Indiana

Utility Line Worker Indiana

Utility Line Workers maintain the lines and equipment associated with electrical and telecom.

  • Utility line workers maintain the lines and equipment associated with the electrical, telecom and water companies.
  • Workers are divided into two groups: those who maintain power lines and equipment, and those who work on telephone and cable television lines.
  • Electrical line workers have many job titles, including transmission and distribution line worker, substation maintainer, substation construction worker, meter reader or service technician.
  • For example, a service technician may handle basic repairs to residential customers’ home services; install fuses; repair transformers; install appliances such as air conditioners or washers; or test meters for accuracy.
  • A meter reader may read electric meters for billing purposes using electronic scanning devices.
  • Working conditions depend on the industry in which a utility line worker is employed.
  • In addition to operating heavy machinery such as aerial lifts or bucket trucks, electrical power linemen must climb poles carrying up to 80 pounds of equipment while working outside in all kinds of weather conditions.

First, identify what you want to do, who you want to work for, and then research the requirements for that job.

The first step toward starting a new career is to determine what kind of job you want to do, and for whom. This will help you identify the required education and training. You can then research your options.

If you already know what type of utility line worker job you want, use that as your starting point. Look at jobs in similar industries or those with similar responsibilities to find out which qualifications they require.

If you’re not sure where to start, consider the following:

  • What skills do I have?
  • Do I need more training or education? If so, where can I get it?
  • What kinds of jobs are available in my area? Can I apply for them now or do I need more experience or skills?

Line worker apprenticeships commonly require a high school diploma or GED, at least 18 years of age, a valid driver’s license, minimal vision requirements (20/40 vision without correction), and the ability to pass basic math and reading tests.

Depending on the state, line worker apprenticeships commonly require a high school diploma or GED, at least 18 years of age, a valid driver’s license, minimal vision requirements (20/40 vision without correction), and the ability to pass basic math and reading tests.

The first step to becoming an apprentice is finding an employer willing to take you in, which means you’ll need to be proactive about getting your name out there. Talk to people in your community who currently work in the electric utility industry. Ask them how they got their start and if they are familiar with any apprenticeships that might be available.

Training will be provided on the job by experienced line workers.

Training is a required part of working as an electrical power line worker. The training can be provided by the utility company or at a training center. Often, the training is paid, but you may have to pay back the money if you leave before the agreed-upon time period.

In either case, experienced electrical power line workers provide hands-on training and classroom instruction in topics such as basic electricity, transmission and distribution system operation, how to read engineering drawings of overhead and underground distribution systems, how to safely climb poles using various climbing belts and straps, how to install and maintain overhead lines using wire stringing equipment and pole guns, how to install underground cable using directional boring equipment and plowing devices, how to operate bucket trucks with safety in mind at all times while carrying tools on your body while climbing up ladders attached to the bucket truck (poles are only climbed when necessary), first aid as related specifically to electrical hazards encountered on job sites such as shock trauma from downed power lines (electrical injuries), OSHA regulations pertaining specifically to techniques that reduce chances of electrocution on any given job site.

Electric utility line workers must demonstrate their knowledge of safety and industry standards through testing administered by the state or federal government, or both.

As a utility lineman you must ensure your own safety and the safety of those around you at all times. As a result, many states require applicants to demonstrate their knowledge of industry and safety standards by passing both state and federal testing procedures required for the field. Applicants are typically notified of the specific tests they should take when applying for work in this field, as different areas may have unique requirements. Licensure is typically granted upon passing these examinations, which must be renewed periodically.

While benefits vary between employers, most utility line workers can expect medical coverage, pension contributions, paid vacation time and sick leave.

  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Disability insurance
  • Pension
  • Retirement plan
  • Adoption assistance
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Paid time off
  • Paid holidays
  • Maternity and paternity leave
  • Employee discounts

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary of power line workers was $65,380 as of May 2016; that means half earned more than that amount and half earned less than that amount.

Most utility line workers can expect medical coverage, pension contributions, paid vacation time and sick leave. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary of power line workers was $65,380 as of May 2016; that means half earned more than that amount and half earned less than that amount.

The BLS expects employment of electrical power-line installers and repairers to grow 13% from 2016 to 2026.

Electric power-line installers and repairers should find ample employment opportunities in the years ahead. Job growth is expected to be 13% from 2016 to 2026, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This rate of growth is faster than average for all occupations, which is 7%. The BLS states that this higher-than-average rate of job growth will result from the increasing demand for electricity and the need to upgrade aging power lines, equipment and structures

To become a Utility Line Worker in Indiana you must go through training for certification in your chosen field

To become a Utility Line Worker in Indiana, you must go through training to become certified in your chosen field. There are several options for training to become a Utility Line Worker.

  • You may receive on-the-job training when you are hired by an employer.
  • You may attend school at a trade school or community college that offers courses in electricity or telecommunications, and apply your credits toward the necessary certificates.
  • You may attend classes at a training center that specializes in utility line worker instruction; these centers offer programs from basic electrical instruction all the way up to master electrician certification and beyond.
  • The electric utility companies have their own schools for training their workers; many of these utilities will pay for your education if you have not completed high school and agree to work for them for a period of time after graduation from their program. Check with individual Indiana utilities to find out if this option is available to you.
  • The telecommunications companies also offer apprenticeship programs which will pay the cost of your education as long as you agree to work for them after graduation from their program; check with individual Indiana telecommunications companies to see if they offer such an apprenticeship program, and whether they expect any service contract in return for paying your tuition costs