Lineman
Linemen install and maintain the power grid. They routinely work with high voltage electricity for long-distance transmission lines that make up the power grid and distribution lines that supply electricity to homes and businesses. Workers employed by local utilities also work to maintain equipment such as transformers, voltage regulators, and switches. Linemen can fall into two categories within O*NET: Electrical Power-Line Installers/Repairers and Telecommunications Line Installers/Repairers.
Also known as: Lineworker, Electrical Lineman/Lineworker, Power Lineman, Power Lineman Technician, Cable Splicer, Field Service Technician, Installation and Repair Technician
Pay Scale
$98,820 in 2021 in WA
$78,310 in 2021 in U.S
Education
High School Diploma, Apprenticeship
Projected Opportunities
230 through 2030 in WA
11,100 through 2031 in U.S.
Career Path
The career path to becoming a lineman begins with an entry-level position such as ground crew, flagger, electrical helper, or pre-apprentice. Once accepted, and after completing the registered apprenticeship program, you can become a journey-level lineman. With experience you can become a lineman foreman and advance to a lineman supervisor.
Training & Requirements
Training
Prospective linemen must complete a registered apprenticeship program, which consists of a combination of classroom time and on-the-job training where they work under the direction of a journey lineman. This can take 4-5 years to complete, and apprentices can enjoy regular raises as they move through the steps to becoming a journey-level lineman.
Required Skills
- Ability and willingness to work outside in all weather conditions
- Ability to perform general physical activities; such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials
- Strong communication and active listening
- Coordination to work as a team
- Good math skills
Responsibilities
- Adhere to safety practices and standards
- Climb poles or use truck-mounted buckets to access equipment
- Install, maintain, and repair electrical distribution and transmission systems
- Control power supply connections
- Drive trucks and equipment to job site