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Utility Line Clearance Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Davey Tree Surgery, a Davey Company, is currently looking to add a dynamic utility foreperson/foreman to our passionate team of utility line clearance professionals. Your office is outdoors, and you ...

Davey Tree Surgery, a Davey Company, is currently looking to add a dynamic utility foreperson/foreman to our passionate team of utility line clearance professionals. Your office is outdoors, and you ...

What We Are Looking For TSU is seeking a Ground Person Level 1 to support vegetation management and utility line clearance operations. This entry-level position assists crews with brush handling ...

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FOREMAN JOURNEYMAN CLIMBER

Oroville, CA · On-site

$30 - $45.76/hr

Description The Climber Foreman - Journeyman at Greentek Inc. plays a crucial role in line clearance tree trimming, ensuring the safe management of vegetation near power lines and utility ...

Must meet Cal/OSHA Title 8 requirements for line clearance tree trimming (18 months experience). Must currently possess and maintain certification as a "Certified Arborist" issued by the ...

Utility Arborist

Redding, CA · On-site

$104K/yr

Must meet Cal/OSHA Title 8 requirements for line clearance tree trimming (18 months experience). Must currently possess and maintain certification as a "Certified Arborist" issued by the ...

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Utility Line Clearance information

See California salary details

$9

$19

$43

How much do utility line clearance jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility line clearance in California is $19.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the daily responsibilities of a utility line clearance?

Utility Line Clearance professionals typically spend their days inspecting power line corridors, trimming or removing trees and vegetation that interfere with electrical lines, and operating specialized equipment such as chainsaws and bucket trucks. They work closely with a crew to maintain safety standards and communicate with utility company representatives to prioritize critical areas. Adhering to established safety procedures is essential, as the role involves working at heights and near energized lines. Daily tasks may also include site clean-up and record-keeping to ensure compliance with local and federal regulations.

What is a utility line clearance?

A Utility Line Clearance job involves trimming or removing trees and vegetation near power lines to prevent outages and ensure public safety. Workers use specialized equipment like chainsaws, bucket trucks, and climbing harnesses to access hard-to-reach areas. They must follow strict safety protocols and industry regulations to avoid electrical hazards. This job often requires working outdoors in various weather conditions and collaborating with utility companies or municipalities. Proper training and certification are typically needed to perform this work safely and effectively.

What skills and qualifications are needed for utility line clearance?

To thrive in Utility Line Clearance, you need strong skills in tree trimming, vegetation management, and an understanding of electrical safety standards, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with chainsaws, bucket trucks, climbing gear, and certifications such as OSHA safety training or a commercial driver's license (CDL) are commonly required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills that elevate performance in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient work near power lines and contribute to uninterrupted utility services.

What are the most commonly searched types of Utility Line Clearance jobs in California?

The most popular types of Utility Line Clearance jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Utility Line Clearance jobs in California?

For Utility Line Clearance jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Utility Line Clearance jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Utility Line Clearance jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Utility Line Clearance jobs?

Cities in California with the most Utility Line Clearance job openings:

Infographic showing various Utility Line Clearance job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,528 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Vegetation Management Inspector (VMI)

Crafted Staff

Santa Rosa, CA • On-site

$42.78 - $52.87/hr

Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Overview

We're hiring Vegetation Management Inspectors (VMI) to patrol utility right-of-way (ROW) areas and identify hazardous vegetation (trees/brush) along utility lines. This is a W2, union position (IBEW Local 1245).

If you have field experience around utility ROW, line clearance operations, forestry/outdoor field work, or inspection/patrol-style workand you want a role that's more about observation, documentation, and coordination than heavy physical laborthis role is a strong fit.

What you'll do

Patrol assigned utility circuits/lines to identify hazardous trees/brush and vegetation conditions that could impact reliability or safety

Perform identification, inspection, and evaluation of vegetation along utility lines

Document and submit inspection results with clear recommendations

Coordinate with vegetation/tree clearance crews (may plan, direct, and coordinate crew activities as assigned)

Discuss and help resolve access issues needed for line-clearance work

Serve as a liaison between clients, field crews, and customers as needed

Maintain a safety-first mindset and professional communication in the field

What we're looking for

Required

1+ year of relevant field experience (utility/ROW vegetation, line clearance support, forestry field work, field inspections, or similar)

Ability to work independently in the field and manage a daily route/workload

Strong attention to detail and ability to produce accurate, consistent documentation

Clear communication skills (you can explain what you're seeing and what needs to happen next)

Valid driver's license and ability to operate a company vehicle

Preferred

Prior experience as a vegetation management inspector or in utility ROW/line clearance operations

Comfort working around utility infrastructure and following safety requirements

Pay & benefits

Hourly pay: $42.78$52.87 (based on level/experience)

Union benefits package (paid by employer): medical, dental, vision, AD&D, and term life insurance

Company vehicle for business use

Company cell phone

Subsistence: $50/day worked

Per diem: up to $100/day (as eligible)

Work environment & physical requirements

Field-based work; expect regular driving and outdoor work in varying terrain and weather

Must be able to safely perform job duties in the field (walking uneven ground, entering/exiting vehicle frequently, etc.)

Pre-employment requirements

Employment is contingent upon satisfactorily passing applicable drug screening and background check.

Equal opportunity employer

We are an equal opportunity employer and consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

How to apply

Apply with your resume and a brief summary of your relevant experience (utility/ROW, line clearance, forestry field work, inspections, or similar).