Question 1

How much do Power Lineworkers make?

Accepted Answer

Power Lineworkers earn a national median salary of $85,430 per year, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Entry-level Power Lineworkers (10th percentile) earn around $49,244. Experienced professionals (90th percentile) can earn $125,445 or more. The highest-paying states for Power Lineworkers include Washington ($109K), California ($106K), and Connecticut ($104K).

Question 2

What does a Power Lineworker do?

Accepted Answer

Apply technical knowledge and skills to install, operate, maintain and repair local, long-distance, and rural electric power cables and communication lines; erect and construct pole and tower lines; and install underground lines and cables. Common day-to-day tasks include inspect, test, and measure completed work, using devices such as hand tools or gauges to verify conformance to standards or repair requirements, inspect and monitor work areas, examine tools and equipment, and provide employee safety training to prevent, detect, and correct unsafe conditions or violations of procedures and safety rules, and interpret specifications, blueprints, or job orders to construct templates and lay out reference points for workers. Power Lineworkers typically work in Utility company worksites, Outdoor job sites along roads and rights-of-way, Electrical substations and transmission corridors.

Question 3

How long does it take to become a Power Lineworker?

Accepted Answer

Most Power Lineworker training programs take 3mo-2yr to complete. Programs typically lead to a certificate or diploma and cover hands-on skills needed for entry-level positions. You can search and compare Power Lineworker programs at TradeSchoolGo to find one that fits your schedule and budget.

Question 4

Is Power Lineworker a good career?

Accepted Answer

The Power Lineworker field is projected to see 4.8% job growth, which is faster than average for all occupations, with approximately 31,550 job openings annually. Demand may rise as utilities modernize and expand the electric grid, add renewable generation, and harden infrastructure against storms and wildfires. Ongoing maintenance and replacement of aging lines and equipment also creates steady work.

Question 5

What skills do I need to become a Power Lineworker?

Accepted Answer

Key skills for Power Lineworkers include Electrical safety and hazard awareness, Climbing and working-at-heights skills, Troubleshooting and repair skills, Ability to read work orders, diagrams, and codes/standards, and Comfort operating bucket trucks and mobile equipment. These skills are developed through formal training programs and on-the-job experience.

Question 6

What is the work environment like for a Power Lineworker?

Accepted Answer

Power Lineworkers typically work in Utility company worksites, Outdoor job sites along roads and rights-of-way, Electrical substations and transmission corridors, Rural service areas, Storm restoration and emergency response sites. Work is often full-time with early starts, overtime, and on-call or rotating shifts, and it frequently changes with weather, outages, and contract timelines. The job is physically demanding, with lots of standing, climbing, balancing, and handling heavy tools and materials. Work is performed outdoors in varied weather and at heights, requiring strong safety habits and stamina.

Question 7

What are the pros and cons of being a Power Lineworker?

Accepted Answer

Advantages of a Power Lineworker career include high earning potential, strong demand for skilled workers, and hands-on work with clear results. Challenges to consider: the Power Lineworker trade can involve high safety risk from high voltage and working at heights, long hours and unpredictable schedules during outages, and physically strenuous work in harsh weather.

Question 8

How much does Power Lineworker school cost?

Accepted Answer

Power Lineworker training program costs vary depending on the school, location, and program length. Certificate programs are generally less expensive than associate degree programs. Financial aid, scholarships, and grants may be available to help cover costs. Browse and compare Power Lineworker programs with tuition information on TradeSchoolGo.

Question 9

Can I become a Power Lineworker without a college degree?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Power Lineworker careers typically require a certificate or diploma from a trade school or vocational program, not a four-year college degree. Most programs take 3mo-2yr to complete and focus on hands-on, practical training. Some Power Lineworkers also enter the field through apprenticeship programs that combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction.

Power Lineworker

What Power Lineworkers Do

Common Tasks

First-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers

What You'll Learn

Types of Power Lineworkers

Work Environment

Locations

Schedule

Physical Demands

Salary & Job Outlook

Top Paying States

Why Demand May Grow

Skills You'll Need

Pros & Cons

Pros

Cons

Common Questions About the Power Lineworker Trade

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