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Power Line Tree Trimming Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Connect service drops between power line and customer. Install, remove, and wire transformer banks ... Some knowledge of tree trimming and removal. Skill in maintenance and repair of tools, equipment ...

Electric Lineworker

Winnetka, IL · On-site

$138K - $143K/yr

Connect service drops between power line and customer. * Install, remove, and wire transformer ... Some knowledge of tree trimming and removal. * Skill in maintenance and repair of tools, equipment ...

Tree Climber

Lockport, IL · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

The Tree Climber is responsible for trimming, pruning and tree removal. This may include using ... flip-line, etc Benefits: * Starting pay is $23-28/hr * Pay is determined by experience, skill ...

... and equipment in trimming, pruning and tree removal. THIS POSITION IS PHYSICALLY DEMANDING ... line, etc.) * Performs necessary techniques to remove hazardous trees safely (cabling, bracing ...

GROUNDSKEEPER III

Elgin, IL · On-site

$35K - $43K/yr

Lawn maintenance, tree trimming, planting, aerating, and slit seeding across campus. * CDL Vehicle ... hogs, slit seeders, and power augers. Company Description Elgin Community College is a ...

Forestry Technician II

Oak Park, IL · On-site

$34K - $45K/yr

Methods and techniques of tree trimming, removal and planting, landscape maintenance, and pesticide ... Use and operate hand tools, power tools, chain saws, and mechanical equipment including aerial lift ...

LOAD DISPATCHER

Chicago, IL · On-site

$11K/mo

... tree, water/sewer lines damages) based on information relayed from the field by crews • Closes ... power line or telecommunications line installer and repairer work experience Should the above ...

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Power Line Tree Trimming information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$10

$19

$26

How much do power line tree trimming jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for power line tree trimming in Chicago, IL is $19.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $21.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is power line tree trimming?

Power line tree trimming is the process of cutting and removing branches, limbs, or trees that are too close to electrical power lines. This work is necessary to prevent outages, fires, and electrical hazards caused by trees coming into contact with live wires. Specialized crews use equipment and follow safety protocols to trim trees while maintaining the health of the tree and ensuring reliable electricity. Utility companies often schedule regular trimming to maintain clearances and comply with regulations. Proper tree trimming helps protect both public safety and the power infrastructure.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a power line tree trimmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Power Line Tree Trimmer, you need knowledge of tree biology, safe trimming techniques, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by on-the-job training. Familiarity with chainsaws, aerial lifts, climbing gear, and electrical hazard awareness certifications are typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills for this role. These abilities help ensure safety, prevent power outages, and promote efficient, hazard-free work around electrical infrastructure.

What are some common challenges faced by power line tree trimming professionals, and how are they addressed on the job?

Power Line Tree Trimming professionals often encounter challenges such as working in close proximity to high-voltage power lines, navigating varying weather conditions, and managing large, potentially hazardous equipment. To address these, teams follow strict safety protocols, receive specialized training in electrical hazard awareness, and use insulated tools and protective gear. Regular communication and coordination with utility crews are also essential to ensure safe and efficient operations, minimizing risks and service interruptions.

What is the difference between Power Line Tree Trimming vs Power Line Maintenance Worker?

AspectPower Line Tree TrimmingPower Line Maintenance Worker
CertificationsClimbing certification, OSHA safety trainingClimbing certification, OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, near power lines, in treesOutdoor, near power lines, on poles and equipment
Job FocusPruning and removing trees near power linesInspecting, repairing, and maintaining power lines and equipment

Power Line Tree Trimming and Power Line Maintenance Worker roles both require climbing skills and safety certifications. Tree trimming focuses on managing vegetation around power lines, while maintenance workers handle the repair and upkeep of the electrical infrastructure. Both jobs are essential for reliable power delivery and involve outdoor work near energized lines.

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Power Line Tree Trimming jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Power Line Tree Trimming job openings:

Infographic showing various Power Line Tree Trimming job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $39,986 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

$138K - $143K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

General Purpose The Electric Lineworker installs, repairs, maintains, and relocates overhead and/or underground electric distribution and transmission systems in the Village of Winnetka.. Lineworkers may encounter serious hazards on the job, including working with high-voltage electricity. Because of the need to rely on fellow crew members for safety, teamwork is critical

Line work includes identifying and repairing defective devices, conduits, cables, wires, transformers, circuit breakers, and switches; inspecting and testing power lines and auxiliary equipment; climbing poles; and operating truck-mounted buckets and power equipment. In addition to normal line work, electric lineworkers also assist with the construction, operation, and maintenance of the Village's water distribution system. Essential Functions: Construct, install, maintain, and repair power cables, manholes, vaults, pipes, ductwork, transformers, switchgear, street lights and poles, auxiliary equipment, service drops, etc.

