PowerPathway™—Career Prep

What makes PG&E an attractive employer? We take an active interest in the safety, health and well-being of every employee. We offer career growth opportunities through extensive training and professional development. In addition, PG&E provides:

  • Career Paths—PG&E follows an extensive apprentice system and invests significant training in building individuals' technical skills to prepare them for journey-level work.
  • Pay—PowerPathway courses can lead to positions at PG&E that earn a starting wage of $20.66 per hour or more.
  • Benefits—PG&E positions offer an exceptional benefits package, including company-paid pension and matching 401(k) plan, medical/dental/vision benefits, development opportunities, tuition reimbursement and much more.
  • Working Environment—Diversity and respect for one another are fundamental core values. We value the contribution that the diversity of interested job seekers can bring.
Photo of utility worker preparating hydraulic equipment

Job Descriptions

For additional information about any of these positions, choose from the links below.

Photo of male student on a higher education campus

Types of Prep Courses

PowerPathway courses are designed to bridge existing skill and knowledge levels and fall into one of the following categories:

  • Bridge Course Customized community college coursework spanning 10-16 weeks to introduce individuals to the energy industry's jobs and provide preparation for PG&E's pre-employment tests. Some courses are held during normal weekday hours, others are held in the evening or on weekends to accommodate work schedules. There are no additional Bridge Programs accepting applications at this time.
  • Endorsed Program Individuals seeking energy careers can expand on their formal training by completing coursework identified as related to PG&E positions. These programs lead to certificates of completion or associate degrees and are one or two years in length. Learn about the Butte College Capstone Welding Program. See the Butte College course schedule.
  • Capstone Course Additional customized community college coursework that focuses on skills specific to PG&E's needs and is for students who have completed a prerequisite associate degree or certificate. See the current course schedules.

How to Participate

Check the current course schedule for information on course location, job focus, start and end dates and hours, as well as information on how to apply to participate in each program.

To be eligible for PG&E employment, you must be at least 18 years of age by the time of employment, hold a valid California Class C Driver's License, and pass all required background checks (includes criminal history) and drug screening.

PLEASE NOTE: Only a limited number of candidates will be admitted into each PowerPathway course. While participation in a PowerPathway course does not guarantee a job at PG&E, it is PG&E's commitment to consider and evaluate all applicants who successfully complete the course.

PowerPathway Community College Network

PG&E works with a number of community colleges in offering new and innovative courses that will lead students to career paths with PG&E and related industries. This involvement allows participants to receive college credit. State, federal, community college system, and/or foundation grants may subsidize the training. The vice president of instruction, department dean and faculty members of community colleges normally comprise the team to liaise with PG&E.

Our Community College Network includes:


PowerPathway Outreach and Referral Network

Workforce Investment Boards (WIBs) and community-based organizations with a role in economic development have played an important role in identifying, assessing, screening or case-managing potential PowerPathway participants.

Our Outreach and Referral Network has included:

PowerPathway eNewsletter

Sign up for our newsletter.