lineworkers

Lineworkers are skilled tradespeople who install, maintain, and repair electrical power lines and related equipment. They work on overhead transmission and distribution networks as well as underground cables, transformers, substations, poles, and towers. Their work is essential for delivering electricity to homes, businesses, and public services, and they may also service telecom and other utility lines.

Linework includes constructing new lines, replacing damaged components, restoring service after outages, performing inspections, and performing routine maintenance. Crews operate in various environments and weather conditions, often at significant heights and in potentially hazardous conditions. They may work in rural, urban, and industrial settings, sometimes as part of emergency response during storms or other outages.

Training and qualifications typically involve an apprenticeship or technical training in electrical theory, safety practices, and hands-on field experience. Journeyman status is common, with ongoing safety and technical updates throughout a lineworker’s career. Certification or licensing requirements vary by region and employer, and many lineworkers are represented by trade unions.

Safety is a central concern for lineworkers due to high-voltage systems and fall hazards. Protective equipment such as hard hats, flame-resistant clothing, gloves, and fall protection is standard, and work follows strict safety protocols, lockout/tagout procedures, and electrical safety standards (such as NFPA 70E and jurisdictional regulations). Specialized tools and equipment, including bucket trucks, cranes, live-line tools, and climbing gear, support their work.

The occupation is characterized by strong demand in many regions, ongoing infrastructure upgrades, and collaboration across utilities, contractors, and regulatory bodies.