Table Of Contents
- Powerline Technician Job Duties
- Powerline Technician Job Requirements
- Powerline Technician Skills
- Powerline Technician Work Environment
- Powerline Technician Trends
- How to Become a Powerline Technician
- Advancement Prospects
- Job Description Example
Powerline technicians are responsible for installing and maintaining electrical power lines. They commonly work on high-voltage transmission lines, but may also be called upon to install low-voltage distribution lines or other equipment.
Powerline technicians must have a thorough understanding of electrical theory and practice as well as the tools and techniques used in this field. They often work with heavy equipment and live wires, so they need to be careful and conscientious about their safety at all times.
Powerline Technician Job Duties
Powerline technicians have a wide range of responsibilities, which can include:
- Installing or repairing electrical equipment such as transformers or power lines with the use of hand tools such as hammers and pliers
- Testing electrical components such as transformers, capacitors, and resistors for defects
- Operating construction equipment, such as cranes, bulldozers, and backhoes, to perform tasks such as digging trenches for power lines or laying down cable lines
- Operating cranes or other heavy equipment to lift components into place
- Installing and repairing transmission towers, insulators, and other equipment used in power transmission and distribution systems
- Troubleshooting electrical problems and performing repairs on electrical systems in homes or businesses
- Installing wiring for telephone and cable television systems
- Installing electrical wiring and equipment in homes and businesses, using knowledge of electrical codes and safety procedures
- Installing home security systems, fire alarms, burglar alarms, and other security systems
Powerline Technician Salary & Outlook
The salary of a powerline technician can vary depending on their level of experience, the company they work for, and the location of the job.
- Median Annual Salary:$56,500 ($27.16/hour)
- Top 10% Annual Salary:$85,000 ($40.87/hour)
The employment of powerline technicians is expected to grow slower than average over the next decade.
Employment growth will largely be driven by population growth and the need to update and maintain power grids. However, automation may limit the number of new jobs over the next decade. Powerline technicians will be needed to install and maintain smart grids, which use digital technology to monitor and control electricity flow.
Related: Powerline Technician Interview Questions and Answers
Powerline Technician Job Requirements
There are a number of qualifications required to obtain a position as a powerline technician. They include:
Education:Most powerline technicians are required to have a high school diploma or GED certificate. Some employers may prefer candidates who have completed an associate’s degree program in telecommunications or a related field.
Training & Experience:Most powerline technicians receive on-the-job training from their supervisors or other experienced technicians. This training helps the technician learn the specific procedures and safety standards for the company.
Certifications & Licenses:Certifications can prove an individual’s qualifications to current and prospective employers. Powerline technicians can earn certifications to gain more practical knowledge of their responsibilities, test their professional skills and advance their careers.
Powerline Technician Skills
Powerline technicians need the following skills in order to be successful:
Electrical knowledge:Powerline technicians should have a basic understanding of electrical systems and how they work. This can help them identify potential issues and make informed decisions when working on electrical equipment. They should also have knowledge of electrical safety standards and regulations to ensure they are working safely.
Communication skills:Communication skills are necessary for powerline technicians to have, as they often work in teams and need to be able to clearly convey information to their coworkers. They also often need to communicate with customers over the phone or in person, so they need to be able to explain technical information in an understandable way.
Problem-solving skills:Powerline technicians use their problem-solving skills to identify and resolve issues with electrical systems. They may troubleshoot electrical problems, identify the source of the issue and suggest solutions to repair or replace faulty equipment. They also use their problem-solving skills to identify and repair electrical hazards in homes and businesses.
Physical stamina:Staying physically fit is important for powerline technicians because it allows them to work for long periods of time on ladders and in high places. Staying physically fit can also help them work safely and complete their tasks efficiently.
Technical skills:Technical skills are the abilities and knowledge that a person has in a specific field. Technical skills are important for powerline technicians because they allow them to perform their job duties and tasks. Technical skills can include knowledge of electrical systems, how to read and interpret electrical diagrams, how to install electrical equipment and how to troubleshoot electrical problems.
