Umair Gaines
Electrical linemen, also known as lineworkers, are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing electric power lines and other equipment used in electrical distribution and transmission systems. It is a challenging and important job that requires specialized skills and knowledge. If you are interested in becoming an electrical lineman, there are several steps you can take to pursue this career. First, you will need to obtain a high school diploma or GED. Next, you may need to attend a trade school or complete an apprenticeship program to gain the necessary skills and experience. Some companies may also require additional certifications or a valid driver's license. Let's take a closer look at the path to becoming an electrical lineman.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Education | High school diploma or GED |
| Trade school or lineman school | |
| Apprenticeship | |
| Skills | Climbing |
| Equipment repair | |
| Reading voltages | |
| Cable splicing | |
| Familiarity with tools | |
| Requirements | Driver's license |
| Drug testing | |
| Age: 18 years or older | |
| Salary | $24.16 per hour (average base salary) |
| Overtime compensation | |
| Job Outlook | Little to no change from 2020-2030 |
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Educational requirements
To become an electrical lineman, also known as a lineworker, you will need a high school diploma or GED, and a driver's license.
While some companies offer apprenticeship programs that do not require prior qualifications, it is becoming increasingly common for aspiring linemen to attend a trade school or community college to gain essential knowledge and skills before applying for an apprenticeship. These pre-apprenticeship programs can last anywhere from two months to a year and teach students how to climb poles, use tools, splice cables, and repair equipment. Some community colleges offer more in-depth, two-year associate degree programs.
After completing a pre-apprenticeship program, you can apply for an apprenticeship with a trade union or company. Apprenticeships typically include classroom instruction and extensive on-the-job training, and they can last from two to four years. To be eligible for an apprenticeship, you must be 18 years old and have a valid driver's license.
While not mandatory, many employers prefer candidates who are certified. In addition, certain jobs may require a safety certification.
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Apprenticeships
To become an apprentice, you must be at least 18 years old and possess a high school diploma or GED certificate. Some programs may require additional qualifications, such as a commercial driver's license (CDL) and good grades in subjects like math and algebra.
During the apprenticeship, you will learn to service, repair, and install electric power lines, working at great heights to climb poles and towers. You will also gain experience with various equipment and materials, including broadcast equipment, fiber optic cable, and radios for communication. Safety is a critical aspect of the training, as linemen often work with high-voltage electricity and in challenging weather conditions.
The duration of apprenticeships can vary, typically ranging from three to four years, or 7,000 hours of training. Some programs may take up to five years to complete. Upon completion, apprentices receive a journeyman card or license, certifying their competence to perform any high-voltage procedure.
There are various pathways to finding apprenticeship opportunities. Trade unions, power companies, and equipment manufacturers often offer these programs, providing a direct route to gaining the necessary skills and experience. Additionally, community colleges and schools may offer apprenticeship programs in partnership with companies. It is beneficial to research and apply to multiple sources to increase your chances of securing an apprenticeship position.
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Trade school
When choosing a trade school, it's important to consider the training on offer, the experience of the instructors, and the school's relationships with employers and average placement rates. Some schools, like Tulsa Welding School, offer a mix of classroom and field training, providing students with the skills, confidence, and opportunities needed to succeed in the electrical linework industry.
While completing a program at a trade school is not a requirement to become an electrical lineman, it can increase your chances of landing a job. Many companies require an apprenticeship or other employee training programs, and having completed a trade school program can help you secure an apprenticeship or entry-level position.
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Salary expectations
Electrical linemen install, maintain, and repair electric power lines and other equipment used in electrical distribution and transmission systems. They are also called linemen, electric linemen, line installers and repairers, lineworkers, and power line technicians. The salary expectations for electrical linemen vary depending on various factors such as experience, location, and the type of work performed.
According to Indeed Salaries, the average base salary for a lineworker is $24.16 per hour. This equates to approximately $49,000 annually, assuming a 40-hour workweek. It is important to note that this is an average, and salaries can vary depending on the specific company, industry, and geographic location. Lineworkers can also earn additional pay through overtime compensation.
The salary for electrical linemen can also vary depending on the type of work they perform. For example, transmission linemen, who work on the transmission side of the electric grid and climb 100 feet off the ground, may earn a higher salary compared to distribution linemen. Distribution linemen work on the distribution side, transporting electricity locally from substations to users, and typically climb around 50 feet off the ground.
In addition to the base salary, electrical linemen may also receive other benefits as part of their compensation package. These benefits can include medical insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and other perks. Some companies may also offer performance-based bonuses or incentives for working in hazardous conditions.
It is worth noting that the salary expectations for electrical linemen can change over time due to various factors such as economic conditions, demand for skilled workers, and collective bargaining agreements. Therefore, it is important to stay informed about the latest salary trends and negotiate accordingly when applying for jobs or considering career advancement opportunities.
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Job duties
Electrical linemen, also known as lineworkers, install, maintain and repair electric power lines and other equipment used in electrical distribution and transmission systems. They work for utility, telecommunications, or energy companies. Linemen are expected to work through intricate electrical processes while maintaining balance and composure at great heights. This job is considered dangerous as it involves working with high-voltage electricity.
Linemen are responsible for bringing power to the pole and climbing up to 100 feet off the ground. They use hand tools like wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, wire stripping tools, and bolt cutters to service power lines. They also use climbing gear such as gaffs, straps, and climbing spikes to scale utility poles. Linemen wear climbing belts to safely climb poles and service power lines. They also use personal protective grounding equipment like clamps, cables, clusters, and ferrules to stay safe while working with electricity.
Linemen must also be able to drive bucket trucks to access power lines strung on poles. They are required to have a driver's license and may need to drive for hours to reach job sites during their training. Linemen should also be prepared to work in dangerous conditions and be dedicated to safety. They must take precautions to protect themselves from electric shock, such as wearing insulated gloves and using tools insulated with non-conductive substances.
In addition to technical skills, linemen should possess certain qualities to excel in their roles. They should be hardworking, safety-conscious, and willing to learn. Independence is also a key trait as the job requires working outdoors with a high level of autonomy.
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Frequently asked questions
Electrical linemen install, maintain, and repair electric power lines and other equipment used in electrical distribution and transmission systems. They are also known as linemen, electric linemen, line installers and repairers, lineworkers, and power line technicians.
You need a high school diploma or GED, a driver's license, and in some states, a license. You can then either attend a trade school or complete an apprenticeship program. Some companies may require you to have a degree or additional certifications.
You need to be physically fit and agile as the job requires climbing to great heights. You also need to be detail-oriented, independent, and safety-conscious.
The median annual wage for line installers and repairers was $68,030 in May 2020. However, electrical line installers and repairers in the electric power generation, transmission, and distribution industry earned a median annual income of $81,930.
It depends on the route you take. Apprenticeships and training programs can take anywhere from a few weeks to four years.
