How to Become a Power Lineman

Being a power lineman is sometimes physically demanding.

Power linemen, also known as line installers, line repairers and line workers, are people who install and maintain the network of lines that make up electrical grid systems. To become a power lineman, you have to be strong in body and mind. Lineman are not only required to climb tall poles on a regular basis--sometimes while carrying heavy equipment--they also have to have good reading, writing and math skills. They also have to complete a certain amount of classroom training as well as on-the-job instruction.

Instructions

1. Get educated. Most companies require their power linemen to have a high school diploma or equivalent at a minimum. Some of the things that employers look for in potential hires are a good working knowledge of algebra and trigonometry, plus good reading and writing skills, since power linemen have to write reports and fill out paperwork.

2. Stay or become physically fit. Power line workers have to be able to climb while lifting heavy objects, so you'll need to have to have a good amount of strength, coordination and stamina. Also, you can't be afraid of heights because a good deal of the work takes place above ground. And since some of the work takes place underground, you can't be afraid of working in tight or confined spaces.

3. Enroll in a training school. Many community colleges offer degrees and/or program certificates in electronics, electricity and telecommunications. Many of the two-year degree programs give students broad training in the types of technologies used in the field, such as fiber optics and microwave transmission, while the one-year program emphasizes more hands-on work, usually via apprenticeships in conjunction with local companies.

4. Get a job in the power lineman field. During or soon after your program certificate or degree program training, start asking your instructors about where you might be able to get hired as a lineman. They should be able to give you helpful tips and/or a recommendation. Apply for any entry-level job that you feel you would be a good fit. Entry level positions as power linemen usually include basic work such as tree trimming until you demonstrate a proficiency and good track record. After time, you should be able to move up to more challenging maintenance and repair work.

References

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Line Installers & Repairers

Resources

• U.S. Bureau of Labor: Nature of Linemen Work