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Communication Lineman Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Line Mechanic

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$39.99 - $51.93/hr

Lineman Apprenticeship Course * 4 or more years experience in line construction, operation ... Must have mechanical skills, ability to work in a team setting, capable communicator * Ability to ...

New

Line Mechanic

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$39.99 - $51.93/hr

Lineman Apprenticeship Course * 4 or more years experience in line construction, operation ... Must have mechanical skills, ability to work in a team setting, capable communicator * Ability to ...

New

Construction Worker

Ames, IA · On-site

$17.50 - $23.75/hr

... lineman or rebar pliers. Travel : Some out-of-area and overnight travel may be expected; job sites ... Must possess adequate communicative, auditory, and visual capabilities to avoid safety hazards.

Construction Worker

Ames, IA · On-site

$17.50 - $23.75/hr

... lineman or rebar pliers. Travel: Some out-of-area and overnight travel may be expected; job sites ... Must possess adequate communicative, auditory, and visual capabilities to avoid safety hazards.

Construction Worker

Ames, IA

$17.50 - $23.75/hr

... lineman or rebar pliers. Travel: Some out-of-area and overnight travel may be expected; job sites ... Must possess adequate communicative, auditory, and visual capabilities to avoid safety hazards.

Communication Lineman information

See Iowa salary details

$13

$38

$56

How much do communication lineman jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for communication lineman in Iowa is $38.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.88 and $49.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a communication lineman?

Communication linemen are skilled tradespeople who install, maintain, and repair the cables and equipment used for telecommunications, such as telephone, internet, and television lines. They work on overhead and underground lines to ensure the reliable transmission of data and voice signals. Their duties often involve climbing poles, working with specialized equipment, and troubleshooting network issues in various weather conditions. Communication linemen play a critical role in keeping communities connected and ensuring communication systems function efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a communication lineman?

To excel as a Communication Lineman, you need expertise in installing, maintaining, and repairing telecommunications lines, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and completion of an apprenticeship or technical training. Familiarity with fiber optic splicing tools, climbing equipment, safety gear, and industry standards like OSHA regulations is crucial. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively in teams and at heights set top performers apart. These skills ensure reliable network infrastructure, safety, and efficient project completion in a physically demanding environment.

What are some common challenges communication linemen face when working on-site, and how are they addressed?

Communication Linemen often work in diverse environments, from urban streets to remote rural areas, which can present challenges such as inclement weather, difficult terrain, and working at heights. Safety is a top priority, so linemen receive ongoing training and use specialized equipment to mitigate risks. Team coordination is essential, as tasks like installing or repairing cables often require clear communication and cooperation with crew members and supervisors. Additionally, linemen must adapt to rapidly changing technology in communication systems, which requires continuous learning and skills development.

What is the difference between Communication Lineman vs Electrician?

AspectCommunication LinemanElectrician
CredentialsClimbing certifications, OSHA safety trainingElectrical licensing, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentUtility poles, underground cables, outdoor settingsResidential, commercial, industrial buildings
Industry UsageTelecommunications, cable companies, internet providersElectrical systems, power distribution

Communication Linemen primarily work on installing and maintaining telecommunication and cable systems, often outdoors on utility poles. Electricians focus on electrical wiring and systems within buildings. Both roles require safety certifications and involve working with electrical components, but their work environments and industry applications differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Communication Lineman jobs in Iowa?

For Communication Lineman jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Communication Lineman job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $80,392 per year, or $38.6 per hour.

High Voltage Electrician Lineman (Apprentice)

U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)

Hinton, IA

$44.11/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


U.S. Department Of Energy rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

144th of 849 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

This position is part of the Western Area Power Administration. As a High Voltage Electrician Lineman (Apprentice), you will be a is established as an apprentice in the Lineman trade. During the term of the apprenticeship, the apprentice shall be provided progressively more complex and responsible training and experience in order to assure that upon completion, the apprentice will possess both the theoretical and practical knowledge, skill, and ability of the trade
Qualifications:

Qualifications: In order to qualify for this position, your resume must provide sufficient experience and/or education, knowledge, skills, and abilities, to perform the duties of the specific position for which you are being considered. Your resume is the key means we have for evaluating your skills, knowledge, and abilities, as they relate to this position. Therefore, we encourage you to submit a thorough resume that directly relates to this position.
Applicants must meet the requirements of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Job Qualification System for Trades and Labor Occupations (X-118C). Although a specific length of time and experience is not required for most trade and labor occupations, you must show through experience and training that you possess the quality level of knowledge and skill necessary to perform the duties of the position at the level for which you are applying.
Qualification requirements emphasis is on the quality of experience, not necessarily the length of time. Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the job elements and screen out listed below. Your resume should demonstrate that you possess these elements and screen out. Do not provide a separate narrative written statement. Rather, you must describe in your resume how your past work experience demonstrates that you possess the elements and screen out identified below.
The screen-out element for this position is below. Failure to meet this Screen out Element will result in an ineligible rating:

  • Select the answer that best describes your aptitude and interest for learning trade theory and practice and ability to perform simple tasks under close supervision.

If your knowledge and ability in the SCREEN OUT factor above is not sufficient, you will receive no further consideration. In preparing your application, describe in detail the experience and training which you have had that specifically prepared you for this job and to perform the duties described for this job. Experience should be clearly described and documented in your resume.
The qualifications reviewer will not assume performance of such duties by Job Titles alone.
"Experience" refers to paid and unpaid experience. Examples of qualifying unpaid experience may include: volunteer work done through National Service programs (such as Peace Corps and AmeriCorps); as well as work for other community-based philanthropic and social organizations. Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills; and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Physical Effor: The work is physically demanding. The incumbent frequently lifts items weighing over 50 pounds
to install, inspect, and/or repair transmission lines; climbs and works aloft on structures; and works at ground level and in ground trenches requiring bending, stooping, climbing, and standing for long periods. The position requires coordination of eyes, hands, legs, and body to install and repair equipment in confined spaces and on overhead structures.
Work Conditions: Most of the work takes place outside and is subject to hazardous materials and extreme weather
conditions. Work requires being in close proximity to high voltage lines and equipment. Work requires climbing transmission structures averaging 65 feet tall, but up to 500 feet tall, and communication towers up to 400 feet tall. The work has high potential for injury by contact with high voltage lines, broken bones in falls from poles or structures, muscle strains from awkward positions, and cuts and bruises when handling tools and materials.
Limit your resume to no more than two (2) pages. If more than two pages are submitted, only the first two pages will be reviewed to determine your eligibility and qualifications.

Education:

For this position, education cannot be substituted for experience.

Employment Type: OTHER

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