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Pole Inspector Jobs in Norfolk, VA (NOW HIRING)

Journeyman Electrician

Chesapeake, VA

$27 - $37/hr

... pole-mounted lighting equipment Install, repair, and maintain lighting fixtures, wiring, conduit ... inspectors, customers, and other field personnel as needed Position Requirements Journeyman ...

Work from the ground using hand saws, pole saws, pruners, hand pruners, loppers, and gas-powered chain saws * Inspect and ensure proper working condition of all assigned tools and equipment

Work from the ground using hand saws, pole saws, pruners, hand pruners, loppers, and gas-powered chain saws * Inspect and ensure proper working condition of all assigned tools and equipment

Work from the ground using hand saws, pole saws, pruners, hand pruners, loppers, and gas-powered chain saws * Inspect and ensure proper working condition of all assigned tools and equipment

Work from the ground using hand saws, pole saws, pruners, hand pruners, loppers, and gas-powered chain saws * Inspect and ensure proper working condition of all assigned tools and equipment

Climber - Suffolk, VA

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$24.50/hr

Work from the ground using hand saws, pole saws, pruners, hand pruners, loppers, and gas-powered chain saws * Inspect and ensure proper working condition of all assigned tools and equipment

Pole Inspector information

See Norfolk, VA salary details

$23.7K

$53.2K

$95.8K

How much do pole inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for pole inspector in Norfolk, VA is $53,156.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,200.00 and $61,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a pole inspector?

Pole inspectors are professionals responsible for examining and assessing utility poles, such as those used for electrical lines, telecommunications, or street lighting. Their job involves checking the structural integrity, stability, and safety of poles to ensure they meet regulatory and company standards. Pole inspectors identify any signs of damage, decay, or hazards, and recommend repairs or replacements as needed. This work is critical for maintaining public safety and reliable utility services.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a pole inspector?

To excel as a Pole Inspector, you need a solid understanding of utility pole structures, inspection protocols, and safety regulations, often supported by relevant field experience or technical training. Familiarity with inspection software, GPS devices, cameras, and reporting systems is typically required. Attention to detail, strong observational skills, and effective communication are vital soft skills for accurately documenting findings and coordinating with utility teams. These competencies are crucial to ensure the structural integrity of utility poles, maintain public safety, and support reliable utility services.

What challenges do pole inspectors face in the field?

Pole inspectors often encounter challenges such as working in adverse weather conditions, accessing difficult or remote locations, and ensuring personal safety around electrical infrastructure. These challenges can be addressed by adhering to strict safety protocols, using appropriate personal protective equipment, and utilizing specialized tools or technology (like drones or mobile inspection apps) to streamline data collection. Additionally, maintaining clear communication with utility teams and participating in ongoing training can help inspectors stay prepared and effective in the field.

What is the difference between Pole Inspector vs Lineworker?

AspectPole InspectorLineworker
CertificationsClimbing and safety certifications, pole inspection licensesClimbing, safety, and electrical certifications
Work EnvironmentInspecting utility poles, often outdoors, at heightsInstalling, repairing, and maintaining power lines, outdoors at heights
Industry UsageUtility companies, infrastructure inspectionElectric utility companies, construction

While both Pole Inspectors and Lineworkers work outdoors at heights and require safety certifications, Pole Inspectors focus on inspecting and assessing poles for safety and integrity, whereas Lineworkers perform installation and repair of power lines. The roles often overlap in outdoor utility environments, but their primary responsibilities differ.

What job categories do people searching Pole Inspector jobs in Norfolk, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Pole Inspector jobs in Norfolk, VA are:

Infographic showing various Pole Inspector job openings in Norfolk, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,156 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Journeyman Lineman Instructor

Centura College

Norfolk, VA

$60/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Journeyman Lineworker / Lineman Instructor - Norfolk, Virginia 

Up to $60/Hour | $2,500 Sign-On Bonus | Consistent Weekday Schedule | Four-Day Workweek Option

Schedule

  • Monday-Thursday: 8:30 AM-4:00 PM
  • Friday: 9:00 AM-5:00 PM
  • Four-day workweek option available

Take Your Lineman Career from the Field to the Classroom

Centura College is hiring an experienced Journeyman Lineman / Electrical Lineworker Instructor to train the next generation of electrical lineworkers.

If you have hands-on experience in electrical linework, power distribution, telecommunications, or related linework, this is an opportunity to put that experience to work in a new way.

As a Lineworker Instructor, you'll combine classroom instruction with hands-on training in pole climbing, lineworker safety, electrical distribution, rigging, pole-top rescue, aerial framing, bucket truck operations, digger derrick operations, grounding, and OSHA/NESC safety standards.

You can stay connected to the lineworker trade while moving into a more consistent weekday schedule with competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, a $2,500 sign-on bonus, and the option of a four-day workweek.

Why Experienced Lineman and Lineworkers Consider Teaching?
  • Earn up to $60/hour based on experience, qualifications, and other relevant factors.
  • Receive a $2,500 sign-on bonus.
  • Work a consistent weekday schedule.
  • Take advantage of a four-day workweek option.
  • Stay hands-on with lineworker training, pole climbing, rescue, rigging, and utility equipment.
  • Use your field experience to train and mentor future electrical lineworkers.
  • Receive comprehensive employee benefits, including health coverage available on your first day of employment.
  • Continue developing professionally while remaining connected to the utility and electrical linework industry.

