Electric Utility Worker Illinois
Introduction
Electric utility worker, or lineman, is a broad job title encompassing many different roles in the energy industry. In general, an electric utility worker is responsible for installing and maintaining power lines throughout Illinois. The main duty of an electric utility worker is to construct lines by setting poles and stringing wires through them. They also repair any damaged power systems as needed.
An electric utility worker’s work environment can vary greatly based on where they are working. Many will work outdoors, but some may do more office work that requires them to spend more time indoors.
Duties
Your duties would include:
- reading blueprints and schematic drawings
- learning to handle high voltage safely
- learning to use tools safely
- inspecting and testing equipment
- maintaining and repairing equipment
- installing and maintaining electrical systems
- performing maintenance on power lines
- operating bucket trucks
Training and certification
Training to become an electric utility worker in Illinois and other states takes anywhere from three to five years, depending on the program you undertake. Regardless of how long it takes you to complete your training, you’ll need to pass a certification test at the end of the process in order to work as a journeyman electrician. The tests vary by state, but generally involve both written and practical work.
During your training and certification period, you’ll learn about topics such as electrical theory, mathematics, wiring and motor controls. You’ll also be able to specialize in a certain field within the industry or learn more about general residential or commercial installation methods. You can earn your training through an apprenticeship program sponsored by either a union or private company. Many community colleges also offer classes that can help get you on track for becoming an electric utility worker in Illinois or another part of the country. Some large companies also have their own internal training centers that are open for hires from outside of their organization.
Employment and salary
As an electric utility worker in Illinois, you can expect to earn between $50,000 and $70,000 per year. This is the average salary range for this profession across the state. As with many professions that require a certification or degree and work experience, there may be a probationary period where you make less than your established rate until you meet certain benchmarks. However, your benefits will be commensurate with those of other new hires in the company. Benefits packages are typically comprehensive and include paid vacation and holidays, health insurance coverage for employees and eligible dependents (including dental coverage), 401k retirement savings plan with company match up to 6%, tuition reimbursement program (up to 100% tuition reimbursement of various costs), free training and certification opportunities through the employer upon hiring or promotion within the organization, as well as other options available on a case-by-case basis according to union agreement or employee preference. In some cases, employers may offer a signing bonus based on financial incentives available at the time of hire or due to other circumstances such as competition with private sector electricity providers or need for applicants with prior experience in electric utility work.
Job outlook
Electric utility workers in Illinois enjoy a healthy job market, with the latest numbers showing an average growth of 6 percent over the next ten years. This is slightly faster than the national average for all jobs, which is expected to grow by 7 percent.
- Job Outlook
- Growth: 6%
- Total Jobs: 1900
Working as an electric utility worker can be a rewarding career.
Working as an electric utility worker (power line installer) can be a rewarding career. You will be working in a field that is both physically and mentally demanding. The wages are good and the benefits, including health care, vacations and probably a pension plan, can be excellent.
You need to have completed high school or GED to take advantage of the training programs available through apprenticeships with labor unions, community colleges, technical schools and other specialized training centers.
Electric utility companies hire most of the power line installers in Illinois. These companies provide career opportunities for those entering the profession as well as providing extensive training programs for people already hired by them.