How to Become a Lineman: Training, Salary & Apprenticeships Explained

Trade Career How-To Guides / How to Become a Lineman

Updated December 2025

Quick Answer: How Do You Become a Lineman?

To become a lineman, you typically complete a lineworker training program or enter a utility apprenticeship, build climbing and rigging skills, and progress under strict safety standards for energized power systems.

Most linemen enter through a utility apprenticeship or a line school that prepares you for field entry requirements. The job is safety-driven and physically demanding, with progression based on qualified supervision, hours logged, and mastery of procedures.

  • Fastest path: Lineworker school (often 8–16 weeks) plus groundman experience to become competitive for apprenticeships.
  • Best “earn while you learn” path: Utility apprenticeship (commonly 3–4 years) with scheduled raises, step progression, and extensive safety training.
  • What you’ll learn: Climbing and pole-top rescue, rigging and hoisting, transformer basics, switching/tagging, working clearances, and storm restoration procedures.
  • What you can earn: Pay varies by utility scale, overtime, and storm work. Use the salary-by-state table below to compare estimates.
  • Best next step: Scroll to Lineman Schools & Apprenticeships to find programs and openings by state.

How to Apply for Lineman Training School, What to Expect, and Why It’s a Great Career Choice

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If you’re looking for a high-demand, hands-on career that combines technical skill, physical strength, and a strong sense of purpose, becoming a lineman could be a perfect fit. Linemen (also called lineworkers or powerline technicians) are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing the electrical and telecommunications lines that power homes and businesses. The work is challenging but rewarding, with competitive pay and opportunities for advancement across utilities, construction, and energy industries. This guide explains how to apply to lineman school, what to expect during training, how to pay for it, and why linework is an outstanding long-term career choice.

What Does a Lineman Do?

Lineman work involves building and maintaining the electrical power systems that keep our world connected. Linemen climb poles, work from bucket trucks, and handle high-voltage lines in all kinds of weather. Their work is critical to public safety and modern infrastructure. Typical responsibilities include:

  • Installing Power Lines: Setting utility poles, stringing new electrical or fiber-optic lines, and connecting them to transformers and substations.
  • Maintenance and Repairs: Inspecting and repairing damaged lines, poles, and transformers after storms or equipment failures.
  • Safety and Equipment Handling: Using insulated tools, harnesses, and protective gear to ensure safe operation when working with high voltage.
  • Underground and Overhead Work: Installing and maintaining both underground cables and overhead power lines.
  • System Upgrades: Assisting in modernizing the electrical grid with newer technologies and higher-capacity transmission systems.

Step 1: Research Lineman Schools and Apprenticeship Programs

The best path to becoming a lineman is through a lineman training school or apprenticeship program. These programs provide both classroom education and hands-on field experience. When researching options, consider the following:

  • Accreditation: Look for programs recognized by the Electrical Training ALLIANCE (a partnership between the IBEW and NECA), or accredited by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER). Accreditation ensures quality training and recognized credentials.
  • Program Length: Lineman school typically lasts from 6 months to 1 year, while full apprenticeships last 3 to 4 years and include paid, on-the-job training with classroom instruction.
  • Curriculum: Quality programs cover electrical theory, pole climbing, transformer wiring, rigging, safety procedures, and first aid/CPR certification.
  • Hands-On Training: Look for programs that emphasize practical field experience—climbing poles, setting transformers, and performing simulated repair scenarios.
  • Job Placement Assistance: Many schools and unions have strong connections with utility companies and contractors, helping graduates find immediate employment.

Step 2: Meet the Basic Requirements

Before applying to lineman training or an apprenticeship, you’ll need to meet certain qualifications to ensure you’re ready for the physical and safety demands of the job:

  • Age: You must be at least 18 years old to apply.
  • Education: A high school diploma or GED is required. Courses in math, physics, and shop provide a strong foundation for understanding electrical systems.
  • Physical Fitness: Linemen need good strength, balance, and endurance to climb poles, carry gear, and work outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Driver’s License: A valid driver’s license is required, and a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is often preferred for operating utility trucks and equipment.
  • Drug and Background Check: Applicants must pass drug testing and background screenings for safety and compliance reasons.

