All of those essential things we need to live our lives would not be possible without the hard work and dedication of utility workers. From electricity and natural gas to water, sewer and telecommunications, utility workers are the folks who help power society.
Whether working as an executive in a boardroom or a technician in the field, the utility industry is a great place to build a rewarding career. As of October 2023, the utilities sector of the U.S. economy employed more than 560,000 people. Job availability and wages have both been on the rise. As a matter of fact, average industry hourly wages increased 20% from 2019 to 2023 alone.
Several factors fuel demand for utility services, including population growth and new infrastructure installation, existing infrastructure replacement, and ongoing maintenance and repair. Thus, there are more employment opportunities in certain parts of the country than others. Employment opportunities may also vary depending on which segment of the broader utilities industry you’re seeking employment in.
Electrical Powerline Installation & Repair professionals install and repair cables used in electrical power or distribution systems. Commonly referred to as linemen, they also erect poles and heavy-duty transmission towers. The latest industry estimate from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics suggests there are nearly 120,000 people employed to do this type of work.
Employment Opportunities
The top 10 cities employing the most powerline workers in 2024 are:
1. Houston
2. New York
3. Chicago
4. Dallas
5. Los Angeles
6. St. Louis
7. Miami
8. Atlanta
9. Washington, D.C.
10. Riverside, California
Wages and Compensation
Powerline workers earn nearly $40 an hour as an industry average. San Jose, Calif., leads the way with an average of $61.43. Here’s a look at the top 10 cities for powerline worker wages:
1. San Jose, California
2. Bellingham, Washington
3. Trenton, New Jersey
4. Modesto, California
5. San Francisco, California
6. Kahului, Hawaii
7. Eugene, Oregon
8. Bend, Oregon
9. Bridgeport, Connecticut
10. Sacramento, California
In conclusion
Choosing the best cities to seek employment as a powerline worker largely depends on where you’d like to live and work. Yes, certain cities offer more employment opportunities and higher wages. But the industry as a whole is growing, is in urgent need of workers, and is paying higher wages than it has ever paid before. Now is a great time to build a great career as a powerline worker—whichever city you choose.
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