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Powerline Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Forklift Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

Forklift Operator: Operate a 36,000 - 70,000lb. forklift, including but not limited to pull ... farm equipment, powerline towers, storage tanks, frames for stadiums, and more. In addition to ...

Forklift Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

Forklift Operator: Operate a 36,000 - 70,000lb. forklift, including but not limited to pull ... farm equipment, powerline towers, storage tanks, frames for stadiums, and more. In addition to ...

Forklift Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

Forklift Operator: Operate a 36,000 - 70,000lb. forklift, including but not limited to pull ... farm equipment, powerline towers, storage tanks, frames for stadiums, and more. In addition to ...

Forklift Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

Forklift Operator: Operate a 36,000 - 70,000lb. forklift, including but not limited to pull ... farm equipment, powerline towers, storage tanks, frames for stadiums, and more. In addition to ...

Forklift Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

Forklift Operator: Operate a 36,000 - 70,000lb. forklift, including but not limited to pull ... farm equipment, powerline towers, storage tanks, frames for stadiums, and more. In addition to ...

Forklift Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

Forklift Operator Operate a 36,000 - 70,000lb. forklift, including but not limited to pull material ... farm equipment, powerline towers, storage tanks, frames for stadiums, and more. In addition to ...

Showing results 41-60

Powerline Equipment Operator information

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$14

$21

$29

How much do powerline equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for powerline equipment operator in the United States is $21.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a powerline equipment operator?

Powerline Equipment Operators are skilled professionals responsible for operating specialized machinery and vehicles used in the installation, maintenance, and repair of electrical power lines. They handle equipment such as bucket trucks, digger derricks, cranes, and trenchers to assist lineworkers in reaching and working on elevated or underground power lines. Their role is critical to ensuring the safe and efficient construction and upkeep of electrical distribution and transmission systems.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a powerline equipment operator?

To thrive as a Powerline Equipment Operator, you need a solid understanding of electrical systems, safety protocols, and experience with heavy machinery, typically supported by a high school diploma and specialized technical training. Familiarity with equipment such as bucket trucks, digger derricks, and safety harness systems, as well as OSHA certifications, is essential. Attention to detail, strong teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills for operating safely and efficiently in high-risk environments. These skills ensure the safe installation and maintenance of power lines, minimizing downtime and risks for both workers and the public.

What challenges do powerline equipment operators face, and how can they be addressed?

Powerline Equipment Operators often work in challenging outdoor environments and must adapt to varying weather conditions and rugged terrain. A key challenge is ensuring safety while operating heavy machinery near high-voltage lines; thorough training and strict adherence to safety protocols are essential to mitigate risks. Additionally, operators frequently collaborate with lineworkers and other team members, so strong communication and situational awareness are crucial for coordinating tasks efficiently. Staying proactive about equipment maintenance and continuous learning about industry best practices also helps address many day-to-day challenges.

What is the difference between Powerline Equipment Operator vs Lineman?

AspectPowerline Equipment OperatorLineman
CredentialsHigh school diploma, CDL often preferredHigh school diploma, lineman certification or apprenticeship
Work EnvironmentOperating heavy machinery, outdoor construction sitesClimbing poles, working on energized lines
Employer & IndustryUtility companies, construction firmsUtility companies, electrical contractors

Powerline Equipment Operators primarily focus on operating machinery to install and maintain power lines, while Linemen perform physical work on poles and energized lines. Both roles require safety training and certifications, but Linemen often have more specialized skills for working directly on electrical lines. The roles are complementary within the utility industry, with Equipment Operators supporting the physical infrastructure work of Linemen.

What cities are hiring for Powerline Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Powerline Equipment Operator job openings:

What states have the most Powerline Equipment Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Powerline Equipment Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Powerline Equipment Operator jobs?

For Powerline Equipment Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Powerline Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,993 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Forklift Operator

Houston, TX • On-site

Steel And Pipe Supply Company
Metal Product Wholesalers • 501 - 1,000 employees

$16.25 - $19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Forklift Operator: Operate a 36,000 - 70,000lb. forklift, including but not limited to pull material (coils) and stage for production, load unload trucks. Perform daily inspections of the equipment, record results and report any problems to be scheduled for repair. Safely operate a forklift and assist other departments including but not limited to; loading trailers, moving trailers to proper area for loading, receiving and tagging inbound coils.  Assist in anyway necessary to successfully complete daily tasks.

What is a Forklift Operator/Helper

Someone who can safely operate up to 70,000 lb. forklift and assist other departments including but not limited to; loading trailers, moving trailers to proper area for loading, receiving and tagging inbound coils, loading and unloading of beams and mill plate. Assist in anyway necessary to successfully complete daily tasks.

What can you expect from the job?

1st shift training for at least 90 day, schedules vary but will start off from 7:00am to 3:30pm while training Monday – Friday and Saturday as needed. 

Industrial environment, Exposure to the elements, Dirty working conditions, Regular exposure to moving mechanical or machinery parts, moderately stressful & constantly changing work environment, lots of walking & standing or when operating forklift, lots of sitting for long periods of time.  Frequent lifting, pushing, or pulling of material up to 51 lbs.

What are the requirements?

  • Must have 3+ years of experience operating forklifts.
  • Must have 2+ years of experience in loading/unloading Coils, Channels, Beams, and Mill Plate.
  • Must have experience in unloading and loading railcars.
  • Valid driver's license
  • 18+ years old
  • Basic math skills
  • Basic literacy for reading instructions and using hand tools.
  • Basic computer skills
  • Prefer experience using machinery and forklift

Pay and Benefits

  • Quarterly bonus opportunity
  • Annual holiday bonus based on company performance
  • Opportunity to work overtime
  • 401k retirement contribution matching – 50% company match up to 6% of your annual wages
  • Company covers about 80% of the cost of medical insurance for you and your family
  • Company covers 100% of the cost for a life-insurance policy
  • Company covers 100% of the cost for both short and long-term disability insurance policies
  • Children of long-term employees can apply for company scholarships
  • Paid personal time available for use as it accrues (max of 52 hours per year)
  • One week of paid vacation after 6 months
  • Two weeks of paid vacation after one year

What is Steel & Pipe Supply? 

Steel and Pipe Supply buys steel and sells it to large customers that make products like farm equipment, powerline towers, storage tanks, frames for stadiums, and more. In addition to storing steel, some of our service centers process it – cut, bend, decoil, etc. – to make life easy for our customers. If you’re not sure whether Steel and Pipe Supply is right for you, feel free to stop by and ask for a job preview – we’d be happy to show you around!

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. EEO/AA Minorities/Female/Disabilities/Veterans