IBEW Local 46: Wages, Apprenticeship & Kent Jobs
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 46 serves electricians in King, Kitsap, Jefferson, and Clallam Counties. With 5,700+ members, Local 46 offers one of the best apprenticeship programs in Washington.
Journeyman Wage
$74.94/hr
Total package: $112.00/hr
Members
5,700+
King, Kitsap, Jefferson, and Clallam Counties
Contact Information
About IBEW Local 46
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 46 is one of the premier IBEW locals in the United States, representing over 5,700 electricians and electrical workers in King, Kitsap, Jefferson, and Clallam Counties.
As part of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 46 provides members with access to quality work, competitive wages, comprehensive benefits, and industry-leading training through Puget Sound Electrical JATC (PSEJATC).
Notable Facts
- One of the highest-paid IBEW locals in the country
- Strong presence in tech industry data centers
- Dedicated Stockman unit
- Serves Amazon and Microsoft headquarters regions
Jurisdiction
IBEW Local 46 represents electricians working in:
King, Kitsap, Jefferson, and Clallam Counties
Pay Scale & Benefits
IBEW Local 46 offers competitive wages and a comprehensive benefits package.
Wage Scale (2025)
Total package: $112.00/hr (includes pension, health, annuity)
Apprentice Progression
Benefits Package
- Health insurance (medical, dental, vision)
- Defined benefit pension plan
- Annuity/retirement savings
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- Vacation and holiday pay
- Continuing education
- Death benefit
Benefits are included in the total compensation package of $112.00/hr for journeymen.
Apprenticeship Program Overview
Puget Sound Electrical JATC (PSEJATC) offers a 5 years program to become a journeyman electrician.
Duration
5 years of combined classroom instruction and on-the-job training
Hours Required
8,000 hours of on-the-job training across 12 work categories
Training Center
Puget Sound Electrical JATC (PSEJATC)
550 SW 7th St, Renton, WA 98057
Program Highlights
Strong Limited Energy (Low Voltage) program due to tech industry
Data center electrical specialization
High demand from Amazon, Microsoft headquarters areas
How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply for the IBEW Local 46 apprenticeship program.
Meet Basic Requirements
You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and have completed at least one year of Algebra with a passing grade (C or better). A valid driver's license is typically required.
Submit Your Application
Apply through Puget Sound Electrical JATC (PSEJATC) during an open application window. Check their website regularly as applications are only accepted during specific periods.
Take the Aptitude Test
You'll need to pass an aptitude test that covers reading comprehension and algebra. Strong math skills are essential for scoring well.
Complete the Interview
Qualified applicants are invited to interview with the apprenticeship committee. Be prepared to discuss your interest in the trade and any relevant experience.
Wait for Ranking & Placement
Successful candidates are ranked and placed on a waiting list. When work is available, you'll be called to begin your apprenticeship.
Required Training Hours
IBEW Local 46 apprentices must complete 8,000 hours of on-the-job training across 12 standardized work categories established by the IBEW.
These hours must be documented and verified by your supervising journeyman and submitted to your JATC for approval.
+ 6 more categories
Track Your Hours with SparkShift
SparkShift makes it easy to track your 8,000-hour requirement. GPS-verified clock-ins, digital supervisor signatures, and exportable reports for your JATC.
- Log hours across all 12 IBEW categories
- GPS verification for jobsite accuracy
- Digital supervisor sign-off
- Export PDF reports for your training director
Free tier available. iOS & Android.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about IBEW Local 46 and its apprenticeship program.
How do I join the IBEW Local 46 apprenticeship?
Apply through the Puget Sound Electrical JATC (PSEJATC) in Renton, WA. Requirements include a high school diploma or GED, one year of Algebra with a passing grade, being at least 18, and a valid driver's license. Visit www.psejatc.org for current application windows.
What is the IBEW Local 46 pay scale?
IBEW Local 46 has some of the highest wages in the country. Journeyman Inside Wiremen earn approximately $74.94/hour base wage, with total compensation around $112/hour. First-year apprentices start at roughly 40% of journeyman scale.
How long is the IBEW Local 46 apprenticeship?
The Local 46 Inside Wireman apprenticeship is 5 years. You'll work full-time while attending classes at the PSEJATC training center in Renton. The program includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training in various electrical categories.
What areas does IBEW Local 46 cover?
IBEW Local 46's jurisdiction covers King County (including Seattle, Bellevue, Kent, Renton), Kitsap County (Bremerton), and Jefferson and Clallam Counties on the Olympic Peninsula. This includes the major tech hubs of the Pacific Northwest.
Why are IBEW Local 46 wages so high?
Local 46's high wages reflect the strong demand for skilled electricians in the Seattle tech corridor. The area's data center boom (Amazon, Microsoft, Google) and high cost of living drive competitive compensation. Recent contracts have seen significant wage increases.
Does IBEW Local 46 do data center work?
Yes, IBEW Local 46 members perform significant data center electrical work for major tech companies. The local has adapted training to include specialized skills for these high-demand projects, including critical power systems and advanced networking infrastructure.