years
- 4000 on-the-job hours
- 288 classroom hours
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can I earn?
Apprentices begin at half of the average salary of journey workers and receive pay increases as they progress through the program. Entry-level apprentices earn $19.45 – $21.65 per hour to start and generally receive their first raise after 3 months. Licensed limited energy technicians earn on average $38 – $45 per hour—that’s about $79,000 – $94,000 per year.
How do I receive my on-the-job training?
Apprentices work under the direct supervision of licensed limited energy technicians. After you are registered as an apprentice, you will work for an employer who is approved by the limited energy committee to be a training agent through the Bureau of Labor & Industries. Training agents have promised to provide on-the-job training and supervision according to approved industry standards.
Where are employers located?
Training agents have offices located in Multnomah, Yamhill, Washington, Clackamas, Wasco, Tillamook, Columbia, Clatsop, and Hood River counties in Oregon and Clark county in Washington. However, you may be required to travel all over Oregon and to other states.
What working conditions can I expect?
Limited energy technicians perform work both indoors and outdoors in a variety of weather conditions. This work involves standing, bending, reaching, and lifting in confined spaces and at heights ranging up to 160+ feet.
How do I receive my classroom instruction?
Classroom instruction – or related training – is conducted at Clackamas Community College in Wilsonville, OR. Classes are one evening per week from 6pm to 10pm in the fall, winter, and spring. You will start school once you are registered in the program as an apprentice.
- Our affiliation with Clackamas Community College allows apprentices to receive college credits towards an associate degree and potentially qualify for financial aid.
- Online Schooling: Available on a special basis.
What costs can I expect?
Related training tuition and books combined cost average between $2000 – $2500 per year. This cost is the responsibility of the apprentice, although some employers do assist with expenses. Scholarships and financial aid
opportunities are provided through Clackamas Community College and the apprenticeship program.
Difference between a Class A and Class B License?
Obtaining a Class A license expands the scope of work that a limited energy technician can do. Both Class A and Class B limited energy technicians can legally work on communications systems and specialized control systems under 100 volts, but Class A technicians can also work on protective signaling/life safety systems. See the Information Packet for a more detailed explanation of the difference between these licenses.
I am a veteran. Is the application process different for me?
You will still need to complete the application process. However, if you are a veteran and have been honorably discharged within the last 24 months or are in the reserves with a DD214, you may qualify for an application submission exception during closed application periods. This program also qualifies for education benefits. Please contact the apprenticeship staff for more information.
I am already working for a registered training agent. Can I bypass this process?
All individuals interested in joining the apprenticeship program must complete the application process regardless of their current employment status.
I am currently registered in a different apprenticeship program. Can I transfer my credit to this program?
Apprentices can only transfer between apprenticeship programs for the same license. Employment with a training agent registered with this program should be obtained prior to transferring programs. All previous experience (in and out of the apprenticeship program) will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. All transferring apprentices must be in good standing in their current program, provide documentation proving program minimum requirements, and provide documented OJT and related training experience.
Apply Now
Please see the information packet explaining the Limited Energy Apprenticeship program and processes. To complete the online Limited Energy Apprenticeship Application, you must be able to upload all required documentation.
If you have any questions, please contact Kristan at kristan@iecoregon.org.
Qualifying for the apprenticeship program is not a guarantee of employment or registration as an apprentice. Applicants must be at least 17 years of age to apply and at least 18 years of age to begin working as an apprentice.
How to Apply
NOTE: Qualifying for this apprenticeship program is not a guarantee of employment as an apprentice.
Step 1: Gather the Required Documentation
1. Diploma or GED: Proof of a high school diploma, GED, or Associate Degree or higher.
2. REQUIRED – NCRC – WorkKeys Assessment Scores: Applied Math Workplace Documents Graphic Literacy
3. Algebra requirement: **WAIVED IF A SCORE OF 5 OR HIGHER IS RECEIVED ON WORKKEYS MATH ASSESMENT**
Proof of a C or better in Algebra OR College Math Placement test (Must test into Math 65/70)4. Additional Documentation: Veterans – DD214
5. Optional documentation for additional points: Driver’s license, current CPR certification, or registered pre-apprenticeship completion certificate.
Step 2: Complete Application, Upload Documentation and Submit
Applications must be completed and submitted during published application openings. The required documentation must be uploaded to your application prior to submission.
Step 3: Complete an Online Recorded Interview
An interview link will be emailed to applicants upon verification of Steps 1 and 2 by apprenticeship staff.
Step 4: Attend a Mandatory Orientation Meeting
There will be a monthly mandatory orientation via Zoom. Applicants who have completed Steps 1 – 3 will be emailed a zoom link on the Friday prior to the meeting.
Step 5: Scoring and Placement
Applications will be scored after Steps 1-4 are completed. Scores are based on submitted documentation, WorkKeys assessment scores, and interview scores.
Applicants are placed into hiring groups depending on their score. Opportunities will be provided to increase application scores if needed for better placement. Placement notification will be sent via email.
Step 6: Program Registration
Applicants will become registered apprentices after obtaining an employment offer from a registered training company and completing the registration paperwork. IEC Oregon staff are unable to estimate or guarantee program registration.