Step 3: Apply to a Lineman Training Program

Once you’ve chosen a program that fits your goals, it’s time to apply. The process is typically straightforward and includes the following steps:

  • Application Form: Submit an application online or in person, providing your personal details, education background, and work experience.
  • Proof of Education and ID: Provide copies of your high school diploma or GED and a valid form of photo identification.
  • Physical and Climbing Assessment: Some schools require a physical exam or pole-climbing test to ensure you can handle the job’s physical requirements.
  • Interview or Orientation: Attend an interview or orientation session to discuss the program, expectations, and future job prospects.

Step 4: Complete Lineman Training

Your training will combine classroom instruction with hands-on field work. You’ll learn both the science of electricity and the practical skills required to build and repair power systems safely and efficiently.

Classroom Instruction

In the classroom, you’ll study essential subjects that prepare you for field operations. These often include:

  • Electrical Theory: Understanding voltage, current, resistance, and how electricity flows through power systems.
  • Safety Procedures: Studying OSHA standards, electrical hazard prevention, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Blueprint and System Reading: Learning how to read schematics, line maps, and construction plans for utility systems.
  • Transformers and Circuits: Understanding how transformers, breakers, and electrical circuits function and are connected in real-world systems.

Hands-On Training

Fieldwork is the heart of lineman training, giving you real-world experience under professional supervision. This part of the program will include:

  • Pole Climbing and Rigging: Learning how to safely climb and work from poles using safety harnesses, belts, and spikes.
  • Live-Line Work: Practicing maintenance and repair techniques on energized lines under controlled training conditions.
  • Equipment Operation: Training with bucket trucks, digger derricks, and tensioning equipment used on utility job sites.
  • Emergency Response: Learning how to respond to outages, accidents, and storm damage quickly and safely.

Step 5: Get Certified and Start Working

After completing your training or apprenticeship, you’ll be ready to enter the workforce as a qualified lineworker. Certification and experience are key to advancing in this field.

  • Journeyman Lineman Certification: Completion of an approved apprenticeship program qualifies you as a journeyman lineman, allowing you to work independently on high-voltage systems.
  • CPR and OSHA Certifications: Many employers require CPR, first aid, and OSHA safety certifications to ensure jobsite readiness.
  • Career Opportunities: Linemen can find employment with utility companies, electrical contractors, telecommunications providers, and renewable energy firms. Advancement opportunities include foreman, trainer, or supervisor roles.

How to Pay for Lineman School

Lineman training is a valuable investment in a high-paying career. There are several options available to help fund your education or apprenticeship:

  • Apprenticeship Wages: Most lineman apprenticeships are paid, allowing you to earn while gaining skills and experience.
  • Financial Aid: Many lineman schools qualify for federal student aid. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to see if you’re eligible for grants or loans.
  • Employer Sponsorship: Some utility companies and contractors cover tuition costs for students who commit to working for them after graduation.
  • Scholarships: Scholarships for aspiring lineworkers are available through organizations like the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and industry associations.
  • Veterans Benefits: Military veterans can often use GI Bill benefits to cover lineman school or apprenticeship expenses.

Lineman Salaries by State

Lineman pay can vary a lot depending on where you live. Use this state-by-state breakdown to compare average hourly wage, weekly pay, monthly income, and annual salary for linemans across the United States.

Salary estimates are based on aggregated data from publicly available wage sources, including state-level labor datasets, employer-reported estimates, and trade industry compensation data. Primary sources include the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), State Labor Departments, and union wage scales and collective bargaining agreements (where available). Data reflects the most recently available wage releases at the time of publication.

How these Lineman salary estimates are calculated: Hourly wage figures are based on the most recent U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics for roofers, supplemented with state labor department wage data and published union wage scales where available. Weekly pay assumes a standard 40-hour work week. Annual salary estimates are calculated using 2,080 work hours per year, and monthly pay is derived by dividing the annual estimate by 12. These figures represent typical earnings and may vary based on experience level, system specialization (residential vs commercial roofing), overtime, seasonality, and regional demand.

