How to Become an Electrical Lineman

Becoming an electrical lineman is a great career choice for those who enjoy working outdoors, have a strong sense of teamwork and want to play a critical role in keeping our communities powered. Linemen install, repair and maintain power lines that deliver electricity to homes, businesses and community organizations. Best of all, you don’t need a four-year degree to enter this field — trade schools and career college programs provide the specialized training needed to start your career as a lineman.

At the Imagine America Foundation, we recognize electrical line work as one of the top career paths for hands-on professionals. We’ve outlined seven steps to becoming an electrical lineman ... let’s get started!

Step 1: Understand what electrical linemen do

First, let’s get one thing out of the way: No, linemen do not have to be men. More and more women are choosing to become electricians, especially as demand for skilled workers continues to grow.

Before committing to a training program, it’s important to understand exactly what a lineman (or woman) does. Electrical linemen work on power lines that carry electricity from power plants to homes and businesses. They install new lines, repair damaged ones and ensure the electrical grid remains reliable and safe.

That means they often work outdoors in challenging conditions, including extreme weather and high altitudes. Safety is a top priority for linemen, since the job involves working with high-voltage electricity and climbing poles or transmission towers.

Here are some of the main responsibilities of a lineman:

• Installing and maintaining overhead and underground power lines
• Climbing utility poles or using bucket trucks to access electrical equipment
• Identifying and repairing power outages, often during emergencies
• Inspecting and testing electrical systems to ensure they meet safety standards
• Following strict safety protocols to prevent electrical hazards

Step 2: Choose the right training path

While some linemen learn through on-the-job training, the most effective way to enter the field is by completing a lineman training program. These programs provide hands-on training, certification preparation and job placement assistance. Best of all, the Imagine America Foundation works with schools across the country that offer scholarships for electrical programs and lineman training.

Why choose a career college or trade school?

• Fast-track training: Lineman programs typically take six months to two years to complete
• Hands-on learning: Training programs include real-world experience with electrical equipment
• Industry certifications: Schools help students earn certifications that improve job opportunities
• Job placement assistance: Many programs have partnerships with utility companies and contractors to help graduates find jobs

Step 3: Enroll in (and graduate from) an electrical lineman training program

At most career colleges and trade schools, lineman training programs combine classroom instruction with practical, hands-on experience. Here’s what to expect in a typical program:

1. Electrical theory and safety
   • Learn about electrical systems, voltage levels, and power distribution
   • Safety training on working with high-voltage electricity and preventing workplace injuries
2. Hands-on climbing and equipment training
   • Practice climbing utility poles and working in bucket trucks
   • Learn how to use tools such as hot sticks, crimpers, and cable cutters
3. Certification preparation
   • Many training programs align their curriculum with industry-recognized certifications, like:
     • Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), which is required for driving utility trucks
     • OSHA Safety Certifications, which demonstrate knowledge of workplace safety
     • First Aid and CPR Training, which may be required for handling emergencies in the field

Step 4: Consider earning additional industry certifications

While entry-level linemen can start working immediately after completing a training program, earning additional certifications can lead to better job opportunities. Employers often prefer candidates with specialized certifications, which may include:

• Transmission lineman certification: Focused on working with high-voltage transmission lines
• Underground distribution certification: Covers the installation and repair of buried power lines
• Journeyman lineman certification: Requires on-the-job experience and passing a licensing exam

Many career colleges and trade schools help their students prepare for these certifications, making it easier to advance in the field.

Step 5: Find electrical lineman job opportunities

Once you’ve completed your training, it’s time to find your first job as a lineman, also known as an electrical power-line installer or repairer. Many of the schools in the Imagine America network offer job placement assistance to help you connect with employers after you graduate. Here are some other ways you can make finding a job easier:

Tips for getting hired as an electrical lineman:

• Build a strong resume that highlights your training, certifications, and hands-on experience
• Network with industry professionals by attending job fairs and lineman rodeos (skills competitions for linemen)
• Apply for entry-level positions with utility companies, contractors, or telecommunications firms
• Join a trade union to access job opportunities, better wages, and benefits

Step 6: Gain experience and specialize

After getting hired, new linemen typically start as apprentices or entry-level groundmen. As they gain experience, they can specialize in different areas of the trade, including:

• Transmission lineman: Works on high-voltage transmission lines that carry electricity long distances
• Distribution lineman: Focuses on lower-voltage lines that bring power to homes and businesses
• Underground lineman: Installs and maintains power lines buried underground
• Storm recovery specialist: Travels to disaster-affected areas to restore power

Step 7: Continue learning and advancing your career

The electrical lineman trade offers plenty of opportunities for career growth. With experience, linemen can move into advanced roles like:

• Journeyman lineman: A higher-level lineman with more responsibilities and better pay
• Crew leader or foreman: Supervises a team of linemen on job sites
• Lineman instructor: Teaches new students at trade schools or training programs
• Utility manager: Oversees operations for a power company or utility provider

Why becoming a lineman is a great career choice

Electrical linemen are and will continue to be in high demand, with excellent job stability and competitive wages. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for electrical power-line installers and repairers is around $85,420, with higher earnings for those in specialized fields.

With increasing investments in infrastructure and renewable energy, the need for skilled linemen continues to grow. This career offers job security, advancement opportunities, and the satisfaction of knowing you’re helping keep the lights on in your community.

Plus, becoming an electrical lineman is an achievable and rewarding goal. With the right training, certifications and hands-on experience, you can build a successful career in the power industry.

If you’re ready to get started, the Imagine America Foundation has resources to support you as you explore local trade schools and career colleges, enroll in an electrical lineman program and take the first step toward a bright future in electrical power-line installation and repair!