Job Description Electrical lineworkers and repairers construct and maintain electric transmission and distribution lines and facilities that send electricity to residential, commercial, industrial and agricultural customers. Apprentices work for various contractors and utility companies on all types of power line construction, both underground and overhead.
Working Conditions
The work environment is outdoors in all types of weather. Workers must be agile and capable of performing strenuous work under adverse conditions and at great heights. Workers are required to climb and work on poles or structures in the vicinity of high-voltage conductors and on high-voltage electrical transmission lines, which can be very hazardous. Extended hours may be required during inclement weather to restore damaged electric power lines.
Wages
Beginning apprentices start at about 50 percent of the journey-level wage. Upon successful completion of required class work and on-the-job hours, wages increase usually every six months until the journey-level rate is achieved.
Length of Apprenticeship
The apprenticeship program lasts about three years. Apprentices must complete a minimum of 144 related classroom hours per year and 6,000 to 7,000 hours of on-the-job training.
Minimum Qualifications
Apprenticeship applicants must be at least 18 years of age. In addition, they must provide proof of high school graduation or general education development (GED) equivalent. Local apprenticeship committees may require additional qualifications.
These programs are typically open to employees of training agents registered with the local apprenticeship committees.
Apprenticeship Committees
Click on the ID number to see the journey wages rate.