Attach crossarms, insulators, lightning arresters, switches, conductors, and auxiliary equipment to utility poles prior to setting in place; erect poles; install and adjust guy wires. Perform circuit switching; climb utility poles and operate truck-mounted lift bucket equipment to install or repair overhead power and auxiliary equipment. Inspect distribution system to prevent or detect problems; locate and determine cause of interruption; trim trees and brush prior to new construction and during repair of damaged lines.

Open switches and attach grounding devices to de-energize lines or accessories to facilitate repairs and remove electrical hazards. Cover energized lines with rubber protective equipment and use insulated poles (hot sticks) fitted with grasping or crimping tools and high voltage rubber gloves to facilitate safe handling of high-voltage lines without service interruption. String conductors between erected poles and adjust slack; secure new wires to crossarm insulators.

Test each conductor to identify corresponding conductors and detect faulted circuits or incorrect connections. Splice, terminate, and insulate conductors, related cables, and wiring to complete circuit and connect transformers and electrical accessories. Test power lines and auxiliary equipment to identify defective transformers, switches, and related accessories causing line disturbances.

Re-insulate and replace worn cables and wires. Connect service drops between power line and customer. Install, remove, and wire transformer banks, traffic signals, and street light poles; connect street lights and traffic signals to power circuit.

Maintain and repair street lights and traffic signals; examine components for defects or excessive wear; replace defective parts; clean and paint lamp components. Demolish or trim vaults and manholes; install and build wooden forms, sheeting, shoring, and bracing for excavation. Erect steel reinforcing for concrete vaults and manholes; mix, pour, and finish concrete; remove forms when concrete has set.

Install and repair underground conduit and cable systems; install brackets and braces; cut apertures required for duct and electric equipment installation. Test for and clear obstructions in ducts and conduit; install metal conduit; pull cables through ducts and conduits; splice cable and insulate. Install and repair transformers and other electric equipment in vaults and manholes.

Confer with and assist other specialized work crews, departments, utilities, or contractors in the event of emergency, personnel shortage, major construction activity, or as otherwise needed. Assist with the construction, operation, and maintenance of the Village's water distribution system. Perform other duties as assigned.

Desired Minimum Qualifications Graduation from high school or GED equivalent. Four (4) years' minimum work experience as Apprentice Electric Lineworker and successful completion of apprenticeship. Certified Journeyman license Successful completion of at least four seminars on hot line maintenance and continuing refresher courses on same.

Comparable combination of training and experience. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Read, clearly speak and legibly write the English language. Advanced knowledge of proper and safe construction, maintenance and repair methods for electric distribution systems and auxiliary equipment.

Ability to diagnose problems and repair or replace complex electrical lines and equipment. Skill in safe and proper use and operation of equipment, tools, and hardware used in electric industry. Working knowledge of basic electricity.

Ability to properly interpret circuit maps, blueprints, and work orders. Some knowledge of tree trimming and removal. Skill in maintenance and repair of tools, equipment, and electrical hardware.

Valid Illinois Class A CDL driver's license. Other Requirements Shifts are typically 8 hours in duration (7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.), 40 hours weekly, but may be extended or altered in the event of emergency, personnel shortage, workload, and/or work in progress

Position has "on-call" responsibilities and may be required to work nights, early mornings, weekends, and/or holidays on short notice. Work is sometimes required under adverse or unusual conditions such as, but not limited to, cold, hot, wet, dark, dusty, noisy and cramped surroundings, in all weather conditions, and at all hours of the day. The position requires the ability to use and operate motorized vehicles and equipment, common hand and power tools, mobile radios and telephones; lift and/or move up to 100 pounds; effective audio-visual discrimination and perception; color vision adequate to identify red, yellow and green; and hearing sufficient to understand verbal direction and to detect abnormal equipment operation and alarms.

Village of Winnetka The Village of Winnetka is an established North Shore suburban community, located approximately 20 miles north of Chicago. Its Water & Electric Department, with 34 employees, is responsible for the water and electric plants (located on Tower Road adjacent to Lake Michigan) as well as both distribution systems. The peak electrical demand for the Village is 40 MW.

This department works closely with a separate Public Works Department that provides other public services. Position Range: $138,798 - $143,093 No relocation expenses are provided for this position. Due to the "on-call" nature of the position, successful candidate will be expected to reside within 60 minutes in proximity to the Village of Winnetka within 90 days of employment.

For questions or assistance, please contact Ann Eriksson, Human Resources Manager, at (847) 716-3546 or aeriksson@winnetka.org.