Virtual Design Construction Apprenticeship Program

Interstates; Sioux Center (IA); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company is offering a VDC Apprentice position aimed at developing skills in Virtual Design and Construction. This structured program provides hands-on experience in electrical work and drafting, emphasizing the importance of drive and character for success in a growing field. Apprentices will gain comprehensive expertise in VDC technologies, collaborating with experienced professionals while progressively increasing responsibilities.

Benefits

Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

401(k) plan

Vacation time

Performance Bonus

Career Coaches

Qualifications

• High school diploma is required.
• Enrollment in drafting or construction management program preferred.
• Familiarity with BIM software like Revit or AutoCAD is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Learn Electrical System Modeling by creating layouts in 3D.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including architects and engineers.
• Manage Electrical Documentation like schematics and diagrams.

Skills

Attention to detail

Problem-solving

Communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Technical training in drafting or CAD

Tools

Revit

AutoCAD

Navisworks

Job description

Overview

Welcome to a career that is built to last.

The VDC Apprentice program is a structured training pathway designed to develop skilled Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) professionals from entry-level to senior positions. This program emphasizes the importance of drive and character, essential traits for success in a dynamic field. Apprentices will have the unique opportunity to travel and gain hands-on experience in both electrical work and drafting, broadening their skill set and knowledge base. Throughout the program, they will build comprehensive expertise in VDC technologies and processes, progressively increasing their responsibilities. Under the guidance of senior VDC professionals, apprentices will learn to create and manage 3D models, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and ensure quality construction design at every phase.

At Interstates, our success starts with yours.

About us: Interstates meets the electrical and automation needs of companies around the world. For over sixty years, we have tackled complex challenges and developed innovative solutions for industrial manufacturing and processing facilities. What started as a small electric company has evolved into an organization with over 1,000 employees and multiple locations throughout the Midwest. At Interstates, we treat each other like family because our team is the foundation for our success. Our collaborative workplace is based on trust, integrity, and support for one another.

Interstates Describes Its Culture as: Family-Like:

• Caring co-workers treat each other like family
• Be treated like an individual, not just a number
• Flexible schedules allow you tofocus on your personal lifeas well as work-life
• Lunch gatherings and social activities promotes fun and camaraderie
• Support charities and your community through events sponsored and hosted by Interstates

Benefits:

• Competitive Pay so you know you are valued
• 401(k) to help you plan for your future
• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance with different options to meet your needs
• Vacation so you can focus on you
• Performance Bonus just in time for holiday shopping
• Established Career Paths to help plan your future
• Career Coaches that are focused on your success

Application End Date: May 30, 2025

The entry-level wage for this apprenticeship program is $20.35 per hour. This wage reflects the entry-level pay where you will begin working while acquiring foundational skills and knowledge specific to the trade. Some candidates, depending on previous experience, may start the apprenticeship at a higher level.

As you progress through the program, and gain experience, your wage will increase in accordance with our program standards. This wage progression is tied to your growing expertise, completion of required training, and the value you bring to the role as you learn more advanced skills. This structure ensures that as you become more skilled, you are compensated accordingly, reflecting both your increased responsibilities and expertise.

Responsibilities

• Learn Electrical System Modeling: Gain proficiency in creating detailed electrical layouts within 3D models, utilizing software like Revit to integrate electrical designs.
• Understand Electrical Codes and Standards: Study relevant electrical codes, such as the National Electrical Code (NEC), to ensure all designs comply with industry regulations and standards.
• Collaborate with Multidisciplinary Teams: Work alongside architects, structural engineers, and mechanical contractors to incorporate electrical systems seamlessly into the overall construction design.
• Manage Electrical Documentation: Develop skills in creating and managing comprehensive electrical documentation, including schematics, wiring diagrams, and specifications.
• Ensure Quality Control: Participate in quality assurance processes to validate the accuracy and functionality of electrical designs during each phase of the construction project.

By the end of the program, apprentices will be equipped with the skills necessary to manage complex electrical systems within VDC environments, ensuring high-quality construction design and integration.

Entry Level (Phase 1) Summary:

This phase involves learning the basics of VDC technologies, including BIM software like Revit, AutoCAD, and Navisworks through hands-on and formal education courses. You will assist in creating and updating models, following company and project standards, and support experienced team members with coordinating project drawings across electrical deliverables. You'll participate in clash detection exercises and help resolve minor design conflicts. Observing project meetings will help you understand construction coordination, and you'll develop basic skills in reading and interpreting construction documents. Time spent on site and in Pre-Fabrication working alongside electricians will provide real hands-on installation experience to advance practical electrical knowledge.

Intermediate Level (Phase 2) Summary:

At this stage, you'll take on more responsibility in developing and maintaining detailed 3D models for active projects. You'll lead small-scale coordination tasks, ensuring accuracy across design disciplines. You'll be more involved in clash detection, troubleshooting issues, and suggesting solutions. Additionally, you'll manage project documentation, ensuring models are up-to-date, and assist in preparing progress reports for stakeholders. You'll also deepen your understanding of construction practices and VDC applications for specific project types. Returning to site, you will experience the complexities of planning and executing electrical layouts that can be constructed effectively.