Top 10 Highest Paying States for Linemans (Hourly)

Showing the top 10 states by average hourly wage.

Complete Lineman Salary Table by State

State Hourly Wage Weekly Pay Monthly Pay Annual Salary
Washington $48.40 $1,936 $8,390 $100,681
New York $46.77 $1,871 $8,107 $97,284
Massachusetts $46.69 $1,868 $8,093 $97,116
Alaska $46.05 $1,842 $7,982 $95,782
Vermont $45.47 $1,819 $7,882 $94,578
North Dakota $45.25 $1,810 $7,844 $94,124
Oregon $45.22 $1,809 $7,838 $94,054
Colorado $44.97 $1,799 $7,796 $93,547
Hawaii $44.44 $1,778 $7,704 $92,442
Nevada $43.57 $1,743 $7,552 $90,627
New Jersey $43.44 $1,738 $7,530 $90,357
Wisconsin $43.19 $1,728 $7,487 $89,840
Pennsylvania $42.90 $1,716 $7,436 $89,228
Delaware $42.83 $1,713 $7,424 $89,093
South Dakota $42.80 $1,712 $7,418 $89,017
Virginia $42.43 $1,697 $7,355 $88,263
California $42.24 $1,689 $7,322 $87,866
Minnesota $41.93 $1,677 $7,267 $87,207
Rhode Island $41.92 $1,677 $7,266 $87,199
New Hampshire $41.63 $1,665 $7,217 $86,600
Maryland $41.55 $1,662 $7,202 $86,427
New Mexico $41.49 $1,659 $7,192 $86,298
Illinois $41.49 $1,659 $7,191 $86,294
Maine $41.45 $1,658 $7,185 $86,222
Wyoming $41.16 $1,646 $7,134 $85,608
Nebraska $40.83 $1,633 $7,077 $84,925
Indiana $40.75 $1,630 $7,063 $84,759
Connecticut $40.74 $1,630 $7,061 $84,735
Ohio $40.71 $1,629 $7,057 $84,683
Mississippi $40.56 $1,622 $7,030 $84,364
Idaho $40.30 $1,612 $6,985 $83,821
Iowa $40.23 $1,609 $6,973 $83,678
Missouri $40.18 $1,607 $6,964 $83,567
Arizona $39.92 $1,597 $6,919 $83,029
Texas $39.91 $1,596 $6,917 $83,009
South Carolina $39.75 $1,590 $6,890 $82,683
Oklahoma $39.56 $1,582 $6,856 $82,277
Montana $39.32 $1,573 $6,816 $81,795
Utah $39.01 $1,560 $6,762 $81,138
North Carolina $38.94 $1,558 $6,750 $81,000
Tennessee $38.89 $1,556 $6,741 $80,895
Alabama $38.84 $1,554 $6,732 $80,787
Kansas $38.23 $1,529 $6,626 $79,509
Michigan $37.37 $1,495 $6,477 $77,729
Kentucky $37.24 $1,490 $6,455 $77,459
Louisiana $36.67 $1,467 $6,357 $76,281
Georgia $36.22 $1,449 $6,278 $75,336
Arkansas $35.48 $1,419 $6,150 $73,799
West Virginia $33.25 $1,330 $5,764 $69,162
Florida $32.12 $1,285 $5,567 $66,799

Union vs Non-Union Lineman Apprenticeships

Linework is one of the most structured skilled trades: progression is typically apprenticeship-based, safety is non-negotiable, and training is governed by strict procedures. Union apprenticeships are very common in many utility and contractor environments, while non-union linework exists through certain utilities/contractors depending on region. The practical difference is often who controls dispatch, progression rules, and job bidding.