What You'll Do as a Lineworker Instructor

The Electrical Lineworker program prepares students for entry-level careers in the utility and electrical power distribution industry through classroom instruction, safety training, and hands-on fieldwork.

As a Journeyman Lineman / Lineworker Instructor, you'll help students develop the technical skills, safety practices, and professional habits needed to begin a career in electrical linework.

Your responsibilities include:

  • Teach Lineman Training Program courses with emphasis on lineworker safety, OSHA/NESC standards, pole climbing, and rescue techniques.
  • Provide classroom, lab, and hands-on instruction in electrical lineworker skills and practices.
  • Demonstrate safe use of lineworker tools, climbing equipment, personal protective equipment, and utility equipment.
  • Assess student performance through assignments and hands-on evaluations and maintain accurate records.
  • Mentor students on lineworker career paths and certifications while supporting industry partnerships that enhance training and employment opportunities.
  • Maintain updated course materials and ensure all classroom, lab, and climbing equipment meet safety and industry standards.
  • Engage in ongoing professional development and complete duties assigned by program or campus leadership.
  • Perform and complete other tasks as assigned by the Program Coordinator, Campus Director of Education, and/or Campus Executive Director.
  • Work flexible hours as required.

Electrical Lineworker Skills You'll Help Students Develop

Students in the Electrical Lineworker program receive technical and hands-on training in areas including:

  • Electrical and lineworker safety
  • OSHA and NESC standards
  • Utility pole climbing
  • Climbing gear inspection and proper PPE use
  • Pole-top rescue
  • Bucket rescue techniques
  • Electrical fundamentals
  • Grounding and circuit analysis
  • Aerial framing
  • Pole setting
  • Rigging
  • Trenching
  • Bucket truck operation
  • Digger derrick operation
  • Ladder and scaffold safety
  • CPR, First Aid, and Bloodborne Pathogen procedures

Graduates leave the program with practical skills designed to prepare them to safely support electrical distribution construction and maintenance and advance into additional technical training or apprenticeships.

Qualifications

Education
  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • Associate's Degree in Electrical Systems Technology or related field preferred.
Experience / Skills
  • Minimum three (3) years of field experience performing journeyman-level or equivalent lineman duties in power distribution, telecommunications, or related work.
  • Demonstrated expertise in linework theory and practice, with up-to-date knowledge of current standards.
  • Ability to climb utility poles using appropriate equipment and perform pole-top and bucket rescue techniques.
  • Strong knowledge of OSHA, NESC, and other applicable safety regulations.
  • Ability to teach a diverse student body in a compliance-oriented environment.
  • Strong organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills.
  • Proficiency with MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams); experience with campus Nexus is a plus.

Certificates, Licenses & Registrations

  • National Center for Construction Education and Research NCCER Instructor Certification Training Program (ICTP) Certification is required before instructors start teaching classes. The company will pay for certification.
  • OSHA 10-hour safety certification within 6 months of hire date.
  • CPR certification current or within 3 months of hire date.
  • Electrical Journeyman Lineman preferred.
  • Valid unrestricted driver's license with an insurable driving record required; Class B CDL minimum, with Class A preferred.

Physical Requirements

This is a hands-on Electrical Lineworker Instructor position that requires the ability to:

  • Sit, stand, walk, bend, kneel, and climb for extended periods.
  • Climb utility poles and structures using proper equipment.
  • Lift and move up to 120 pounds.
  • Maintain the visual acuity and balance necessary to work safely at heights.

Work Environment

Electrical Lineworker instruction is delivered in classrooms, labs, and outdoor training yards.

Instructors provide both classroom and hands-on training and may be exposed to outdoor elements, including extreme weather, noise, vibration, and environmental hazards.

Compensation & Benefits

Compensation for this Journeyman Lineman / Electrical Lineworker Instructor position is up to $60 per hour, based on experience, qualifications, and other relevant factors.

Qualified new hires are also eligible for a $2,500 sign-on bonus.

Our comprehensive benefits package includes:

  • 401(k) and Matching: Competitive retirement savings plan.
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance: Coverage available on the first day of employment.
  • Life Insurance: Life insurance options for additional peace of mind.
  • Parental Leave: Support during important family transitions.
  • Paid Time Off: Paid time away from work to recharge.
  • Employee Assistance Program: Resources for personal and professional support.
  • Tuition Reimbursement: Financial support for continued education.

Bring Your Lineworker Experience to the Next Generation

Your experience as a lineman or lineworker can do more than build and maintain electrical distribution systems. It can help someone else build a career.

If you have the required field experience, strong technical knowledge, a commitment to lineworker safety, and the ability to teach and mentor others, consider bringing your experience from the field into the classroom and training yard.

Stay connected to the trade. Train future lineworkers. Build the next chapter of your career with Centura College.

Apply today for the Journeyman Lineman / Electrical Lineworker Instructor position.

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