ChargePoint, North America's largest EV charging network operator, has hired 47 ChargeUpTalent graduates since 2023. We sat down with Michael Chen, Director of Field Operations, and Sarah Rodriguez, VP of Talent Acquisition, to understand why they continue to partner with us and what they look for in new technicians.
About ChargePoint
Founded in 2007, ChargePoint operates the world's largest EV charging network with over 275,000 charging spots across North America and Europe. The company has facilitated more than 9 billion electric miles and continues to expand rapidly as EV adoption accelerates.
"We're not just building charging stations," explains Chen. "We're building the infrastructure foundation for the entire electric transportation revolution. That requires people who understand both the technology and the bigger picture."
The Partnership Origin Story
ChargePoint's partnership with ChargeUpTalent began in 2022 when the company was struggling to find qualified field technicians for their rapid expansion.
"We were hiring traditional electricians and trying to train them on EV technology," recalls Rodriguez. "The learning curve was steep, and we were losing good people who felt overwhelmed by the complexity. When we heard about ChargeUpTalent's specialized program, we knew we had to check it out."
"ChargeUpTalent graduates come to us with the right foundation. They understand the technology, they know the safety protocols, and they're passionate about the mission. It's a game-changer for our hiring process." — Sarah Rodriguez, VP of Talent Acquisition, ChargePoint
What ChargePoint Looks For in Technicians
Technical Competencies
Chen emphasizes that while technical skills are important, they're looking for more than just basic electrical knowledge.
- Systems Thinking: Understanding how charging networks integrate with vehicles and the grid
- Problem-Solving: Ability to diagnose complex issues with limited information
- Safety Mindset: Rigorous adherence to high-voltage safety protocols
- Technology Adaptation: Willingness to learn new systems and software
Soft Skills and Attitude
"Technical skills can be taught, but attitude and work ethic are harder to develop," notes Rodriguez. "We look for people who are genuinely excited about being part of the EV revolution."
- Customer Focus: Understanding that every interaction represents the EV experience
- Communication: Ability to explain technical issues to non-technical customers
- Reliability: Consistent performance in challenging field conditions
- Growth Mindset: Eagerness to learn and advance within the company
The ChargeUpTalent Advantage
Practical Training Experience
Chen particularly values the hands-on nature of ChargeUpTalent's curriculum.
"When we hire a ChargeUpTalent graduate, they've already worked with real charging equipment, not just studied it in a book. They understand the practical challenges of field installation and maintenance."
Industry-Relevant Curriculum
The curriculum's focus on real-world scenarios impresses both hiring managers.
- Network Diagnostics: Troubleshooting connectivity and communication issues
- Customer Service Integration: Understanding the business side of EV operations
- Safety Culture: Rigorous high-voltage safety training
- Technology Evolution: Adaptability to rapidly changing systems
Career Paths at ChargePoint
Field Service Technician Track
Most ChargeUpTalent graduates start as Field Service Technicians with clear advancement opportunities.
- Entry Level: $58,000-$68,000 (Field Service Technician I)
- Experienced: $68,000-$78,000 (Field Service Technician II)
- Senior Level: $78,000-$88,000 (Senior Field Service Technician)
- Leadership: $88,000-$105,000 (Field Service Supervisor)
Specialized Career Tracks
ChargePoint offers multiple advancement paths beyond traditional field service.
- Technical Specialist: Advanced troubleshooting and engineering support
- Training and Development: Teaching new technicians and customers
- Project Management: Leading large installation and upgrade projects
- Sales Engineering: Technical sales support and solution design
Employee Benefits and Culture
Comprehensive Benefits Package
- Health Benefits: Medical, dental, vision with company contribution
- Financial Benefits: 401(k) matching, stock options, bonus programs
- Professional Development: $3,000 annual education budget
- Work-Life Balance: Flexible schedules, remote work options
- Vehicle Program: Company vehicle for field technicians
Company Culture
"We're mission-driven," explains Chen. "Everyone here believes in accelerating the transition to electric transportation. That shared purpose creates a really collaborative environment."