Advanced Level (Phase 3) Summary:

At this level, you'll take ownership of large-scale model coordination, working with senior VDC staff to lead project reviews and ensure quality control. You'll mentor new VDC hires, helping them with tasks and learning. You'll also contribute to the strategic implementation of new VDC technologies across projects. Leading coordination meetings, identifying design conflicts, and driving resolutions will be key responsibilities. Additionally, you'll prepare presentations and report out to internal and external clients, ensuring project designs align with construction schedules and standards in collaboration with engineers and project managers. Additional hands-on experience with electrical installation and onsite leadership will be available to further constructability knowledge.

Qualifications

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.

• Enrollment in or completion of a technical training program in drafting, CAD, construction management, or a related field preferred.

• Familiarity with BIM software like Revit, AutoCAD, or Navisworks is an advantage but notrequired.

• Strong interest in learning about construction technology and design processes.

• Excellent attention to detail and problem-solving skills.

• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to work well in a team environment.

• Ability to manage tasks and prioritize in a fast-paced, evolving environment.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to work at a computer for extended periods.

• Occasionally may require visiting construction sites, which may involve standing, walking, and adhering to safety protocols.

Travel Requirements: This position requires travel as part of the apprenticeship program. The travel will involve semi-permanent relocation, meaning that you may need to move to different locations for extended periods during your training. These relocations are necessary for you to gain hands-on experience in various environments and with different teams.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.

• Enrollment in or completion of a technical training program in drafting, CAD, construction management, or a related field preferred.

• Familiarity with BIM software like Revit, AutoCAD, or Navisworks is an advantage but notrequired.

• Strong interest in learning about construction technology and design processes.

• Excellent attention to detail and problem-solving skills.

• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to work well in a team environment.

• Ability to manage tasks and prioritize in a fast-paced, evolving environment.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to work at a computer for extended periods.

• Occasionally may require visiting construction sites, which may involve standing, walking, and adhering to safety protocols.

Travel Requirements: This position requires travel as part of the apprenticeship program. The travel will involve semi-permanent relocation, meaning that you may need to move to different locations for extended periods during your training. These relocations are necessary for you to gain hands-on experience in various environments and with different teams.

• Learn Electrical System Modeling: Gain proficiency in creating detailed electrical layouts within 3D models, utilizing software like Revit to integrate electrical designs.
• Understand Electrical Codes and Standards: Study relevant electrical codes, such as the National Electrical Code (NEC), to ensure all designs comply with industry regulations and standards.
• Collaborate with Multidisciplinary Teams: Work alongside architects, structural engineers, and mechanical contractors to incorporate electrical systems seamlessly into the overall construction design.
• Manage Electrical Documentation: Develop skills in creating and managing comprehensive electrical documentation, including schematics, wiring diagrams, and specifications.
• Ensure Quality Control: Participate in quality assurance processes to validate the accuracy and functionality of electrical designs during each phase of the construction project.

By the end of the program, apprentices will be equipped with the skills necessary to manage complex electrical systems within VDC environments, ensuring high-quality construction design and integration.

Entry Level (Phase 1) Summary:

This phase involves learning the basics of VDC technologies, including BIM software like Revit, AutoCAD, and Navisworks through hands-on and formal education courses. You will assist in creating and updating models, following company and project standards, and support experienced team members with coordinating project drawings across electrical deliverables. You'll participate in clash detection exercises and help resolve minor design conflicts. Observing project meetings will help you understand construction coordination, and you'll develop basic skills in reading and interpreting construction documents. Time spent on site and in Pre-Fabrication working alongside electricians will provide real hands-on installation experience to advance practical electrical knowledge.

Intermediate Level (Phase 2) Summary:

At this stage, you'll take on more responsibility in developing and maintaining detailed 3D models for active projects. You'll lead small-scale coordination tasks, ensuring accuracy across design disciplines. You'll be more involved in clash detection, troubleshooting issues, and suggesting solutions. Additionally, you'll manage project documentation, ensuring models are up-to-date, and assist in preparing progress reports for stakeholders. You'll also deepen your understanding of construction practices and VDC applications for specific project types. Returning to site, you will experience the complexities of planning and executing electrical layouts that can be constructed effectively.

Advanced Level (Phase 3) Summary:

At this level, you'll take ownership of large-scale model coordination, working with senior VDC staff to lead project reviews and ensure quality control. You'll mentor new VDC hires, helping them with tasks and learning. You'll also contribute to the strategic implementation of new VDC technologies across projects. Leading coordination meetings, identifying design conflicts, and driving resolutions will be key responsibilities. Additionally, you'll prepare presentations and report out to internal and external clients, ensuring project designs align with construction schedules and standards in collaboration with engineers and project managers. Additional hands-on experience with electrical installation and onsite leadership will be available to further constructability knowledge.