Powerline Technician Work Environment
Powerline technicians work outdoors, often in inclement weather, to maintain and repair the electrical power lines that bring electricity to homes and businesses. They work full time, and overtime and shift work are often required to respond to emergencies or to keep the power flowing during bad weather. Powerline technicians must be able to climb tall poles and work at great heights, so they must be in excellent physical condition and have no fear of heights. They also must be able to work safely with high-voltage electricity. Although the work can be dangerous, powerline technicians receive extensive safety training to minimize the risks.
Powerline Technician Trends
Here are three trends influencing how powerline technicians work. Powerline technicians will need to stay up-to-date on these developments to keep their skills relevant and maintain a competitive advantage in the workplace.
More Focus on Customer Experience
The customer experience is becoming increasingly important in the business world, as customers are more likely to switch providers if they are not happy with the service they are receiving.
Powerline technicians can play a key role in ensuring that the customer experience is positive by providing excellent service and support. They can also work to improve the customer experience by listening to feedback and making changes where necessary.
More Use of Technology in the Field
As technology advances, powerline technicians will need to learn how to use it in the field. This includes using software to map out electrical lines and find problems quickly.
By learning how to use technology in the field, powerline technicians can become more efficient and productive. They will also be better prepared for the future, when technology is likely to play an even larger role in the industry.
Greater Demand for Reliability
As the economy continues to grow, businesses are placing greater emphasis on reliability. This means that powerline technicians will need to be able to provide consistent and reliable service to their customers.
To meet this demand, powerline technicians will need to be able to troubleshoot problems quickly and efficiently. They will also need to be familiar with the latest technologies and products in order to provide the best possible service.
How to Become a Powerline Technician
A career as a powerline technician can be both rewarding and lucrative. It’s important to start your career with the right training, so make sure you choose an accredited school that offers the necessary courses. You should also consider taking additional courses in math, physics, and electronics.
Once you have the required training, it’s time to get out there and start working. Start by applying for jobs with local utilities or contractors. Once you have some experience under your belt, you can move on to bigger companies or even work for yourself.
Advancement Prospects
Powerline technicians may advance to become powerline supervisors. Some may also advance to become electrical engineers.
Powerline Technician Job Description Example
At [CompanyX], we provide our customers with safe and reliable power, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We’re looking for a powerline technician to help us maintain this high standard of service. As a powerline technician, you will be responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of electrical power lines and associated equipment. You will work both independently and as part of a team, often in inclement weather conditions. A successful candidate will have experience as a powerline technician or a related field, as well as a valid driver’s license.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Install, maintain, and repair high voltage overhead and underground power lines
- Inspect equipment and structures regularly to identify potential hazards and necessary repairs
- Work with other technicians to install new power lines and make necessary repairs
- Operate a variety of tools and equipment safely and efficiently, including bucket trucks, digger derricks, cranes, and sledgehammers
- Follow all safety protocols when working with high voltage electricity
- Respond to emergency situations quickly and safely to make necessary repairs
- Keep accurate records of all work completed, including time spent on each job and materials used
- Maintain a clean and organized work area
- Assist in training new employees
- Adhere to all company policies and procedures
- Comply with all federal, state, and local regulations
- Perform other duties as assigned
Required Skills and Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Completion of a certified powerline technician program
- Valid driver’s license with clean driving record
- Ability to obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL)
- Ability to pass a background check and drug test
- Physical ability to safely perform the essential functions of the job, including lifting up to 100 pounds, working at heights, and being exposed to inclement weather conditions
Preferred Skills and Qualifications
- Associate’s degree in electrical engineering or related field
- 2+ years of experience as a powerline technician
- Experience working with high-voltage equipment
- Knowledge of OSHA safety standards
- First Aid/CPR certification
FAQs
What are the duties of a line technician? ›
A line service technician works for an airline or airport support company and helps ensure the safety of departing and arriving aircraft. As a line service technician, your job duties include directing planes to and from the gate, checking fuel and water supplies, and handling baggage and trash removal.
