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Utility Pole Inspector Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

Peak Utility Services Group

Hydrovac Operator

New Boston, MI · On-site

$17.25 - $19.75/hr

Perform pre and post-trip inspections, as well as routine maintenance * Performing Required Daily Vacuum Excavation Tasks: * Potholing Existing Underground Utilities for HDD Work * Pole Holes ...

Telegenix Splicing Llc

Aerial Lineman

Detroit, MI · On-site

$1.5K - $2.5K/wk

New Cable Installs, Pole Transfers, Strand Building, Cable Hanging, Lashing Over, Wreck Out, and ... to climb wooded utility poles and perform line work off hooks · Experienced in Bucket Truck ...

Telegenix Splicing Llc

Aerial Lineman

Detroit, MI · On-site

$1.5K - $2.5K/wk

New Cable Installs, Pole Transfers, Strand Building, Cable Hanging, Lashing Over, Wreck Out, and ... to climb wooded utility poles and perform line work off hooks · Experienced in Bucket Truck ...

Superior Pipeline Services

Hydrovac Operator

New Boston, MI · On-site

$17.25 - $19.75/hr

Perform pre and post-trip inspections, as well as routine maintenance * Performing Required Daily Vacuum Excavation Tasks: * Potholing Existing Underground Utilities for HDD Work * Pole Holes ...

All JobsUtility Pole Inspector JobsUtility Pole Inspector Jobs in Detroit, MI

Utility Pole Inspector information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$9

$19

$31

How much do utility pole inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility pole inspector in Detroit, MI is $19.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.57 and $21.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What type of inspectors make the most money?

Utility pole inspectors with specialized skills, such as senior inspectors or those with certifications in electrical safety or advanced inspection techniques, tend to earn higher salaries. Supervisory or managerial roles in utility inspection also typically offer higher pay. Experience, certifications, and the complexity of the inspection environment influence earning potential.

What is the difference between Utility Pole Inspector vs Line Locator?

AspectUtility Pole InspectorLine Locator
Required CertificationsTypically OSHA safety training, industry-specific certificationsOSHA safety training, utility marking certifications
Work EnvironmentInspecting utility poles outdoors, climbing, and assessing structural integrityLocating underground or overhead lines, often outdoors or in utility rights-of-way
Employer & Industry UsageElectric, telecommunications, and utility companiesUtility companies, contractors, and construction firms
Common Search & ComparisonUtility Pole Inspector vs Line Locator

The Utility Pole Inspector and Line Locator roles both operate within the utility industry and require safety certifications. While the Utility Pole Inspector focuses on inspecting and assessing the condition of utility poles, the Line Locator specializes in identifying underground or overhead utility lines. Both jobs are essential for safe and efficient utility maintenance, often working outdoors in similar environments, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

How to become a utility inspector?

To become a utility pole inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with knowledge of electrical systems and safety procedures. Relevant experience in utility work or construction, along with certifications such as OSHA safety training, can improve job prospects. Strong attention to detail and the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions are also important.

Do pipeline inspectors make good money?

Pipeline inspectors typically earn a competitive salary, with wages varying based on experience, certifications, and location. The job often requires knowledge of safety standards, inspection tools, and sometimes specialized certifications, which can influence earning potential.

What does a pole inspector do?

A pole inspector evaluates utility poles to ensure they are structurally sound and safe for electrical or communication lines. They inspect for damage, decay, or defects, often using tools like drones or climbing equipment, and may recommend repairs or replacements to prevent outages or hazards.

What are some common challenges Utility Pole Inspectors face in the field, and how can they be addressed?

Utility Pole Inspectors often work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions and terrains, which can present physical challenges such as navigating rough ground or dealing with extreme temperatures. Another common challenge is accurately identifying and documenting issues like decay, hardware faults, or safety hazards, which requires attention to detail and strong observational skills. Communication with utility companies and crews is also critical, as inspectors must report findings clearly and sometimes coordinate urgent repairs. To address these challenges, inspectors typically use specialized equipment and digital tools, receive safety training, and follow established inspection protocols to ensure efficiency and safety.

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

To thrive as a Utility Pole Inspector, you need a solid understanding of utility infrastructure, safety standards, and inspection protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant field experience. Familiarity with inspection software, GPS devices, and digital data entry tools is typically required. Attention to detail, strong observational skills, and effective communication help inspectors accurately assess pole conditions and report findings. These skills ensure the safety, reliability, and regulatory compliance of utility networks.

