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Entry Level Lineman Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Lineman information

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$14

$41

$60

How much do entry level lineman jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lineman in the United States is $41.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.61 and $53.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level linemen during their first year on the job?

Entry level linemen often face challenges such as adapting to physically demanding work, learning to prioritize safety in hazardous environments, and becoming proficient with specialized tools and equipment. Adjusting to outdoor work in varying weather conditions and working at heights can also be difficult initially. Many new linemen find that developing strong teamwork and communication skills with experienced crew members is essential for both safety and success on the job.

Is 25 too old to become a lineman?

Entry-level lineman positions typically do not have an age limit, and individuals can start training at age 25 or older. Success in the role depends on physical fitness, technical skills, and completing required certifications such as OSHA safety training. Many employers value diverse backgrounds and experience, making 25 a reasonable age to pursue a career as a lineman.

What is the difference between Entry Level Lineman vs Apprentice Lineman?

AspectEntry Level LinemanApprentice Lineman
CertificationsHigh school diploma, OSHA safety trainingSame as Entry Level Lineman, plus apprenticeship program
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, utility poles, power linesIndoor classroom and outdoor fieldwork
Employer UsageUtility companies, contractorsUtility companies, training programs

Both roles involve working with power lines and require safety certifications. An Apprentice Lineman is typically in training, gaining hands-on experience through an apprenticeship, while an Entry Level Lineman may have completed training and is starting independent work. The main difference lies in experience level and training stage, with apprentices still learning the trade.

What are entry level linemen?

Entry level linemen are workers who begin their careers in the electrical utility industry by assisting with the installation, maintenance, and repair of power lines. They typically work under the supervision of experienced linemen, learning the skills and safety protocols necessary for handling electrical systems and working at heights. Entry level linemen perform tasks such as setting poles, stringing wire, and operating equipment while they gain the experience needed to advance in the field.

What Does an Entry-Level Lineman Do?

As an entry-level lineman, which some employers refer to as an apprentice or Class C lineman, your job is to learn more about electricity, electrical systems, and safety techniques. In this role, you may perform supervised maintenance or repair of equipment like transformers, help install common types of equipment, and participate in field training to further develop your skills. Like other linemen, this job often involves working outdoors in various weather conditions and frequently requires traveling for extended periods as needed. This job usually lasts for several years and frequently provides the opportunity for automatic promotion to the journeyman level as long as you pass any tests provided by your employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Lineman, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Lineman, you need a solid understanding of electrical systems, basic mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by completion of a lineman training program. Familiarity with safety equipment, climbing gear, and tools like voltage testers and bucket trucks is essential, and OSHA safety certifications are highly valued. Strong teamwork, effective communication, and a commitment to safety are important soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure safe and efficient installation, maintenance, and repair of power lines, which is critical for reliable electrical service and personal safety.

How do I start a career in lineman?

To start a career as an entry-level lineman, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by completing an apprenticeship program or technical training in electrical systems. Physical fitness, safety awareness, and the ability to work at heights are essential, and obtaining certifications such as OSHA safety training can improve job prospects.

Is 40 too old to become a lineman apprentice?

Entry level lineman apprenticeships typically do not have strict age limits, and individuals of various ages, including those around 40, can qualify if they meet physical requirements and pass background checks. Prior experience in related trades, physical fitness, and obtaining necessary certifications like OSHA safety training can improve chances of acceptance. Age is generally not a barrier as long as the candidate can perform the physically demanding work and complete the training program.

Is lineman entry level?

Entry-level lineman positions typically require little to no prior experience and focus on basic skills such as safety procedures, equipment handling, and physical fitness. Most employers provide on-the-job training, and candidates often need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with a valid driver's license. Advancement usually involves gaining experience and obtaining certifications like OSHA safety training.
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Lineman jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Lineman job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Lineman jobs? The most popular types of Lineman jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Lineman jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Lineman jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Lineman job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,590 per year, or $41.1 per hour.
C Lineman - Overhead (Dominion)

C Lineman - Overhead (Dominion)

Pike Corporation

Manassas, VA

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Position Summary: Class C Lineman is an entry level lineman position in the construction, maintenance and repair of electrical overhead distribution systems. This position works at various locations. The position may also be required to travel to another state depending on customer demands.


Essential Functions:

  • Work safely while performing new construction, maintenance or repair work of energized and de-energized overhead work.
  • Stringing overhead wire.
  • Setting poles and anchors.
  • Assists with installing transformers, lightening arrestors, cutouts, crossarms, insulators, switches and switchgear.
  • Assists in replacing fuses in transformers and clears faulted circuits and systems.
  • Frequently works with energized high voltage systems requiring skill and care to protect the lives of themselves and others.
  • Maintains company vehicles, equipment and tools in good working order.
  • Does all other related work as required to complete the job.

Minimum Requirements:

  • 1-2 years of minimum experience required.
  • Able to perform rigorous physical labor.
  • Able to identify primary and secondary voltage on a circuit.
  • Must be familiar with induced voltage.
  • Capable of assisting with the installation and hook up of a single phase transformer.
  • Capable of safely setting a pole.
  • Capable of working at heights and/or confined spaces.
  • Capable of properly installing and removing PPE and cover up.
  • Capable of checking voltage on transformers.
  • Capable of installing and removing a service.
  • Capable of properly inspecting rubber goods and PPE.
  • Must be able to climb different types of structures (wood, steel, etc.) and possess the necessary tools to do so.
  • Understands how to tie various lineman knots.
  • Capable of making up and using a hand line.
  • Understands grounding procedures.
  • Understands proper equipment set-up and grounding procedures.
  • Understands how and when to use Kellum grips.
  • Able to identify different types of materials used in line work.
  • Able to travel long distances on short notice, when required.
  • Able to work for extended periods in various locations, when required.
  • Able to obtain a Commercial Driver's License.
  • A Commercial Driver's License is preferred.
  • Able to lift in excess of 50 lbs.
  • Must be able to work outside, frequently in inclement weather.
  • Willing to work over-time when requested.
  • Willing to work outside of the normal work schedule including weekends, holidays, and overtime as required for the position

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, and feel; and reach with hands and arms.

Work Environment:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to fumes or airborne particles, moving mechanical parts and vibration. The employee is occasionally exposed to a variety of extreme conditions at construction job sites. The noise level in the work environment and job sites can be loud. This position is performed in outside weather conditions.

Competencies:

  • Self-Motivated
  • Team-Oriented
  • Customer Oriented
  • Must be able to follow Company safety rules and all other Company policies.

Equal Opportunity Employer - Minorities/Females/Veterans/Disabled
VA Approved Apprenticeship Program - GI Bill Benefits Available to Eligible Veterans
Pike is a Non-union Company
 

NOTE:  This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employee may perform other related duties as required to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.

About Us
Founded in 1945, Pike is a leading provider of construction, repair and engineering services for electric and gas utilities, as well as telecommunications companies with a growing portfolio of turnkey renewable projects. We work with hundreds of utility clients across the country, and we continuously expand our offerings to supply our customers with the ideas, technology, experience, manpower and equipment to perform any job.
"Essential" is the one word that sums up who we are, the work we do and what our people mean to us. Each of our employees plays a critical role in ensuring that infrastructure systems are up and running when people and businesses need them.
Pike is a family-oriented workplace with a strong culture of safety, collaboration, innovation and exceptional customer service.
Electric

We work with utilities across the country to solve our nation's energy infrastructure challenges, from designing new transmission and distribution systems, upgrading and managing installation of the latest smart meter technologies, and integrating renewable energy sources onto the grid.