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RennickBarrett Recruiting

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Electric Powerline Inspector (local candidates)

El Centro, CA · On-site

$34/hr

OVERVIEW This is a hands-on, field-based role for someone who knows distribution systems the way a mechanic knows an engine, by sound, by feel, and by pattern recognition. You'll be out in the system ...

Deseret Power

Lineman

Vernal, UT · On-site

Work assignments outside of the substation will include work with explosives for boiler de-slagging during unit outages, powerline inspection, maintenance, and vegetation management. You will be ...

CSI Powerline

Top Level linemen

Meeker, CO · On-site

Job Summary CSI Powerline is looking for Class A linemen for a long term project in Colorado ... Able to perform basic maintenance such as routine inspections, modification, installation and ...

CSI Powerline

Top Level linemen

Meeker, CO · On-site

$50 - $100/hr

Job Summary CSI Powerline is looking for Class A linemen for a long term project in Colorado ... Able to perform basic maintenance such as routine inspections, modification, installation and ...

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Powerline Inspector information

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$24.5K

$54.9K

$99K

How much do powerline inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for powerline inspector in the United States is $54,939.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $63,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Powerline Inspector, you need a solid understanding of electrical systems, utility safety standards, and experience with powerline infrastructure, often supported by relevant certifications or technical training. Familiarity with inspection tools, GIS mapping software, and sometimes drone technology is important for efficient assessment and reporting. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help inspectors identify hazards and coordinate with maintenance teams. These skills are critical to ensuring the safety, reliability, and regulatory compliance of electrical power distribution networks.

What are some common challenges faced by Powerline Inspectors during field inspections?

Powerline Inspectors often encounter challenges such as working in remote or difficult-to-access locations, dealing with adverse weather conditions, and ensuring personal safety around high-voltage equipment. They must remain vigilant for potential hazards like damaged lines or encroaching vegetation and accurately document findings for maintenance crews. Effective communication with linemen, engineers, and utility managers is essential to coordinate repairs and minimize downtime, making teamwork and adaptability crucial skills in this role.

What are Powerline Inspectors?

Powerline Inspectors are professionals responsible for examining overhead and underground electrical power lines to ensure they are safe, functional, and compliant with regulations. They identify and report potential issues like damaged equipment, vegetation encroachment, or signs of wear and tear that could lead to power outages or safety hazards. Using specialized equipment, such as drones or infrared cameras, Powerline Inspectors may perform visual assessments or thermal scans. Their work helps utility companies maintain reliable electricity service and prevent accidents. Regular inspections are crucial for public safety and efficient operation of the electrical grid.

What is the difference between Powerline Inspector vs Lineman?

AspectPowerline InspectorLineman
CredentialsTypically requires certifications in electrical safety, climbing, and inspection techniquesRequires lineman training, apprenticeships, and often certifications in electrical work and safety
Work EnvironmentPrimarily inspects overhead and underground power lines, often from ground or bucket trucksPerforms installation, maintenance, and repair of power lines, often working at heights and in outdoor environments
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by utility companies for inspection and safety assessmentsEmployed by utility companies for construction, repair, and maintenance of power distribution systems

While both roles work within the utility industry and require safety certifications, Powerline Inspectors focus on inspecting and assessing power lines, often from ground or bucket trucks, whereas Linemen are responsible for installing and repairing power lines directly. The roles are complementary but distinct in daily tasks and responsibilities.

More about Powerline Inspector jobs
What cities are hiring for Powerline Inspector jobs? Cities with the most Powerline Inspector job openings:
What states have the most Powerline Inspector jobs? States with the most job openings for Powerline Inspector jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Powerline Inspector jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Powerline Inspector jobs are:
Powerline Inspector jobs near you

Electric Powerline Inspector ( local candidates )

RennickBarrett Recruiting, INC

El Centro, CA

Other

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

This is a one year contract assignment
OVERVIEW

This is a hands-on, field-based role for someone who knows distribution systems the way a mechanic knows an engine, by sound, by feel, and by pattern recognition.
You'll be out in the system spotting issues early, documenting what matters, and helping keep power flowing safely and reliably in a fast-moving environment.

Experience required (must meet one of the following):

  • Four years of electrical, power line construction, line equipment operations or field electrical engineering experience and qualified Lineman Journeyman or 48 months of validated line construction work experience and a minimum score of 80% on the District Lineman Journeyman test.
    OR

  • Eight years of electric line construction experience including operating electric line trucks, buckets trucks and auxiliary equipment.

DUTIES

  • Patrols and inspects underground and overhead distribution system for physical defects, irregularities and hazardous conditions; opens vaults, switches, padmount transformers and other facilities to identify electrical lines and location as directed.

  • Inspects the need for tree trimming for electric transmission system; maintains related records.

  • Maintains records and logs of activities in the field and meets with supervisor to discuss field related matters; writes periodic reports of observations; prepares notations and rough sketches of infractions, defects and changes; and requests a maintenance crew as needed.

  • Prepares work service on repairs or replacement of equipment regarding transmission or distribution system; notifies power dispatcher on major repairs.

MARGINAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  1. May open and close switches as directed by supervisory personnel.

  2. Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education
  • High school equivalency with supplemental college courses in principles of electricity and mathematics and;
  • Four years of electrical, power line construction, line equipment operations or field electrical engineering experience and qualified Lineman Journeyman or 48 months of validated line construction work experience and a minimum score of 80% on the District Lineman Journeyman test.
  • Dig alert experience


OR

  • Eight years of electric line construction experience including operating electric line trucks, buckets trucks and auxiliary equipment.
  • Dig alert experience
Licensing

  • A valid driver's license issued by the State of California, Department of Motor Vehicles is required.

  • A valid California Class "A" driver license may be required, as determined by supervision for specified employees in this classification.

Why this is exciting opportunity for you!

Power demand is climbing fast in the valley, and the region is actively investing in distribution capacity and reliability upgrades. That means this isn't "watch paint dry" work this is real infrastructure, real field decisions, and real impact every day.
You'll be part of the team that finds issues before they become outages, and helps keep crews pointed at the right fixes.

Apply