Prevailing Wage & Apprenticeship FAQ
Prevailing Wage & Apprenticeship FAQ
Registered apprentices in ETN of MN follow the wages outlined in their apprenticeship agreements. They are not subject to prevailing wage rates as long as they are supervised properly and performing apprentice-level work.
On state projects, journeyworkers and unlicensed electricians must be paid the prevailing wage. ETN of MN apprentices are paid based on their agreement as long as proper supervision and ratios are maintained.
On federal jobs, ETN apprentices are paid the percentage listed in their agreement of either the federal base rate or agreement base rate—whichever is higher. If fringe is not listed in the apprenticeship agreement, the full fringe on the federal wage determination must be paid.
If apprentices are unsupervised, they must be paid full prevailing wage. This includes running errands or working independently—ratios and supervision rules must be followed.
Use the prevailing wage certification which shows the base rate, fringe rate, and total rate. Wages can be a mix of base + fringe as long as they meet the total. Benefits not managed by a third-party must be documented in writing and enforceable.
Always refer to the contract. Do not use DLI’s online rates unless directed. Rates may differ based on contract dates or bid year, especially for design/build projects.
State projects require overtime after 8 hours/day or 40 hours/week. Overtime = 1.5x the base + full fringe. Calculate both and pay the greater. No pyramiding required.
Federal prevailing wage only requires overtime after 40 hours/week—no daily threshold. Overtime = 1.5x regular rate of pay.
List all workers, hours, wages, fringe contributions, and deductions. Include owners and apprentices. Use the second page to explain fringe plans. Submissions must be accurate and complete. False reporting can result in audits or legal action.
The Electrical Association offers consulting services to members, especially before contracts are signed. Contact Michelle Dreier at (612) 252-2186 or (800) 829-6117 for pricing and support.