San Francisco will invest nearly $9 billion in improving and maintaining the City’s infrastructure through the Ten-Year Capital Plan and create tens of thousands of jobs. Public Works is committed to helping San Franciscans attain the skills and experience they need to be part of this growing workforce. In partnership with Human Services Agency, JOBSNOW and local unions, our apprenticeship programs provide training to hundreds of participants.
Apprentice Arborist Technician
The Arborist Technician Apprenticeship Program is a rigorous, state-approved training pathway that prepares individuals for skilled careers in urban forestry. Apprentices work alongside journey-level arborists within the Bureau of Urban Forestry and are trained in accordance with industry best practices, safety regulations and City standards. On the job, apprentices perform a wide range of technical duties including pruning, climbing, cabling, felling trees and maintaining green infrastructure. They operate specialized tools such as chainsaws, pole pruners, chippers and aerial lifts, and learn advanced climbing techniques using harnesses and rope systems. Ground support responsibilities include debris removal, brush chipping, tree planting, and inspecting trees for disease, pest damage or structural instability. Apprentices also respond to storm-related emergencies and hazardous limb removals.
For more information, see the Department of Human Resources job classification #3408 and #3409
Apprentice Cement Mason
Our Cement Mason Apprenticeship Program provides entry level positions to individuals transitioning into cement mason jobs. Apprentices receive on-the-job training in various aspects of cement masonry work, and attend related supplemental instruction on their own time, which provides detailed training as to the proper use and maintenance of tools, equipment and materials utilized in the performance of concrete work, as well as the technical methods and procedures for mixing, pouring and finishing concrete.
For more information, see the Department of Human Resources job classification 7398
Apprentice Gardener
Our Horticulture Training Program provides entry level positions to individuals transitioning into gardening jobs. Learn to perform care and maintenance of plants and landscaped areas including planting, pruning and pest control. Participate in training programs and work hand in hand with our gardeners to maintain public squares, parks, median strips, playgrounds and other landscaped areas.
For more information, see the Department of Human Resources job classification #3410
Apprentice General Plumber
This highly technical apprenticeship trains individuals in all aspects of plumbing installation, repair and maintenance. Apprentices are deployed across Public Works sites to gain hands-on experience under the supervision of licensed journey-level plumbers. Core responsibilities include cutting, threading and fitting pipes; installing and replacing fixtures; maintaining water heaters and boilers; trenching and laying underground piping; and unclogging drains or sewer lines. Apprentices also perform backflow prevention work, pressure testing and water main shutdowns when required.
For more information, see the Department of Human Resources job classification #7465 and #7466
Apprentice Laborer/Environmental Service Worker
Our state certified program provides entry level positions to individuals transitioning into laborer jobs. Learn to remove graffiti, refuse and dirt, operate power equipment, load and unload material in a safe manner, set up traffic barricades, repair equipment and much more. Participate in training programs and work hand in hand with Public Works employees to beautify and maintain city streets, landscaped areas and public facilities in a safe, healthy and attractive condition.
For more information, see the Department of Human Resources job classification #7501
Apprentice Stationary Engineer
Administered in partnership with Stationary Engineers Local 39, this four-year program prepares apprentices to manage complex mechanical and electrical systems that power municipal buildings and infrastructure. Apprentices rotate through various City departments to gain diverse experience with different systems and facility types. Typical job duties include maintaining boilers, HVAC units, air handling systems, electrical panels, generators, water pumps, elevators and computerized building management systems. Apprentices assist with routine maintenance tasks such as filter changes, temperature adjustments, belt replacements and plumbing repairs, as well as diagnosing system malfunctions and responding to building service requests. Apprentices gain experience with both reactive and preventive maintenance, ensuring buildings are safe, code-compliant and energy efficient.
For more information, see the Department of Human Resources job classification #7314 and #7333
Pre-Apprenticeship Program
Our Pre-Apprenticeship Program prepares Public Service Aides for future training as apprentice gardeners and laborers. Learn about our functions and programs, practice basic record keeping, provide information to the public, assist maintenance workers and gardeners, and much more. Participate in training classes on health and safety; communication skills; graffiti removal including product application and best practices; sweeping and weeding techniques; litter and debris pick-up; equipment and radio use and proper protocol and procedures.
For more information, see the Department of Human Resources job classification #9916
Office of Economic and Workforce Development training programs
San Francisco Building Trades Council apprenticeship programs