Key Differences at a Glance

Category Union Apprenticeship Non-Union Apprenticeship
Training Structure Highly standardized; step progression and safety procedures Can be very structured as well; varies by utility/contractor
Work Type Transmission/distribution, storm restoration, contractor crews Utility-specific or contractor-specific; varies by region
Progression Defined steps (hours, competencies, evaluations) Defined by employer program; may be faster or slower depending on system
Job Bidding Often seniority-based rules for assignments Company policy-based; may be more flexible or less predictable
Benefits Often strong and standardized Varies by employer; many utilities have strong packages
Mobility Can be strong through contractor systems and travel/storm work Mobility depends on employer and your record; strong linemen are always in demand
Upfront Cost Line school optional; many start as groundman then apprentice Similar; line school may help competitiveness

Union Lineman Apprenticeships

Union line apprenticeships are typically the most standardized: climbing, rigging, switching/tagging, pole-top rescue, and strict approach-distance discipline. You’ll progress by competencies and hours logged, and the culture is heavily safety-driven. If you want a clear path with defined steps and strong job protections, this is often the default route in many regions.

  • Very structured progression with defined competencies
  • Strong safety culture and standardized procedures
  • Clear wage steps and often strong benefits
  • Good access to storm work and large contractor projects (where available)

Non-Union Lineman Apprenticeships

Non-union linework apprenticeships can be excellent, especially in utility environments with robust internal training. The core expectations remain the same: safety, procedure compliance, and performance under supervision. The differences usually come down to bidding rules, dispatch systems, and how the employer structures progression.

  • Often strong internal training in utility settings
  • Potentially more flexibility in assignments depending on employer
  • Advancement depends on evaluations, competence, and safety record
  • Quality varies—prioritize employers with strict safety training and clear progression

Which Path Is Better?

Linework is about safety and competence more than labels. Union pathways often provide the most standardized progression rules and protections. Non-union pathways can be just as strong when the utility/contractor has a serious training program. The best choice is the program with clear step requirements, rigorous safety culture, and consistent supervised experience.

Lineman Schools, Programs & Apprenticeships.

Browse Lineman programs listed on TradeSchoolDudes.com. Filter by state or search by program name to find training that matches your goals.

