Power Line Installers
Description OES Code: 85723
Line installers, or line erectors, install new lines by constructing utility poles, towers, and underground trenches to carry the wires and cables. Line erectors use a variety of construction equipment including digger derricks, trenchers, cable plows, and borers. Digger derricks are trucks equipped with augers and cranes; augers dig holes in the ground, and cranes set utility poles in place. Trenchers, cable plows, and borers cut openings in the earth for laying underground cables.

Wages, California
Entry-Level Hourly Wage $17.28
25th Percentile $22.88
50th Percentile $26.74
75th Percentile $30.78

Wages by California County
• OES Survey
• CCOIS Survey

Hours & Benefits
Many line installers and repairers work a 40-hour week; however, emergencies may require overtime work. For example, when severe weather damages electrical and communications lines, line installers and repairers may work long and irregular hours to restore service.

Employment Trends, California
Employment 1998 7,300
Projected Employment 2008 8,400
Percent Change 1998-2008 15.1%
Separations 1998-2008 1,800

Employment Trends by California County

Working Conditions
Line installers and repairers must climb and maintain their balance while working on poles and towers. They lift equipment and work in a variety of positions, such as stooping or kneeling. Their work often requires that they drive utility vehicles, travel long distances, and work outdoors under a variety of weather conditions.

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Education and Training
Line installers and repairers are trained on the job, and most employers generally require at least a high school diploma. However, employers prefer a technical knowledge of electricity and electronics obtained through vocational programs, community colleges, or experience in the Armed Forces.

Line installers and repairers working for electric power companies generally complete formal apprenticeship or employer training programs. These are sometimes administered jointly by the employer and the union representing the workers. Apprenticeship programs last up to 5 years and combine formal instruction with on-the-job training. Line installers and repairers in telephone and cable television companies receive several years of on-the-job training. They may also attend training or take online courses provided by equipment manufacturers, schools, unions, or industry training organizations. The Society of Cable Television Engineers (SCTE) provides certification programs for line installers and repairers. Applicants for certification must be employed in the cable television industry, and attend training sessions at local SCTE chapters.

Skills & Other Requirements
Prospective employees should possess a basic knowledge of algebra and trigonometry, and mechanical ability. Customer service and interpersonal skills also are important. Because the work entails lifting heavy objects (many employers require applicants to be able to lift at least 60 pounds), climbing, and other physical activity, applicants should have stamina, strength, and coordination, and must be unafraid of heights. The ability to distinguish colors is necessary because wires and cables may be color-coded.

References
Oregon Labor Market Information Center Occupational Information Center

Related Occupations: Electric Power Generating Plant Operators

Training: California Training and Education Providers (CTEP)