B Lineman - Overhead (AEP)
Kingsport, TN · On-site
Equal Opportunity Employer - Minorities/Females/Veterans/Disabled VA Approved Apprenticeship ... as telecommunications companies with a growing portfolio of turnkey renewable projects. We work ...
B Lineman - Overhead (AEP)
Kingsport, TN · On-site
Equal Opportunity Employer - Minorities/Females/Veterans/Disabled VA Approved Apprenticeship ... as telecommunications companies with a growing portfolio of turnkey renewable projects. We work ...
Telecommunications Apprentice information
See Tennessee salary details
$10.04 - $11.44
1% of jobs
$11.44 - $12.85
4% of jobs
$12.85 - $14.26
12% of jobs
$14.94 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$14.26 - $15.67
16% of jobs
The median wage is $16.58 / hr.
$15.67 - $17.08
26% of jobs
$17.08 - $18.49
14% of jobs
$18.73 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$18.49 - $19.89
11% of jobs
$19.89 - $21.30
5% of jobs
$21.30 - $22.71
5% of jobs
$22.71 - $24.12
4% of jobs
$24.12 - $25.53
1% of jobs
$10
$17
$25
How much do telecommunications apprentice jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for telecommunications apprentice in Tennessee is $17.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $19.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a telecommunications apprentice?
To thrive as a Telecommunications Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of electrical systems, good manual dexterity, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand tools, cable testers, and safety protocols is common, and certifications like OSHA or CompTIA Network+ can be beneficial. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate and work well in a team are important soft skills. These competencies ensure safe, precise installation and maintenance of telecom systems, supporting reliable network infrastructure.
What is a telecommunications apprentice?
Telecommunications Apprentices are entry-level workers who assist in the installation, maintenance, and repair of communication systems, such as phone lines, internet cables, and data networks. They work under the supervision of experienced technicians or engineers while learning the trade. Apprenticeships typically combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction, allowing apprentices to gain practical skills and industry knowledge. This role is a pathway to becoming a fully qualified telecommunications technician.
What is the difference between Telecommunications Apprentice vs Telecommunications Technician?
| Aspect | Telecommunications Apprentice | Telecommunications Technician |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | On-the-job training, sometimes certifications | Certifications often required (e.g., CompTIA, industry-specific) |
| Work Environment | Training sites, fieldwork, supervised tasks | Fieldwork, installation sites, maintenance facilities |
| Industry Usage | Entry-level role, learning phase | Skilled worker, responsible for installation and repair |
The Telecommunications Apprentice is an entry-level position focused on learning and gaining hands-on experience under supervision. In contrast, the Telecommunications Technician is a more experienced role responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing telecommunications systems. Apprentices typically work under guidance, while technicians operate independently with relevant certifications and skills.
What types of hands-on tasks can a telecommunications apprentice expect to work on during their training?
As a Telecommunications Apprentice, you will frequently assist with installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting a variety of communication systems, including cabling, network equipment, and telephony hardware. Under the supervision of experienced technicians, apprentices often learn to use specialized tools, interpret technical diagrams, and ensure that systems comply with safety and industry standards. You may also participate in team projects, gaining exposure to both in-field and customer-facing tasks, which helps build a well-rounded skill set for future advancement.
How to get into telecommunications apprentice with no experience?
To become a telecommunications apprentice with no experience, focus on gaining basic technical skills through online courses or certifications related to networking and cabling. Many programs accept applicants without prior experience and provide on-the-job training, so applying to entry-level apprenticeships or trainee positions is a common pathway.
What are the most commonly searched types of Telecommunications jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Telecommunications jobs in Tennessee are:
Job description
Position Summary: The Class B Lineman - Overhead is a semi-skilled position in the construction, maintenance and repair of electrical overhead distribution systems. This position works at various locations and 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.
- Strings overhead wire.
- Sets poles and anchors.
- Installs transformers, lightening arrestors, cutouts, crossarms, insulators, switches and switchgear.
- Troubleshoots in primary and secondary systems.
- Replaces 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.
- Able to perform rigorous physical labor.
- Must be able to identify primary and secondary voltage on a circuit.
- Must be familiar with induced voltage.
- Understands grounding procedures.
- Understands how to use a load buster tool.
- Capable of installing and hooking up a single phase transformer.
- Capable of safely setting a pole.
- Must understand equipment set up and grounding.
- 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 tying in a primary conductor.
- Must be able to climb different types of structures (wood, steel, etc.) and possess the necessary tools to do so.
- Understands how to phase out a line using phasing sticks.
- Understands how to obtain a one shot on a recloser.
- Must be able to effectively conduct a pre-job or tailgate briefing.
- Must be able to safely perform a reconductoring job.
- Willingness to glove/work live high voltage distribution power lines.
- Capable of safely installing and removing mechanical jumpers.
- Must be able to work outside, frequently in inclement weather.
Minimum Requirements:
- 5-year minimum of recent field experience.
- Able to read and communicate effectively in English.
- Able to obtain a Commercial Driver's License permit within 60 days of employment.
- A Commercial Driver's License is preferred.
- Able to travel long distances on short notice, when required.
- Able to work for extended periods in various locations, when required.
- Able to lift in excess of 50 lbs.
- Able to properly inspect rubber goods and PPE.
- 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 fingers, 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 UsFounded 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