- Innovation Focus: Employees encouraged to suggest improvements
- Diversity and Inclusion: Active commitment to diverse hiring
- Environmental Responsibility: Sustainable business practices
- Community Engagement: Local outreach and education programs
Day in the Life: Field Service Technician
To give prospective employees a realistic view, Rodriguez walks us through a typical day for their field technicians.
Morning Routine
- 7:00 AM: Check overnight alerts and plan daily route
- 7:30 AM: Load vehicle with necessary parts and tools
- 8:00 AM: Travel to first service location
Service Calls
- Preventive Maintenance: Routine inspections and updates (2-3 sites)
- Repair Calls: Troubleshooting and fixing malfunctioning equipment (1-2 sites)
- Installation Support: Assisting with new station deployments (as needed)
Administrative Tasks
- Service Documentation: Detailed reporting in company systems
- Parts Management: Inventory tracking and reorder requests
- Customer Communication: Updates and education for site hosts
Skills Development and Training
Onboarding Program
Even with ChargeUpTalent's preparation, ChargePoint provides comprehensive onboarding.
- Week 1: Company culture, systems training, safety certification
- Week 2: ChargePoint-specific technology and procedures
- Week 3: Field shadowing with experienced technicians
- Week 4: Independent work with close supervision
Continuing Education
"Technology changes fast in this industry," notes Chen. "We invest heavily in keeping our team current."
- Monthly Training: New product updates and best practices
- Certification Programs: Advanced technical and leadership training
- Conference Attendance: Industry events and networking opportunities
- Cross-Training: Exposure to different roles and departments
Hiring Process and Timeline
Application Process
ChargePoint has streamlined their hiring process for ChargeUpTalent graduates.
- Initial Application: Resume and basic information
- Phone Screen: 30-minute conversation with HR
- Technical Interview: 1-hour technical assessment with field supervisor
- Final Interview: Cultural fit and career goals discussion
- Offer and Onboarding: Typically within 2 weeks of application
What Sets Candidates Apart
Rodriguez shares what impresses her most in interviews:
- Specific Examples: Concrete stories from training experiences
- Problem-Solving Approach: Methodical thinking through technical challenges
- Customer Awareness: Understanding the end-user experience
- Growth Orientation: Clear career goals and learning mindset
Future Expansion Plans
Aggressive Growth Targets
ChargePoint plans to double their network size by 2027, creating significant opportunities for new technicians.
- New Markets: Expansion into 50 additional metropolitan areas
- Technology Upgrades: Retrofit projects for enhanced capabilities
- Commercial Focus: Fleet and workplace charging solutions
- International Growth: European expansion requiring U.S.-trained expertise
Evolving Skill Requirements
As the technology evolves, ChargePoint anticipates new skill requirements for their technicians.
- Software Integration: Vehicle-to-grid and smart charging systems
- Energy Management: Grid services and demand response programs
- Data Analytics: Performance optimization and predictive maintenance
- Customer Experience: Enhanced service delivery and relationship management
Advice for Prospective Employees
From Michael Chen, Director of Field Operations
"Be curious and stay hungry to learn. The EV industry is evolving rapidly, and the technicians who thrive are those who embrace change and continuously develop their skills."
From Sarah Rodriguez, VP of Talent Acquisition
"Show us your passion for the mission. We can teach technical skills, but we can't teach someone to care about building a sustainable future. That has to come from within."
Partnership Success Metrics
Quantitative Results
- Hiring Volume: 47 graduates hired since 2023
- Retention Rate: 95% still employed after 18 months
- Performance Ratings: 85% rated "exceeds expectations" or higher
- Promotion Rate: 40% promoted within first year
Qualitative Feedback
"The partnership has exceeded our expectations," concludes Rodriguez. "ChargeUpTalent graduates consistently demonstrate the technical competence, safety awareness, and customer focus we need. They're helping us build the future of transportation."
Ready to Join the ChargePoint Team?
ChargePoint actively recruits our graduates for field service positions across North America. Our training program prepares you for success in their rigorous hiring process and fast-paced work environment.