Energy and utilities
How to become a power lineworker
Build and repair the power lines, often after storms.
About $86,000 typical pay. Training time: Lineworker school (about 10–15 weeks), then a 3–4 year paid apprenticeship. How to start: Paid apprenticeship.
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What does a power lineworker do?
Lineworkers build and repair the power lines that carry electricity to homes and businesses, often working at heights and responding after storms. Training usually starts with a lineworker school, followed by a paid apprenticeship. It's one of the best-paying careers that doesn't require a degree.
What the work is like
- Physical: Very physical. Expect lifting, standing, and moving all day.
- Heights: Regular work at heights, on ladders, or in tight spaces.
- Blood and medical: No medical tasks.
- Schedule: Nights, weekends, long shifts, or rotations are common.
- Travel: Expect to travel, sometimes for days or weeks at a time.
- Math: Some everyday math.
Steps to become a power lineworker
Training: Lineworker school (about 10–15 weeks), then a 3–4 year paid apprenticeship. You can earn while you learn.
- Get your CDL permit. Most line jobs require a commercial license.
- Look up lineworker programs at community colleges and ask about scholarships.
- Apply to your local electric co-op or utility for groundman jobs.
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Where power lineworker jobs are in demand
Texas
- Central Texas: One of the fastest-growing areas in the country, with nonstop construction, new chip plants in Taylor and Austin, and Fort Cavazos nearby.
- West Texas and the Permian Basin: Oil and gas drive the economy, along with the trucks, power lines, and shops that support it.
- Panhandle: Wind farms, agriculture, and meat processing all need technicians, drivers, and mechanics.
- East Texas: Utilities, timber, manufacturing, and rural healthcare are hiring.
California
- Northern California: Wildfire recovery, utility work, and rural healthcare are in high demand.
Wyoming
- Wyoming: Oil, gas, mining, and wind energy, plus the power lines, trucks, and heavy equipment that keep them running.
Regional demand is a general guide. Check with your local workforce office for current openings.
How to pay for power lineworker training
Many people start this career through a paid apprenticeship or an employer who trains you, so training can cost little or nothing.
Fill out the FAFSA to see if you qualify for a Pell grant. Since 2026, Workforce Pell can also cover some short programs of 8 to 15 weeks. High school CTE and dual credit classes are often free.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a power lineworker make?
Typical pay is about $86,000, based on approximate national medians. Starting pay is usually lower, and pay varies by area and experience.
How long does it take to become a power lineworker?
Lineworker school (about 10–15 weeks), then a 3–4 year paid apprenticeship.
Can you get paid while training?
Yes. Many people in this career are paid while they train, through a paid apprenticeship, an employer who covers training, or on-the-job learning.
Do you need a college degree?
No. This career doesn't require a four-year degree.
Similar careers to explore
- Wind turbine technician: About $62,000. 6 month to 2 year certificate
- Solar installer: About $51,000. Weeks to months. Many companies train you on the job
- Oilfield hand: About $50,000 and up with overtime. Hired on with a few days of safety training
- Process technician (plant operator): About $70,000. 2-year process technology degree at a community college
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