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Application FAQ

How can I apply?

We accept applications online during our scheduled application period in November each year. Application dates are normally announced on the website in the fall. There is a $50, non-refundable application fee for each program.

What is the starting pay rate?

Electrical Apprentices are currently starting at $23.31 per hour. Telecomm Apprentices are currently starting at $20.72 per hour.

If I apply, will I definitely get accepted?

Not everyone who applies will get accepted because there are more qualified candidates than available jobs.

When will I start?

If you are selected as an apprentice you can expect to begin working for a Local 103, IBEW signatory contractor in June or July and school will begin in September. For example, someone applying in November 2022 will likely begin work in June or July 2023 and school in September 2023. These dates are subject to change.

What is on the Aptitude Test?

Click here for a complete description of everything that is on the test.
Important info: Common mistakes Applicants make are not reading the Aptitude Test Description or referring to outside sources who may give incorrect information about the test. The description in the link here provides a complete, thorough list of what is on the test. There are no additional subjects on the test.  There is no algebra on the test.

How can I prepare for the Aptitude Test?

To prepare for the Aptitude Test you should:

  1. Read the Aptitude Test Description carefully. Click here for a complete description of everything that is on the test.
  2. Follow the suggested methods for studying listed under each subject.

There is an optional test prep course offered by an independent vendor: Lewis Latimer Test Prep Course Info
Disclaimer of Endorsement: Any reference in this website to any person, or organization, or activities, products, or services, related to such person or organization, or any linkages from this web site to the web site of another party, do not constitute or imply the endorsement, recommendation, or favoring of the JATC of Greater Boston, or any of its employees or contractors acting on its behalf.

If I applied before, will I have to take the Aptitude Test again?

If you scored High within the past three years, you will not be scheduled for the aptitude test again.  You will receive notification that we will apply your previous test score to your current application.

Will kind of work will I be doing?

Click here for Job Description of an Apprentice Electrician and Technician

Will I have to find my own job?

If you are selected as an apprentice the JATC will assign you for employment with a Local 103 IBEW signatory contractor.

If I have previous experience do I have to do all five years of the apprenticeship?

We don’t offer advanced placement in the program regardless of previous work of school experience.

How much will the program cost me?

There is no tuition.  Applicants must pay the application fee and apprentices are required to purchase books and pay apprentice fees each year.  Books and fees are approximately $500 to $950 per apprentice, per year.

Will I have to pay union dues?

Union membership is between the member and IBEW Local 103. If you are selected as an apprentice, you will begin paying union dues and scheduled for initiation into membership. The link to their website and contact information can be found here: https://the103advantage.com/

Will I have to pay for my health insurance?

Health care costs are paid for by contributions the employers make as part of your hourly package that also includes an annuity and a local pension. For more information visit Local 103’s Trust Funds Office website at https://www.trustfunds103.com/

What type of COVID-19 Vaccination card will be required?

If you are accepted and we request your Covid-19 Vaccination Record, your card must show proof that you are fully vaccinated (“Fully vaccinated” means you received two (2) doses of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, or one (1) dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine).

What is the difference between Telecommunications and Electrical work?

Please read the descriptions of both trades below.

Telecommunications Job Description
This apprenticeship leads to the Systems Technician “D”  license. Technicians install, maintain, replace and repair electrical systems and equipment of under 100 volt-amperes, including protective signaling systems (fire alarm, nurse call, security), communications systems (data telecommunications, intercom and paging) and specialized control systems (HVAC, medical, boiler, clock and instrumentation). Technicians complete Cisco & CompTIA certifications to provide the skills and knowledge to install and maintain Network Hardware/Software/Data/Voice/Wireless/Security, Physical Security (Surveillance/Access Control/Forensic), IoT – Internet of Things (Sensors/Controls/Automation), and Audio-Visual Systems.
Telecommunications Working Conditions
Systems Technicians work indoors and outdoors. The work requires standing, bending and reaching in cold and wet conditions, and working either in confined crawl spaces or at heights. Tools used include: electrical metering devices, cable pulling devices, electrical hand tools, soldering tools, hammers, drills and side cutters.

Inside Wireman (Electrician) Job Description
This apprenticeship leads to the Journeyman Electrician ”B”  license. Inside wiremen perform electrical installations, construction, maintenance, repair and service. They work on electrical construction projects ranging from single-family residences, high rise commercial projects to state-of-the-art industrial projects. They install conduits and wire lighting, switches, converters, and complex electrical systems.
Inside Wireman (Electrician) Working Conditions
Electricians work outside in the mud, dirt, cold, sun, rain and snow; inside and climate-controlled modern offices; and in clean rooms in hospitals and manufacturing plants. The work requires standing, bending, crawling, lifting, climbing, pulling and reaching and working in cramped spaces or on ladders and scaffolding. Hazards include falling, electric shocks, burns and falling objects.

 

 

 

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