Becoming an Electrical Lineman: Steps to Start Your Career

In every community around the world, dedicated men and women work as linemen to ensure that electricity continues to flow, keeping our world running smoothly even after devastating storms or wildfires.

The role of an electrical lineman stands out as one of top importance. These skilled professionals, often seen working high above ground on utility poles, in bucket trucks, or using helicopters, are essential to ensuring that our homes, businesses, and communities receive a reliable electricity supply. It's a fascinating world that can be easily overlooked or underappreciated, but their work significantly impacts our daily lives. But what exactly does an electrical lineman do, and why is their job so important?

The Role of an Electrical Lineman

An electrical lineman, also known as a lineworker or lineman, is a tradesperson who installs, maintains, and repairs high-voltage power lines and equipment that distribute electricity to consumers. Their work involves handling both overhead and underground electrical systems and requires a combination of technical skills, physical endurance, and an understanding of safety protocols.

Key Responsibilities

Installation and Maintenance: Linemen are responsible for installing new power lines and poles, ensuring that the electrical grid is continually expanding and adapting to meet growing demands. They also maintain existing infrastructure, performing routine inspections and repairs to prevent outages and ensure safe operation.

Emergency Repairs: One of the most critical aspects of their job is responding to power outages and emergencies. Whether it's a storm, accident, or equipment failure, linemen are often the first responders, working in challenging conditions to restore power quickly and safely.

Testing and Troubleshooting: Linemen use specialized equipment to test electrical systems, identify faults, and troubleshoot issues. This aspect of their work requires a deep understanding of electrical theory and the ability to diagnose complex problems efficiently.

Safety Compliance: Working with high-voltage electricity is inherently dangerous, so linemen must adhere to strict safety standards and protocols. This includes using personal protective equipment (PPE) such as our FR workwear, following industry regulations, and continuously updating their knowledge through training and certifications.

3 First Steps to Start Your Career in Linework

Step 1: Education and Training

Although a high school diploma or equivalent is usually the minimum requirement, individuals who want to become electrical linemen often choose to join specialized training programs to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge for the job. 

This training can also help you get on an apprenticeship program. These programs, which are available at technical schools, community colleges, or through apprenticeship programs, offer hands-on training.

Some topics you'll learn:

1. electrical theory
2. climbing techniques
3. safety procedures
4. equipment operation

Step 2: Apprenticeship

Individuals aiming to become electrical linemen choose to enter apprenticeship programs, which combine classroom instruction with on-the-job training under the guidance of experienced linemen. 

These apprenticeships, typically lasting three to four years, provide invaluable real-world experience and allow apprentices to earn a salary while learning the ropes of the trade.

Step 3: Certification and Licensing

After completing apprenticeship training, aspiring electrical linemen may need to obtain certification or licenses. Employers often require certifications such as Certified Journeyman Lineman (CJL) or Certified Apprentice Lineman (CAL) to demonstrate competency in the field.

In addition, some states mandate that linemen obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) to operate heavy vehicles and equipment, such as bucket trucks.

3 Common Lineman Roles

There are multiple levels of expertise within the field of electrical linework, each representing different skills, experience, and responsibilities.

Apprentice Lineman: As the entry-level position, apprentice linemen undergo training and gain hands-on experience under the supervision of journeyman linemen.

Journeyman Lineman: Linemen achieve journeyman status after completing their apprenticeship and obtaining certification. Journeyman linemen are fully qualified to perform various tasks independently, from installing and repairing power lines to troubleshooting electrical issues.

Lineman Foreman: If you have leadership qualities and supervisory skills, the lineman foreman role might be for you. Often serving as mentors and leaders, linemen foremen oversee crews, coordinate work assignments, and ensure the safety and efficiency of their teams.

To learn more about the roles within the electrical industry, view the 5 Lineworker Career Path Opportunities in the Electrical Industry.

Tips from a Journeyman Lineman

Brian Wheeler, a Journeyman Lineman and 4x International Lineman's Rodeo Champ, shares his unique journey into linework and helpful advice during your lineman training program. 

Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and YouTube.

Becoming an electrical lineman is more than just choosing a career; it's a calling—a commitment to service, safety, and the well-being of communities. Whether you're just starting out as an apprentice or climbing the ranks as a journeyman or foreman lineman, the path to success provides numerous opportunities to make a meaningful impact and ensure that the lights stay on for future generations.

About DragonWear

All DragonWear® FR fabrics are inherently flame-resistant, tested in-house and at independent state-of-the-art laboratories, and pass relevant industry certifications. We use advanced proprietary fabric technology to support our design philosophy that comfort and protection are inclusive elements. Our products offer the ultimate breathable, moisture-wicking performance without sacrificing water-resistant durability and wind-repellant warmth. The permanent fire-resistant protection won't melt, drip, or wear off and cannot be washed away. Designing and delivering a quality garment each and every time is essential to the vitality of our products and our overarching mission to support and protect a customer base that operates in life-risking environments every day.