Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship Program

Wonderful Pistachios & Almonds is committed to making a meaningful, multi-generational impact in the Central Valley of California by addressing social determinants of health and breaking the cycle of poverty. Our mission-driven approach to Corporate Social Responsibility is rooted in community support and sustainable development.

The Wonderful Career Center (WCC), in partnership with Bakersfield College, offers a fully-funded, year-long Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship (MTA) program that combines hands-on learning, professional mentorship, and college credit. Apprentices are hired directly by Wonderful Pistachios & Almonds at the start of the program, providing an immediate career opportunity with one of the Central Valley’s leading employers.

The Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship (MTA) is an intensive, year-long, paid apprenticeship program offering on-the-job training in Lost Hills, CA, alongside classroom and lab instruction at the Wonderful Career Center in Shafter, CA. The program is designed to develop technical skills and provide hands-on experience, aligning with industry standards and expectations.

What You’ll Learn:

The MTA program provides a structured curriculum developed in partnership with Bakersfield College, including:

• Basic Electronics
• Electric Motors
• Mechanical Systems
• Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)
• Occupational Safety & Risk Management

This comprehensive training equips apprentices with essential skills in Industrial Automation, preparing them for a successful and impactful career in maintenance and technical operations.

What You’ll Gain Experience In:

As a Maintenance Technician Apprentice, you will gain experience in various critical areas, including:

• Maintenance Support: Provide tools, materials, and recordkeeping assistance to maintenance personnel, distinguishing between standard and metric tools.
• Electrical, Instrumentation, and Control (EIC) Support: Assist in repairing electrical components, completing facility projects, and performing preventive maintenance on electrical systems.

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Related Experience Recommended: At least 1 year of experience in a similar industrial, manufacturing, or maintenance environment is highly recommended. Candidates should have foundational skills, including basic machine operation, tool identification, and familiarity with safety protocols.
• Commitment to Complete the Program: Willingness and ability to complete the full year-long apprenticeship program.

Critical Skills and Expectations:

• Ability to work as part of a team and follow standard operating procedures.
• Basic math skills and entry-level computer proficiency preferred.
• Effective communication skills in English or Spanish; bilingual candidates are preferred but not required.
• Physical capability to handle the job's demands, including lifting up to 50 pounds and standing for extended periods.
• Willingness to work in varying environmental conditions (temperatures, dust, noise) with appropriate safety equipment provided.

• Program Start Date: January 27th, 2025
• Work Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM during classroom training at the Wonderful Career Center (Shafter, CA). Once on-the-job training (OJT) begins, candidates must be flexible and open to working any shift, including nights and weekends, as needed
• Location: Wonderful Career Center (Shafter, CA) for training; on-the-job training in Lost Hills, CA
• Compensation: Starting wage of $19.80/hour, with progressive raises as you achieve training milestones

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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