What does a Lineman do?
A lineman is responsible for the installation, repair and maintenance of overhead and underground electrical power lines and auxiliary equipment. This includes work from power plants to the meters of customers homes. Additionally, a lineman digs trenches for the installation of underground lines, install meters, climb poles to repair overhead lines and inspect power lines for possible repair or replacement. A Lineman usually works for utility companies, energy companies or telecommunications companies.
A high school diploma as well as the successful completion of a four-year apprenticeship is required to become a lineman. Successful lineman possess excellent problem-solving, troubleshooting and organizational, and analytical skills.
- Operate and maintains the electric SCADA system
- Maintain knowledge of and implement safety procedures at all times
- Safely and accurately prepares work sites with warning signs and secures areas
- Operate diggers, bucket trucks, hand tools near and around electrical distribution lines
- Locate underground electric cable faults for repair
- Read and interpret wiring diagrams
- Install primary and secondary overhead and underground electrical systems
- Conduct work outdoors in various types of weather
- Four-year electrical lineman apprenticeship
- CPR and First aid certification
- Hilti gun, and forklift certification
- Superior written and verbal communication skills
- Commercial driver's license (CDL) with tanker and airbrake certification
- Excellent analytical and organizational skills
- Able to work under mildly safe and uncomfortable conditions where exposure to environmental factors such as temperature variations, odors, and toxic agents
- Able to pull up loads of up to 100 pounds
- Able to exert heavy physical effort in moderate to heavy work
Lineman Salaries
Average Base Pay
Lineman Career Path
Learn how to become a Lineman, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Years of Experience Distribution
Lineman Insights
Expanse Energy Solutions“I have had many managers in my career but Nick in Carlsbad is the best I’ve ever experienced.”
“Games are fairly fun and good pay as well.”
ADB Companies“Company turn over rate is an embarrassment and have to deal with threats to your career.”
Pike Corporation“Good pay good job recommend”
DONE by NONE“Great not bad good good good”
LINETECH“Money was good work was good”
David Stanley Consultants, LLC & StanHurst“Good good good good good”
“Good good good good good”
Frequently asked questions about the role and responsibilities of a Lineman
When working as a Lineman, the most common skills you will need to perform your job and for career success are CDL, Operational Excellence, Investigating, English and Customer Focus.
- Installer
- Welder
- Electrician
- Millwright
The most common qualifications to become a Lineman is a minimum of a Associate's Degree and an average of 0 - 1 of experience not including years spent in education and/or training.