Massachusetts

Lineworker Massachusetts

Lineworkers are essential to the day-to-day function of our society.

Lineworkers are responsible for installing, maintaining and repairing power lines that carry electricity from the source of generation to buildings and homes. Lineworkers install, maintain and repair telephone lines. They work on electrical equipment that distributes power at the street level or in buildings, transformers and generators that regulate voltage and make sure electric current is compatible with household appliances. Lineworkers also install CATV (cable TV) cables.

Lineworkers are essential to the day-to-day function of our society. They provide us with electricity for lights, heating/cooling, computers, televisions etc., without which life as we know it would not exist. Lineworkers are also the first responders in the event of a disaster; they protect human safety by restoring power after storms, floods etc., minimize property damage by quickly restoring electrical service and prevent further damage by deactivating circuits and transformers that have been damaged.

Most power line worker jobs require on the job training and an apprenticeship.

  • Most power line worker jobs require a combination of classroom training and on-the-job training. Many workers learn their skills through apprenticeships, which usually take 3 to 5 years to complete.
  • To become an apprentice, you will need a high school diploma or GED. You must also have basic math, reading and communication skills. Apprenticeship programs are available at community colleges and trade schools throughout the country.
  • On-the-job training involves hands-on learning in real work environments under the guidance of experienced electric line workers who teach you how to safely and effectively construct, maintain and repair power lines. Common tasks include setting poles, stringing wire and installing insulators and transformers on wires.

Many lineworker training programs are available at community colleges across Massachusetts.

There are training programs in Massachusetts at the following schools:

  • Blackstone Valley Community College
  • Quinsigamond Community College
  • Holyoke Community College

Certified lineworker training schools offer instruction for those interested in working in the field.

For those who wish to become a certified lineworker, there are several training schools that offer certificates, degrees and other types of instruction. During this training time, you will learn the industry standards and safety protocols, as well as other important concepts related to working in the field.

Certified Lineworker Training Schools and Programs

Most lineworker training schools are affiliated with organizations or companies that hire students once they have completed their program. If you choose to attend one of these schools, here is what you can expect:

  • You can receive a certificate or degree after attending classes for one year or less. Some programs may last longer because they include an apprenticeship component.
  • Some schools have prerequisite requirements; however, most do not require more than a high school diploma or GED.
  • The majority of programs will include safety certification courses that are required by employers. These courses ensure that all students understand safe practices before entering the field.

Lineworkers generally work for electric utility or telecommunications companies.

Potential employers of lineworkers include:

  • Electric utility companies, which provide power to homes and businesses
  • Telecommunications companies, which provide services like Internet access, telephone and cable television service
  • Other companies that require electrical or telecommunications skills, like construction firms or contractors

Lineworker testing is often required before you can start an apprenticeship program.

In order to determine your qualifications for an apprenticeship, a lineworker testing program is often required. These tests often include both general aptitude and technical knowledge in electrical theory. Aptitude tests are usually multiple choice. They are administered online and are timed. The good news is they’re typically free and can be taken multiple times with no limit on frequency or tries.

Technical knowledge may vary based on the location where you want to work as an apprentice lineman because apprenticeship programs may have different requirements for entry-level positions. You can visit their websites for specific questions about what the test covers and any recommended study material, but some common areas of focus include: wiring diagrams, basic math calculations involving resistance, capacitance, conductance, inductance and voltage drop; specific methods of service terminations; utility safety practices including flagging procedures, safe climbing techniques and line clearance practices; overhead conductor terminology including types of hardware used in overhead construction; types of underground cables used by linemen; equipment used by linemen such as live line tools, climbing gear and hand tools; National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements related to grounding practices and bonding requirements, such as bond jumpers at poles or substation structures

Lineworker benefits include insurance coverage, paid vacation time, and a pension plan.

  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Disability insurance
  • Vacation time
  • Retirement or pension plan

While some companies offer additional benefits like education assistance, housing assistance and opportunities for career advancement, you will have to contact the company where you are employed to find out what specific benefits they offer.

A lineworker salary varies greatly depending on experience. The more certifications you have, the more opportunities you’ll have to make money.

As a lineworker, you will be working primarily outdoors, most often atop utility poles and power lines. A lineworker salary varies greatly depending on experience. The more certifications you have, the more opportunities you’ll have to make money. Lineworkers are paid per job and can make as much as $30/hour for jobs that entail repairing or installing high-voltage lines. Greater responsibilities equal greater pay!

Most electric companies pay their employees an hourly wage. Most work 40 hours a week, but some work 50 or 60. You might earn $15 to $25 or more per hour based on your skills and experience. It’s important to remember that how much a lineworker makes depends largely on how many hours they work in a given year, so if you have a knack for making repairs quickly and efficiently, your profit potential increases significantly!

If you want to become a lineworker, there are many resources available to you in Massachusetts.

  • Salaries for lineworkers in Massachusetts are high. The average wage for a utility lineman is $37.65 an hour, with the highest ten percent of earners making over $50 per hour.
  • Benefits are excellent; many utilities offer a 401K, healthcare, and pension benefits to their employees.
  • Job growth is strong; as lineworker is one of the fastest growing occupations in the US, demand will continue to increase as more workers retire and new opportunities open up.
  • Training can be done at vocational or technical schools and community colleges. Some utilities also offer apprenticeship programs that lead to a journeyman certification that counts toward college credit at community colleges in Massachusetts.*