How much do powerline technicians make in Canada? ›The average powerline technician salary in Canada is $86,072 per year or $44.14 per hour.
What is a powerline engineer? ›Power line technicians install and repair the cables and wires used in electrical power and distribution systems. They are also responsible for erecting power poles, lights, and setting up heavy-duty transmission.
What are the responsibilities of a first line technician? ›- Escalation procedures, promptly allocating unresolved calls as appropriate. ...
- Providing advice to customers on systems, products and services which are available to them.
- Assisting the line manager in identifying personal training and development needs.
The most common important skills required by employers are Hardware, CDL, Wiring, Electricity, Power Lines, Fiber Optic Cabling and Bucket Truck.
What knowledge do you need to be a lineman? ›Becoming an electrical lineman requires technical instruction plus on-the-job training. A high school diploma or equivalent is the starting point. Most employers require a basic knowledge of algebra and trigonometry. Community colleges, trade schools and technical schools provide technical instruction.
What is the top skill a utility technician must have? ›What are the most important Utility Technician job skills to have on my resume? The most common important skills required by employers are Piping, Valve, Hand Tools, Customer Service, Detail Oriented, Trucking and Managing Crews.
What is the highest paid electrical lineman position? ›- Electrical Lineman. Salary range: $76,000-$126,500 per year. ...
- Utility Lineman. Salary range: $58,000-$92,500 per year. ...
- Power Lineman. Salary range: $61,000-$88,500 per year. ...
- Lineman Apprentice. ...
- Lineman. ...
- Line Clearance Foreman. ...
- Aerial Lineman. ...
- Line Maintenance Technician.
Location: In what states do lineman make the most money? In 2023, lineman in Hawaii will make the most money. Their average salary is $98,440. The state with the lowest average pay for lineman is Mississippi coming in at $28.75 an hour.
What is a lineman best salary? ›The Houston Texans' Laremy Tunsil leads the list, at $25 million per season. The San Francisco 49ers' Trent Williams is second, at $23.01 million per year. The Green Bay Packers' David Bakhtiari is third, at $23 million per season.
What are power line workers called? ›
Line installers and repairers, also known as line workers, install or repair electrical power systems and. telecommunications cables, including fiber optics.
What is the difference between lineman and electrician? ›Linemen and electricians are quite different. Linemen work outside with high voltage transmission lines and systems. Electricians work in commercial and residential settings, mostly indoors, and with lower voltage systems. If you like to work outdoors, becoming a lineman might be a good career choice.
What are the disadvantages of powerline? ›- Powerline adaptors must be plugged into a wall and, usually, don't work when plugged into extension cords, therefore you'll have fewer electrical outlets available for other uses.
- Powerline adaptors are somewhat large and they may take up lots of space at your outlets.
- Installing transmission and distribution lines between power plants and individual buildings or homes.
- Reading and interpreting electrical wiring diagrams.
- Digging trenches or climbing poles to repair or maintain underground and overhead electrical cables.
A typical day for a lineman revolves around installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical lines. The day-to-day work involves scaling poles to repair overhead lines and inspecting lines that need repair or replacement. In some cases, they install underground lines.
What are the best lineman interview questions? ›- How do you typically prioritize your work assignments? ...
- What lineworker skills do you use daily? ...
- Tell us about a situation where you effectively used communication skills while working. ...
- Do you have a specific process for ensuring the safety of your equipment?
A successful resume sample for Linemen should emphasize electricity knowledge, attention to safety, dexterity, the ability to work in difficult conditions, teamwork, time management, and good communication skills. Eligible resumes make display of a diploma from a technical school.
How do I prepare for a lineman interview? ›The best way to prepare for a lineman interview is to have two key sections committed to memory: overview of work experience and examples of qualification. Overview of work experience means you can succinctly summarize how your past experience on your resume (in the line industry or not) translate to this opportunity.
