How Much Does a Lineman Make? A Guide to Salary, Benefits, and Career Growth


If you are looking for a career that combines physical challenge, high-tech skills, and a paycheck that reflects your hard work, you have probably wondered about becoming an electrical lineworker. It is a demanding profession, often involving heights and high-voltage power lines, but it is also one of the most respected and financially rewarding trades in the country.

Many people feel stuck in the traditional "college-to-office" pipeline and worry about student debt and low starting wages. If that sounds like you, the utility industry offers a refreshing alternative. You can "earn while you learn," building a stable future without the burden of massive loans.

In this guide, we will break down exactly how much an electrical power-line installer makes, from the early days of an apprenticeship to the high-earning years of a journeyman.

Understanding the Lineman Salary Structure

The path to a high salary in linework is structured. Unlike many professions where pay is a mystery, utility companies and unions typically have clear tiers based on your level of training and technical expertise.

1. Apprentice Lineman: The Training Phase

When you first start out, you are an apprentice. This is essentially a four-year "degree" where you are paid to work. The average starting pay for an apprentice lineman usually sits between $52,000 and $59,000 per year.

While this is the lower end of the spectrum, remember that you are gaining valuable hours toward your certification. As you progress through different "steps" of your apprenticeship, your hourly rate increases. By the final year of training, many apprentices are already earning close to the national average for all trades.

2. Journeyman Lineman: The Gold Standard

Once you complete your apprenticeship and pass your exams, you become a Journeyman Lineman. This is where the earning potential truly takes off. A journeyman is a fully qualified professional who can work without supervision.

The median annual wage for a journeyman lineman in the United States is approximately $85,000 to $92,000. However, this is just the base salary. With overtime and specialized call-outs, it is very common for journeymen to clear $100,000 to $150,000 annually.

3. Specialized Roles and Management

Beyond the journeyman level, you can move into roles like:

  • Crew Lead or Foreman: Overseeing a team and managing job sites.

  • Substation Technician: Focusing on the high-voltage equipment inside stations.

  • Transmission Specialist: Working on the massive towers that move power across states.

These roles often come with higher base pay and additional responsibilities, pushing the total compensation package even further.

High-Paying States for Electrical Lineworkers

Where you live has a massive impact on your take-home pay. Some states pay more due to the cost of living, while others pay a premium due to the complexity of the terrain or the strength of local labor unions.

StateAverage Annual Salary
Washington$107,000+
California$110,000+
Hawaii$98,000+
Alaska$102,000+
New York$93,000+

Top-tier locations: If you are willing to work in states like California or Washington, your base hourly rate can be significantly higher. For example, some specialized linemen in California cities like Redding or San Jose earn over $60 per hour.

Beyond the Paycheck: Benefits and Perks

One of the biggest reasons people stay in linework for a lifetime isn't just the hourly rate—it's the comprehensive benefits package. Most utility companies and contractors offer:

  • Health and Wellness: Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance for the whole family.

  • Retirement Plans: Many union roles (like those through the IBEW) offer excellent pension plans and 401(k) matching.

  • Overtime and Double Time: During storm restoration or emergencies, linemen often earn double their normal rate, which can lead to massive "storm checks."

  • Per Diem: If you choose to travel for work (a "tramp lineman"), you often receive a daily allowance for lodging and food on top of your high wages.

How to Increase Your Earning Potential

If you want to reach the top 10% of earners in this field—those making $125,000 or more—you should focus on these three factors:

Obtain a CDL

A Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is almost mandatory in this field. It allows you to operate the heavy bucket trucks and digger derricks used on the job. Having your CDL before you apply for an apprenticeship makes you much more attractive to employers.

Embrace "Storm Work"

When the power goes out after a hurricane or ice storm, linemen are the first responders. Traveling to disaster areas to restore electricity is physically exhausting but incredibly lucrative. This is where the "big money" is made.

Certification and Continued Education

Safety is everything. Staying up to date on OSHA certifications and specialized training for transmission or underground residential distribution (URD) will make you an indispensable asset to your crew.

Is a Career in Linework Right for You?

The financial rewards of being an electrical lineworker are clear. You can earn a six-figure income without a four-year college degree, enjoy job security in an "essential" industry, and receive top-tier benefits.

However, it is not for everyone. You must be comfortable working in all weather conditions, from blistering heat to freezing rain, and you must have a deep respect for the hazards of high-voltage electricity. If you enjoy working with your hands, being outdoors, and serving your community, this career offers a level of financial freedom that few other trades can match.

Are you ready to start your journey into the utility industry?


Understanding the Essential Role of Powerline Linemen: Risks, Rewards, and Daily Operations



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