Apprenticeship

Sign Electrician

Sign electricians install, maintain and repair electrical signs and lighting systems in commercial, industrial and public spaces. RCC’s Sign Electrician Apprenticeship Program combines hands-on training with classroom instruction to prepare students for careers in illuminated signage. Apprentices gain experience working with neon, LED and other lighting technologies used in a wide range of sign installations.

Program Overview

The Sign Electrician Apprenticeship Program takes approximately 4 years to complete and combines 8,000 hours of on-the-job training with 576 hours of classroom instruction. The program prepares apprentices to take the state licensing exam and offers multiple educational and professional opportunities, including:

• Earning an RCC Certificate of Completion upon finishing the apprenticeship.
• Receiving a journeyman card from the State of Oregon.
• Obtaining a Limited Journeyman Sign Electrician license after passing the state licensing exam.
• Option to pursue an associate degree in a related technical field.

Career & Salary Outlook

• Sign Electrician
  Installs and maintains electrical signs, including illuminated and digital signage for businesses and public spaces.
• Lighting Maintenance Technician
  Maintains and troubleshoots exterior lighting and signage systems, including parking lot and building-mounted fixtures.
• Commercial Sign Installer
  Installs large-scale signage on buildings, poles and structures, often requiring electrical connections and structural knowledge.
• Field Service Technician (Signage)
  Performs on-site repair, maintenance and troubleshooting of electrical signs and lighting systems.

Pay increases significantly after certification. Experienced sign electricians can earn $55,000-$85,000+ per year, depending on the industry, location and level of responsibility. 

Application Process

The Sign Electrician Apprenticeship Program is open for applications year-round. Out-of-work apprentices in good standing will be given priority for reemployment before new applicants are considered, in accordance with the committee’s approved policy.

As the program currently has fewer than five registered apprentices, it is not required by the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) to maintain a formal selection procedure.
Applicants are considered for available openings as they arise, based on program needs and training agent availability. All interested parties are encouraged to submit an application and will be contacted if selected for potential placement.

Tip: To increase your chances of entering the program, we highly encourage applicants to secure employment with one of our training agents — even in an entry-level role. Find approved training agents by going to Oregon BOLI Apprenticeship and searching for program MA #5004.

Estimated Program Costs