Program State Overview
Lineworker Apprentice 3 – TIC (The Industrial Company) Oklahoma TIC – The Industrial Company is hiring a Lineworker Apprentice 3 to support electrical distribution and transmission work at the PITTS site in Ardmore, Oklahoma. This semi-skilled apprenticeship role is designed for individuals who already
Western Colorado Community College Colorado Colorado Mesa University’s Technical Programs (CMU Tech) in Grand Junction provide hands-on career and technical education through a selection of associate degree and certificate pathways designed to meet workforce needs in the Grand Junction and
Wytheville Community College Virginia Wytheville Community College (WCC) is a public community college in Wytheville, Virginia, serving the New River, Blue Ridge, and Cumberland Plateau regions as part of the Virginia Community College System. The college offers a variety
Western Wyoming Community College Powerline Technology Program Wyoming Western Wyoming Community College (WWCC), located in Rock Springs, Wyoming, offers a Powerline Technology program designed to prepare students for entry-level work related to the construction, maintenance, and repair of overhead and underground electrical distribution
Pulaski Technical College – Electrical Lineworker Technology Arkansas The H-Volt Academy at Pulaski Technical College (Pulaski Tech) is a nationally recognized workforce development initiative focused on training the next generation of electrical lineworkers. Developed in partnership with the utility industry, community stakeholders, and
Yavapai College – Lineman Training Program Arizona Yavapai College offers a highly regarded Lineworker Training Program through its Workforce Development and Community Education division, specifically designed to prepare students for careers in the electrical utility and powerline construction industries. This program blends
Alaska Electrical Lineman Apprenticeship Program Alaska The Alaska Electrical Lineman Apprenticeship Program is a federally registered apprenticeship administered by the Alaska Joint Electrical Apprenticeship and Training Trust (AJEATT), a partnership between the Alaska Chapter of the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA)
Wallace Community College – Lineman Training Program Alabama Wallace Community College offers a Line Worker Training Program tailored to prepare students for careers in the electrical utility and powerline construction industries. This workforce development training provides foundational education and hands-on experience in the
Lawson State Community College – Line Worker Program Alabama Lawson State Community College offers a Line Worker Training Program designed to prepare students for careers in the electrical utility and powerline construction industries. This non-credit, workforce development training program equips participants with foundational and
Calhoun Community College – Lineman Training Program Alabama Calhoun Community College offers a comprehensive Lineman Training Program designed to prepare students for careers in the electrical utility and powerline construction industries. This training is ideal for individuals seeking entry-level roles as groundhands, utility
Bishop State Community College – Lineman Training Program Alabama Bishop State Community College offers a focused Lineman Training Program through its Workforce Development and continuing education division, preparing students for careers in the electrical distribution and powerline industry. This program is designed to equip
Trenholm State Line Worker Training Alabama Trenholm State Community College offers a focused Line Worker Training program through its Workforce Development Division for individuals seeking an entry point into the electrical linework and utility construction industries. This non-credit, pre-apprenticeship training is
American Career Training – Electrical Lineworker Program (California) California American Career Training (ACT) is a nationally accredited training provider with long-standing experience supporting the energy and transportation industries. Its Electrical Lineworker Program is an intensive 15-week pre-apprenticeship designed to prepare students for immediate entry
North American Lineman Training Center (NALTC) – McEwen Tennessee The North American Lineman Training Center (NALTC) is a highly respected, industry-focused lineman training school designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in the electrical power industry. NALTC’s mission is centered on safety, realism, and
Mountain States Line Constructors Apprenticeship Colorado The Mountain States Line Constructors Apprenticeship (MSLCA) Colorado Training Center is a nationally recognized, registered apprenticeship program that prepares individuals for careers as electrical power line technicians (linemen). Sponsored by industry partners and supported by
American Line Builders Training Program (ALBAT) Ohio The American Line Builders Training Program (ALBAT) is one of the most respected and established registered electrical lineworker apprenticeship programs in the United States. Sponsored by the National Association of Line Contractors (NALC), ALBAT is
High Voltage Apprentice Lineman – Hunt Electric (Salt Lake City) Utah The High Voltage Apprentice Lineman position at Hunt Electric is designed for individuals already enrolled in or attending a certified Journeyman Lineman Apprenticeship Program, with three to four years of field experience. This role supports
Pre-Apprentice Lineman–Splicer – Evergy (Kansas City) Missouri The Pre-Apprentice Lineman–Splicer position with Evergy serves as the formal entry point into one of the most essential and technically demanding trades within the electric utility industry. This structured pre-apprenticeship is designed to prepare motivated
Kentucky Community & Technical College System Kentucky The Kentucky Community & Technical College System (KCTCS) is the largest provider of workforce and technical education in the state, offering more than 100 career-focused programs across its network of 16 colleges and more than
State Technical College of Missouri Missouri State Technical College of Missouri, commonly known as State Tech, is one of the most respected career and technical institutions in the Midwest. Located in Linn, Missouri, the college specializes exclusively in hands-on, workforce-focused training
Utilities Service, LLC Lineman Apprentice – Delhi Louisiana This Lineman Apprentice position with Utilities Service, LLC provides hands-on training in overhead distribution and transmission systems. Apprentices learn how to install, repair, and maintain poles, cables, and electrical components while working under established safety
Prime Line Academy – Lineman Training Program (Southern Idaho) Idaho Prime Line Academy offers an intensive lineman training program designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to launch a career in the electrical industry. With over 120 years of combined outdoor line
IBEW Local 291 – Idaho Idaho IBEW Local 291 offers multiple apprenticeship programs through partnerships with training centers such as the SW Idaho Electrical JATC and Mountain States Line Constructors. These programs combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction, preparing apprentices for
IBEW – Wireman, Lineman, and Telecommunications Alaska Inside Wireman Apprenticeship (5-Year Program) Outside Lineman Apprenticeship (4-Year Program) Telecommunications Technician Apprenticeship (3–4-Year Program) Pathways to Journeyman Electrician, Lineman, or Communications Specialist Certification The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) offers nationally recognized apprenticeship
Electrical Technology Program – Montana Tech Montana The Pre-Apprentice Line Program at Highlands College of Montana Tech was developed in response to a nationwide shortage of skilled line workers—a demand that continues today. This one-semester certificate program prepares students for groundman and

Why You Should Get Into Linework and the Electrical Power Trade

Linework is one of the most critical and demanding skilled trades in the country. Lineworkers build, maintain, and repair the electrical infrastructure that powers homes, hospitals, businesses, and entire communities. If you enjoy working outdoors, handling complex equipment, and taking on physically challenging work that directly impacts public safety and reliability, the electrical power trade offers a stable and highly respected career path.

