What is the difference between a lineman and an electrician

Licenses may be regulated by voltage level, with different requirements and standards for workers who only deal with wiring under 30 volts versus workers routinely dealing with kV or more. Apprenticeship programs typically last four years or more for linemen. Although apprenticeships are available directly through utilities companies or electrical contractors, unions and cooperative non-profit corporations administer most apprenticeship programs.

Becoming a lineman also require an OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Administration hour Transmission and Distribution certification , and potentially, other local or regional certifications. In this way, they are exposed to actual working conditions in addition to their formal classroom education, and can gradually be introduced to actual high-wire work as they learn.

Technical schools are a common route into electrical work for inside wiremen. Two-year community colleges may offer associates degrees in electrical engineering, which serve as a strong springboard into the industry. Some types of electrician positions may require special certifications; marine electricians, for example, typically need an ABYC American Boating and Yachting Council certification to get a job in their field.

Electrician apprentices usually have an opportunity to perform hands-on work directly related to their area of specialization, whether industrial, commercial, residential or low voltage. Until they become journeymen, however, their work will be under close scrutiny from their senior partners.

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that linemen jobs will increase at about the average rate 6 percent per year over the next decade. However, due to the relatively high pay, job security, and low formal education requirements, getting a job as a lineman can be a very competitive process.

Because of the demanding nature of the work and the odd hours, outside linemen tend to be better compensated than wiremen. Regardless of location, however, overtime can push those numbers up by fifty percent or more, well into the six-figures.

Job growth is expected to be strong in the field, with a 14 percent year-over-year increase projected for the next decade. Related: Union vs. Since electricians and linemen may perform different duties, require different training and work in different environments, the salary for each position varies.

Electricians may also be eligible for benefits depending on the organization they work for. Some of the most common benefits electricians may receive include:. Linemen may also be eligible for benefits depending on the organization they work for. Some of the most common benefits linemen may receive include:.

The pay for both professions can also vary depending on experience, education level and training. Find jobs. Company reviews. Find salaries. Upload your resume. Sign in. Finding a Job. What is an electrician? What is a lineman? Differences between an electrician and a lineman. Installing electrical systems and wiring Troubleshooting electrical issues Conducting routine maintenance and testing Ensuring electrical systems comply with the manufacturer guidelines Repairing electrical systems and components Inspecting transformers, circuit breakers and other electrical components Performing assessments and developing quotes for clients in need of installation services or repairs Working with other professionals on building and refurbishment projects.

Installing and replacing poles for power lines Attaching wire conductors and cables between buildings and poles Maintaining and repairing power lines Installing meters and service drops Connecting new power lines Performing tests to troubleshoot issues with power lines Restoring fallen power lines. Educational requirements and certifications. Career advancement. Knowledge of programmable logic controllers Understanding of the National Electric Code Experience with power tools and hand tools Generator repair skills Commercial electrician or construction experience Ability to troubleshoot electrical issues Knowledge of high-voltage and low-voltage systems Ability to read schematics.

Work environment. Residential homes Commercial buildings Businesses Public buildings Industrial settings. Salary and benefits. Life insurance Dental insurance Health insurance k Employee discount Professional development assistance Tuition reimbursement Paid time off Parental leave Loan repayment programs Relocation assistance Employee referral program.

Linemen also called Linesmen UK , lineworkers, powerline technicians are Electricians who work primarily outside. They are responsible for installing and maintaining power transmission lines as well as installing and maintaining telephone, TV, and fiber optic cables. Their duties include fixing broken power and telephone lines, repairing and replacing utility pole transformers.

They often need to climb the pole or use a bucket truck in order to reach what they need. Linemen work outdoors, while electricians primarily work inside.

Both jobs come with some risks for injury, but working as a line repairer or installer is potentially more dangerous. A lineman has to go to great heights to do the work and then handle high voltage, often live lines. This type of work can be safe, but there is also a very serious risk of falls and electrocution. Additionally, because the work is done outside, linemen often work in difficult weather conditions, including wet or cold, snowy and icy, and hot weather.

Because of the risks and the challenging work environment, the average salary is higher for linesmen. The top-earning linemen in the U.