Do linemen need to know math? ›The following are important skills a lineman should have: Ability to perform maintenance and repairs on the equipment. Skills in mathematics including geometry, algebra, and industrial math. Knowledge of basic public safety and security measures.
What are hard skills for technician? ›Some of the most important hard skills a technician can possess include diagnosing issues, performing preventative maintenance, working with hand tools, and compliance with safety procedures. When it comes to soft skills, technicians should have strong customer service and communication skills.
What makes a good technician? ›
Technicians need strong interpersonal skills
Maintenance technicians are in constant contact with customers. As a result, they must remain calm, pleasant and approachable, even when faced with stressed or angry people. Writing skills are also required to provide clear and concise descriptions of the services provided.
The Utility Worker is responsible for keeping the buildings, grounds, equipment and inventory clean, orderly, properly maintained, safe, and secure. Assists skilled maintenance, landscaping and custodial staff as directed in performing semi-skilled or unskilled tasks in the upkeep and repair of facilities.
What is the lowest pay for a lineman? ›Experience Level | Avg. Salary | Hourly Rate |
---|---|---|
Entry Level | $47,500 | $22.84 |
Mid Level | $81,200 | $39.04 |
Senior Level | $99,600 | $47.88 |
But what about a lineman who is done working? Visit any apprenticeship program and they will tell you that “in a time when most companies are cutting back on retirement benefits, the journeyman lineman profession offers outstanding retirement benefits to ensure you and your family of a secure financial future.”
Can lineman make 6 figures? ›The highest salaries for a lineman are in the six figures.
While most positions pay around $80,000 in a year, some lineman can make over $100,000 a year in their job.
Additional benefits. On top of the base salary, a lineman can also expect to receive bonuses as well. According to Payscale, this can range from $197–$10,000!
What trade pays the most money? ›- Construction Managers. ...
- Elevator and Escalator Installers and Repairers. ...
- Radiation Therapists. ...
- Nuclear Medicine Technologists. ...
- Dental Hygienists. ...
- Electrical and Electronics Engineering Technicians. ...
- Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanics and Technicians. ...
- Boilermakers.
A Journeyman Lineman is licensed to engage in electrical work involving the maintenance and operation of equipment associated with the transmission and distribution of electricity from the electricity's original source to a substation for further distribution.
Why are left tackles paid so much? ›When a right handed QB goes into his passing stance his back is to the left side. Therefore he can not see any danger coming his way. The left tackle is paid so much more because he is on an island and is usually going up against the better defensive lineman.
What blue collar jobs pay the most? ›- Construction and building inspector. ...
- Structural iron and steel worker. ...
- Locomotive engineer. ...
- Radio and telecommunications equipment installer. ...
- Gas plant operator. ...
- Electrical line installer and repairer. ...
- Boilermaker. ...
- Powerhouse, substation and relay repairer.
How much do journeyman lineman make in Florida? ›
The average salary for a journeyman lineman in Florida is $103,000 per year.
What are the two types of lineman? ›Buildings and Power Lines
Electrical linemen spend most of their time on the job up in the air working on utility poles and power lines, while wiremen devote their days to installing, maintaining and repairing electrical components in buildings.
Yes, the demand for lineman is expected to climb by 8.5% by the year 2026 according to labor statistics. It is estimated there will be 21,500 lineman job openings in 2023 alone.
Do lineman work on live lines? ›A lineman protected by insulating gloves, along with other insulating equipment, can work in direct contact with live lines.
Is being a lineman harder than electrician? ›Since lineworkers work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions, their work can be much more physically challenging than the work electricians do. Lineworkers may climb telephone poles and telecommunications towers to install, repair or maintain power lines.
Is being a lineman stressful? ›The pros and cons of being a lineman include good pay, and paid apprenticeship working with your hands, but it is also very hard work, both physically and emotionally demanding, and there's also the harsh working conditions with the potential for injury and death.