Low Education Costs and Paid Training

Many lineworkers enter the trade without taking on significant student debt. Training often begins with a pre-apprenticeship or line school, followed by a paid apprenticeship with a utility company or contractor. Apprentices earn wages while gaining hands-on experience in real-world conditions, making linework a direct path into a high-paying trade without years of expensive schooling.

Essential Work That Keeps the Grid Running

Every modern system depends on reliable electricity. Lineworkers are responsible for constructing new power lines, maintaining transmission and distribution systems, and responding to outages caused by storms, accidents, or aging infrastructure. Their work keeps critical services operating and ensures communities have consistent access to power, making linework an essential role in modern infrastructure.

Strong Pay and Comprehensive Benefits

Linework is among the highest-paying skilled trades due to the technical skill, physical demands, and safety responsibilities involved. Apprentices typically earn strong starting wages, while experienced journeyman linemen often earn annual incomes in the $80,000 to $100,000 range or more, depending on overtime, travel, and region. Many positions also include benefits such as retirement plans, healthcare coverage, paid travel, and union representation.

Earn While You Learn Through Apprenticeships

Lineworker apprenticeships typically last several years and combine classroom instruction with on-the-job training. Apprentices learn pole climbing, bucket truck operation, grounding procedures, high-voltage safety, and electrical theory under the supervision of experienced linemen. This structured training ensures workers develop the skills needed to perform complex and hazardous tasks safely.

Outdoor Work and Team-Based Environments

Linework is not an office-based job. Linemen work outdoors in all types of weather and environments, from rural areas to dense urban settings. The trade relies heavily on teamwork, communication, and trust, as linemen often work in close coordination with crew members to complete tasks safely and efficiently. Many workers cite the camaraderie among crews as one of the most rewarding aspects of the job.

Long-Term Job Security

Electrical infrastructure requires constant maintenance, upgrades, and expansion. Aging power grids, renewable energy integration, and increasing demand for electricity all contribute to sustained need for trained lineworkers. As many experienced linemen approach retirement age, utilities and contractors across the country continue to seek new workers to fill critical roles.

Travel and Advancement Opportunities

Lineworkers often have opportunities to travel for major projects or storm restoration efforts following hurricanes, wildfires, or severe weather events. With experience, linemen may advance into roles such as foreman, safety coordinator, trainer, or supervisor. Some also transition into contracting or consulting roles within the power industry.

Modern Tools and Evolving Technology

Today’s lineworkers use advanced equipment such as insulated tools, bucket trucks, voltage detection systems, and drones for inspection and maintenance. As smart grid technology, renewable energy projects, and grid automation continue to expand, linemen play a key role in supporting new energy systems and infrastructure upgrades.

A Demanding Trade Built on Skill and Safety

Linework requires physical strength, focus, and a strict commitment to safety. Working at height and around high-voltage electricity carries inherent risk, which is why training, procedures, and teamwork are critical. Linemen take pride in performing challenging work responsibly and maintaining safety standards that protect both workers and the public.

A Respected and Reliable Career

Lineworkers are widely respected for the work they do, especially during emergency restoration efforts when communities rely on them to restore power quickly and safely. The combination of skill, responsibility, and public impact makes linework one of the most respected trades in the electrical industry.

A Career Built for the Future

As power systems modernize and renewable energy continues to grow, skilled lineworkers will remain essential to maintaining and expanding electrical infrastructure. The trade offers strong pay, long-term stability, and meaningful work for those willing to meet its demands. For individuals seeking a challenging and dependable career in the skilled trades, linework offers a path that is built to last.