What does a Utility Pole Inspector do?

A Utility Pole Inspector is responsible for examining utility poles, such as those used for electricity or telecommunications, to ensure they are safe and structurally sound. Their duties include visually inspecting poles for decay, damage, and hazards, as well as testing the wood or material integrity. Inspectors document their findings, recommend repairs or replacements, and help utility companies maintain a safe and reliable infrastructure. This role often requires working outdoors in various weather conditions and traveling between inspection sites.

What Does a Utility Pole Inspector Do?

As a utility pole inspector, your duties are to lead a crew of field workers in providing routine maintenance and remedial treatment of wood poles used to carry power lines and other above-ground utility lines. You identify any decay or defects with poles and oversee crews as they replace defective utility poles. To accomplish your responsibilities as a utility pole inspector, you must have knowledge of a variety of hand tools and specialized equipment used for assessment and replacement purposes.

More about Utility Pole Inspector jobs
What are popular job titles related to Utility Pole Inspector jobs in Detroit, MI? For Utility Pole Inspector jobs in Detroit, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Utility Pole Inspector jobs in Detroit, MI look for? The top searched job categories for Utility Pole Inspector jobs in Detroit, MI are:
Utility Pole Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Utility Pole Inspector job openings in Detroit, MI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,521 per year, or $19 per hour.
Utility Pole Inspector

Utility Pole Inspector

Metro Engineering Solutions LLC

Northville, MI • On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 hours ago

Job description

Description:

Metro Engineering Solutions, LLC (“MES”) is looking for a Utility Pole Inspector to join our team! MES is a multifaceted utility and telecommunications engineering firm serving clients throughout the Midwest.


DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Consistently operate in a safe and efficient manner while adhering to all safety protocols and wearing required PPE.
  • Support excavation activities by manually digging 18-inch holes around utility poles as needed.
  • Successfully complete all required training and testing necessary to obtain a MDARD pesticide applicator license.
  • Inspect and treat utility poles with pesticide applications as part of the maintenance process, which includes: Swinging a hammer 50+ times per day, Drilling into and probing the interior of wood utility poles, Chipping away and removing decayed wood from the surface of poles.
  • Accurately collect field data and photographs for processing in GIS platforms.
  • Assist with transporting equipment to job sites, including carrying up to 30 lbs for distances of 150 feet or more.
  • Perform physically demanding manual labor throughout the workday.
  • Carry out additional tasks and responsibilities as directed by the Project Manager to support project goals.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

  • Primarily work outdoors, must be able to work in extreme heat and cold.
  • Regularly required to walk for long distances.
  • Frequently lifts or move objects up to 50 pounds.
  • Climb ladders, access and inspect utility infrastructure and cables by climbing down through manhole covered are
  • Travel within the Midwest States (Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, Illinois, and Wisconsin).


COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

  • Compensation ranges between $20.00 to $22.00 per hour, depending on experience.
  • Medical benefits package that includes medical & prescription coverage, dental, and vision plans for employees and their qualifying family members (eligible after 90 days employment), which is 100% covered by the employer.
  • Retirement benefits including a 401(k) plan with up to 4% employer match (eligible after 6 months of employment), which is 100% fully vested on day one.
  • Group term life insurance and long-term disability offered to eligible employees.
  • Additional voluntary benefits (Accident, Critical Illness, Short-Term Disability, HFSA and DCA, Life and AD&D) offered to eligible employees.
  • Holiday pay as well as PTO available after 120 days of employment. Additional PTO vesting over time.
  • Employee Assistance Program including counseling, coaching and financial resources.

Metro Engineering Solutions, LLC is an equal opportunity employer, committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace.

Requirements:
  • High School diploma and/or equivalent combination of education & experience is preferred.
  • Willing to travel away from home to various job locations when necessary.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age or older.
  • Ability to work on uneven/rugged terrain and in many different element of weather.
  • Must have reliable transportation.
  • Ability to understand basic principles of public and private utilities.


Metro Engineering Solutions provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for

employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age,

disability, genetic information, marital status, ancestry or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable

federal, state and local laws. Metro Engineering Solutions complies with applicable state and local laws governing

nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all

terms and conditions of employment, including hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer,

leaves of absence, compensation and training.

Metro Engineering Solutions expressly prohibits any form of unlawful employee harassment based on race, color,

religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, genetic information, disability or veteran status. Improper

interference with the ability of Metro Engineering Solutions employees to perform their expected job duties is

absolutely not tolerated.