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Contract Lineman Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Contract Lineman information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$13

$40

$58

How much do contract lineman jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract lineman in Raleigh, NC is $40.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.79 and $51.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Contract Lineman vs Lineworker?

AspectContract LinemanLineworker
CredentialsTypically requires OSHA safety training, CDL (if applicable), and electrical safety certificationsRequires OSHA safety training, electrical certifications, and often a state license
Work EnvironmentPrimarily works on temporary or project-based sites, often outdoors on power linesWorks on utility company infrastructure, maintaining and repairing power lines
Employer & Industry UsageHired by contractors or utility companies for specific projectsEmployed directly by utility companies or contractors

Contract Linemen and Lineworkers share similar skills and certifications, often working in outdoor environments on power lines. The main difference is that Contract Linemen are typically hired for specific projects or temporary work, while Lineworkers are usually employed directly by utility companies for ongoing maintenance and repairs.

What are some common challenges contract linemen face when working on multiple job sites?

Contract linemen often move between job sites, which can present challenges such as adapting to different safety protocols, working conditions, and team dynamics. Each site may require familiarity with varying equipment and local regulations, making flexibility and quick learning essential. Additionally, contract linemen frequently work outdoors in diverse weather conditions and may need to adjust to irregular hours based on project needs. Building strong communication skills helps when collaborating with new crews to ensure safety and efficiency.

How hard is it to get hired as a contract lineman?

Getting hired as a contract lineman can be competitive and typically requires relevant experience, technical skills, and safety certifications such as OSHA training. Employers often prefer candidates with a strong work history in utility or construction environments and the ability to work in challenging outdoor conditions. The hiring process may also include physical tests and background checks.

What is a contract lineman?

Contract linemen are skilled electrical workers who are hired on a temporary or project basis to install, maintain, and repair high-voltage power lines and related equipment. Unlike utility company employees, contract linemen typically work for specialized contracting firms and may travel to different locations as needed, especially during emergencies or large infrastructure projects. Their work is critical to ensuring the reliable delivery of electricity and often involves working in challenging weather conditions and at significant heights. Contract linemen must have technical training, safety certifications, and a strong understanding of electrical systems to perform their duties safely and effectively.

What does a contract lineman do?

The job duties of a contract lineman involve installing and repairing electrical lines, connections, and related electric infrastructure. As a contractor, you work on a freelance basis, and your responsibilities can vary depending on the details of each assignment. Companies that contract lineman provide services related to repairing power lines both underground and above ground, installing electrical meters, and performing emergency repairs to restore utilities following a storm or power outage. Linemen need to follow safety procedures when working on electrical equipment and climbing poles to access electric power lines. You need your own tools and vehicle in this career, but some companies may provide you with more complex equipment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract lineman, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Lineman, you need strong electrical knowledge, physical fitness, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often complemented by completion of a recognized apprenticeship program. Familiarity with bucket trucks, climbing gear, protective equipment, and safety certifications like OSHA or CPR are typically required. Excellent teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and attention to detail distinguish top performers in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for maintaining safety, ensuring reliable power infrastructure, and efficiently addressing electrical outages or emergencies.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lineman jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Lineman jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Contract Lineman jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Contract Lineman jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Lineman jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Lineman jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Contract Lineman jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Contract Lineman job openings:
Infographic showing various Contract Lineman job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 23% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $83,201 per year, or $40 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

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Utility Lines Construction Services rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description
Overhead Distribution Apprentice Lineperson
The Overhead Distribution Apprentice Lineperson will assist with construction and maintenance of overhead distribution lines and equipment.
Pay: Competitive/Hourly
Benefits:
  • Health/Dental/Vision Insurance
  • Short/Long Term Disability
  • Matching 401(k) Plan
  • Paid Holidays and Vacation
  • FR Clothing Provided
  • Employee Payroll Deduction Program

Essential Functions & Responsibilities:
  • Clears work area and maintains safe jobsite conditions.
  • Assists with assembling material and work from the ground to be installed by lineperson and assists with the installation.
  • Climb wooden poles to help perform duties
  • Excavates to assist in the installation of structures or cable as required by contract specification.
  • Will have contact with public and private property owners to communicate work to be performed.
  • Participates in company training of all regional safety guidelines and is required to perform all work by the regional safety policies.
  • Operates various tools for the work (manual digging devices, wrenches, hammers, drills, come-alongs, jack hammer, power tamp, and handline etc.).
  • Works around hazardous and near energized parts or equipment.
  • Works around excessive noise from machines, jackhammers, chain saws and other equipment with proper hearing protection.
  • All other duties as required or requested by Supervisors.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Able to:
    • work with hands above head for extended periods of time.
    • meet and maintain weight restrictions for bucket truck as identified by truck manufacturer.
    • safely enter and exit the aerial device and rear-end of the bucket and derrick trucks
    • effectively cover up to safely complete work on energized lines, and equipment
    • work efficiently and effectively from heights.
    • follow directions, work safely & productively
    • work long hours and overtime during holidays, emergencies, weekends, etc. Subject to call out work.

Education & Experience
  • 1+ year(s) of trade experience or formal training

Pre-Screen
  • Upon offer, employees may be required to complete and pass a pre-employment drug screen, background, and/or MVR check.

License & Certifications:
  • DOT medical card required within 90 days of employment.
  • Valid commercial driver's license preferred within 90 days of employment.
  • Valid Driver's License required.

Travel Requirements:
  • Must have transportation to and from the show up location.
  • Must be willing to travel out of state for emergency storm work.

Physical Requirements:
  • RARE (up to 10%): sitting, crawling
  • OCCASIONAL (up to 33%): stooping, kneeling, squatting, body twisting, sense of touch, climbing, reading, pushing, balancing.
  • FREQUENT (up to 66 %): walking, manual dexterity, seeing distant, climbing on/off truck, gripping, lifting over 10 lbs. to 50 lbs., reaching, range of motion, depth perception, lifting, carrying, pulling, climbing ladders, climbing stairs, lifting up to 50 lbs.
  • CONTINUOUS (up to 100%): standing, speaking clearly, seeing, hearing-speech range, color vision, lifting up to 10 lbs.

Individuals with a disability who desire a reasonable accommodation can contact the ADA Coordinator by calling 1-833-222-3066. We partner with the Department of Homeland Security/U.S. Customs and Immigration Service to e-Verify all newly hired employees.
Benefits
We offer a competitive range of benefits to support our employees' health, well-being, and financial security. Medical, dental, and vision benefits are available to all eligible employees on the first day of employment. For more information on the benefits available for this role, please contact the recruiter or hiring manager.
Individuals with a disability who desire a reasonable accommodation can contact the ADA Coordinator by calling 1-833-222-3066. We partner with the Department of Homeland Security/U.S. Customs and Immigration Service to e-Verify all newly hired employees.
An Equal Opportunity Employer.
Please note:
  • All job offers are subject to pre-employment drug screening and a background check.
  • Unless otherwise noted, we do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.
Notice to Agencies: We only accept resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or staffing services if a Service Agreement has been signed and we have requested recruitment/staffing services for the specific position. Any unsolicited resumes will become the property of the company, and no fees or compensation will be paid to the recruiter, employment agency, or staffing service.

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