1

Utility Pole Inspector Jobs in Harlingen, TX (NOW HIRING)

Maintenance III

Edinburg, TX · On-site

$37K/yr

Work may involve maintaining and repairing buildings, utility systems, and stationary equipment ... Performs inspections of equipment, operating machinery, systems, and building accessories and ...

Maintenance II

Edinburg, TX · On-site

$32K/yr

Work may involve maintaining and repairing buildings, utility systems, and stationary equipment ... Performs inspections of equipment, operating machinery, systems, and building accessories and ...

Utility Pole Inspector information

See Harlingen, TX salary details

$10

$19

$31

How much do utility pole inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility pole inspector in Harlingen, TX is $19.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.71 and $21.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 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.

What cities near Harlingen, TX are hiring for Utility Pole Inspector jobs?

Cities near Harlingen, TX with the most Utility Pole Inspector job openings:

Infographic showing various Utility Pole Inspector job openings in Harlingen, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,908 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Design Technician (Electric Utilities)

EN Engineering LLC

Edinburg, TX • Hybrid

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

This position is ideal for a technician who enjoys hands-on field work and developing utility design solutions. This is a non-Engineer fielding and design role requiring periodic travel to client sites to gather pole data, inspect infrastructure, and ensure design accuracy.

What You'll Do

  • Perform field visits to collect data on utility poles and electrical infrastructure, ensuring accuracy for design packages.
  • Design overhead and underground electric distribution systems, preparing construction drawings, bills of materials, and documentation.
  • Provide calculations such as pole loading, voltage drop, easement validation, permitting requirements, and cost estimating.
  • Conduct pole analysis modeling, develop materials lists, perform GIS reviews, and prepare or update design prints.
  • Review client records, GIS data, and field information to identify conflicts, verify accuracy, and incorporate updates.
  • Contribute to design projects including data collection, drafting, and utility design standards.
  • Manage multiple projects while meeting quality, schedule, and client expectations.
  • Apply company safety rules, client standards, and regulatory requirements (RUS, NESC, permitting).
  • Work independently and with others, demonstrating strong communication and documentation practices.

A successful candidate will thrive in an environment that values the following work approaches:

  • Resilient and self-motivated: You are always striving to build upon previous successes and stretch comfort zones to learn new skills.
  • Detail and quality oriented: You’ll develop skills reading and interpreting technical documentation including blueprints, construction specifications, etc.
  • Collaborative: Customer service and team collaboration are essential. When we all succeed, we’re better for it!

Required Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Computer skills
  • Must have valid Driver’s License and personal vehicle and willingness to travel as needed for fielding requirements (mileage reimbursement applies)

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Advanced Degree in Technical related field
  • Design skills including AutoCAD or Microstation
  • Experience working in Electric Distribution/Utilities environment

What We Offer:

  • A supportive and inclusive work environment that values diversity and encourages innovation.
  • Opportunities for professional growth and career development.
  • Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including generous paid time off, retirement program with a company match, tuition reimbursement, and flexible work schedules.

Why Join Us?

At ENTRUST Solutions Group, we are a community of over 3,000 dedicated professionals committed to our clients and each other. As an ENR Top 100 company, we provide comprehensive engineering, consulting, and automation services to various industries, including gas and electric utilities, telecommunication service providers, pipeline operators, and industrial companies. We are a forward-thinking organization dedicated to leveraging cutting-edge technology to drive success. We are committed to fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.

We believe in fostering a culture of inclusivity and respect, where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives. If you are passionate about innovation, sustainability and community impact and looking for a place to grow your career, we would love to hear from you!

Explore More Opportunities: Not quite the right fit? Check out all our openings at ENTRUST Solutions Group Careers.

To learn more about ENTRUST Benefits and Culture, please visit our company LinkedIn page and follow us at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/entrustsolutionsgroup

ENTRUST Solutions Group is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, disability status, or any other applicable characteristics protected by law.

Headhunters and recruitment agencies may not submit resumes/CVs through this website or directly to managers. ENTRUST does not accept unsolicited headhunter or agency resumes and will not pay fees to any third-party agency or company that does not have a signed agreement with ENTRUST Solutions Group.

#LI-KM2 #LI-Hybrid