Is a journeyman the same as a lineman? ›The difference between a journeyman and a lineman is that a journeyman is fully trained in their field, while a lineman is an apprentice. However, this distinction is not used often in everyday conversation about this role. Often these terms are used interchangeably, or even together, to refer to the same position.
What happens if a powerline falls? ›If a powerline falls on your home, the safest option is to remain inside until you can contact your electric company. The electric company will cut the power to your home or street so you can safely exit your home without fear of electrocution.
How far does powerline work? ›Powerline supports distances up to 984 feet, but adapters don't communicate in a straight line. Data must pass up and down walls and through the attic, adding unseen distance.
Does powerline work well? ›In most cases, a powerline adapter can reach close to or the same speeds as an Ethernet connection in optimal conditions, but you may still experience the occasional drop in latency or connection. If you need to rely on crystal clear connection with minimum dropouts, you absolutely must use an Ethernet cable.
What qualities do electrical power line installers and repairers need? ›
- Active listening.
- Attention to detail.
- Thorough knowledge of electrical lines, equipment and systems.
- Critical thinking.
- Problem-solving.
- Mechanical knowledge.
- Knowledge of testing, assessing and other quality control methods.
- Time management.
Important soft skills for electricians include communication, problem-solving, and customer service. These professionals should be able to work individually and as part of a team. Electricians need strong math skills to make measurements and calculate electrical current values.
What are the greatest professional strengths should an electronic technician possess? ›- Self-Discipline. Whether you are hybrid or working from the office, the support tech at your company will be largely unsupervised and in control of their own schedule. ...
- Excellent Problem-Solving Skills. ...
- Attention to Detail. ...
- Great Communication Skills. ...
- Passion for Technology.
In general, powerline technicians: Erect and maintain steel, wood or concrete poles, towers and guy wires. Install, maintain and repair overhead and underground power lines and cables, insulators, conductors, lightning arrestors, switches, transformers, street lighting and associated equipment.
Why are electrical lineman important? ›They are the ones who install power lines and restore electricity in the aftermath of storms. Electrical linemen keep power flowing to the homes and businesses across the country.
What are hard skills for electrical technician? ›- Mathematics, physics, and algebra. Whether it's taking measurements or calculating power and voltages, mathematics is key to nearly everything an electrician does. ...
- Problem-solving skills. ...
- Working with others. ...
- Time management. ...
- Communication skills. ...
- Honesty. ...
- Patience.
Problem-solving skills: creativity, critical thinking, and analytical skills. Customer-service skills: active listening, time management, and prioritization. Interpersonal skills: communication, teamwork, and empathy. Leadership skills: decision making, stress management, and organization.
What is the most important tool for an electrician? ›What is this? The most important tool in any electrician's arsenal is their pliers. Pliers can manipulate, cut, and grip wires, depending on the type. Linesman pliers have a squared-off end that can twist wires together, while the center-cutting blade can trim wires with ease.
What are 5 responsibilities of a electrician? ›- Read blueprints or technical diagrams.
- Install and maintain wiring, control, and lighting systems.
- Inspect electrical components, such as transformers and circuit breakers.
- Identify electrical problems using a variety of testing devices.
- Repair or replace wiring, equipment, or fixtures using handtools and power tools.
Beyond intellectual aptitudes, an aspiring electrician must also possess good hand/eye coordination and skill, plus the ability to improve. Given the nature of wires and wiring, electricians must also absolutely be able to correctly identify the color of a wire.
What is the best type of electrician to be? ›
Master Electrician is the highest level of electrical certification, with requirements varying from state to state. The main standard for most states is around 4,000 hours of electric work as a Journeyman, followed by a licensing exam to display in-depth knowledge of the National Electrical Code.
How do I describe my technician job on a resume? ›Experienced and dedicated technician with over six years of industry experience, assisting engineers and other professionals in improving machinery and processes. Adept at evaluating systems, identifying issues, and offering solutions to problems.
What is the most important skill in tech? ›Some of the most important technology skills to have are computer literacy, database management, website development, digital marketing, project management, and cybersecurity skills.