Background
Since the development of the use of electricity in the late 1800's, power lines have been needed to transport the electricity from where it is generated to where it is utilized. There have always been skilled workers needed to consruct, operate, adn maintain these lines, hence the terms "Lineworkers" and "Linework."
What's the work like?
By nature, linework offers many rewards whether you are employed with a contractor or a utility. The work is extremely challenging and interesting as the type of projects, conditions, and work locations change frequently. Camaraderie among the Lineworkers is very common in this environment.
The work is performed in an outdoor environment subjected to all types of weather and work can by very physical at times. The work is done both on overhead and underground lines with the overhead work typically done at heights above the ground ranging from 25 feet to 200 feet. Lineworkers can be needed at any hour to restore power, which can require long hours of overtime.
Linework has a reputation of being hazardous; however, over the years improved equipment and materials have improved safety considerably. For employees who develop good safety habits, the hazard exposure is similar to other trades.
What about pay, benefits, and job security?
The pay for lineworkers is excellent given the amount of formal educations required. Currently, graduates start at $14 to $20 per hour and within three to four years will work up to lineman wages ($23.00 to $36.00 per hour). The benefits can include medical/dental insurance, pension plans, group life insurance, and 401K programs. There is a growing trend with many companies towards bonus pay for teams of employees achieving certain goals.
What types of career opportunities are there?
Linework offers considerable opportunities for a rewarding career either in the contracting area or the utility area. Advancement can be relatively quick as qualified, trained workers with demonstrated skills are always in demand. There is considerable potential to advance into supervision and management in almost every company. Although traditionally lineworkers have typically been men, there is a trend toward more women entering the trade and having successful careers.
Initially, if you are willing to travel and relocate, your opportunities increase tremendously. If you are focused on staying in one location or with one company you significantly limit your chances of employment. Once an employee has developed their skills and abilities and gained experience then the opportunity to "settle down" in one location is more easily achieved. Our most successful graduates learn to be more concerned with where they end up rather than where they begin.
How do future opportunities look?
Many of the existing lines in the world are in need of replacement and maintenance. Population growth and the accompanying infrastructure will require additional lines and the reinforcement of existing lines. Both these elements generate the need for highly trained, qualified workers. In addition, companies are beginning to experience the retiring of the "baby boomer" generation and are in need of qualified personnel. In summary, the outlook for highly skilled lineworkers in the future is excellent.
Recent studies have indicated that up to 40% of linewokers will retire in the next 5 years. These studies confirm that approximately 11,300 jobs annually will be needed in this trade nationwide. The Bureau of Labor Statistics provides additional wage information.
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