How Do I Become a Line Installer?

A line installer is a person who installs electrical wires as part of a complex network or system to run electricity, phone lines, or other electrical applications. In order to become a line installer, a candidate must usually complete a high school education, though this is not always required. You can become a line installer by securing an apprenticeship or by taking part in a training course or college program. An apprenticeship will allow you to learn the necessary skills and techniques while being paid to work on the job under the guidance of a more experienced line installer.

It will be necessary to find out what the application requirements are if you want to secure an apprenticeship that will help you become a line installer. Some apprenticeship programs may require a certain level of education, or on-the-job experience that lends itself to success in the field. Other apprenticeships may require you to complete other training before you can apply. In some cases, however, no formal training or education may be necessary to become a line installer through an apprenticeship program. If a labor union exists in your area, you may want to inquire about apprenticeship opportunities.

Otherwise, you may want to consider taking a college course that will prepare you to become a line installer. These courses may only take a few months or up to several years, depending on the type of certification you will be earning. If it is a degree program, plan to spend two to four years working on the degree. This is usually not necessary, though such a program will give you experience in fiber optics, electronics, and microwave transmission. You may also get training pertaining to safe operation of heavy machinery commonly used by line installers to bury lines, install utility poles and lines, and maintain lines hung from such poles.

On-the-job training is perhaps the best way to become a line installer, which means you may have to start out in another entry level position and work with more experienced line installers. While on the job, you may be responsible for operating machinery, assisting in installation procedures, or performing manual labor pertaining to the installation of utility poles or other related components. Most companies will provide training opportunities to new employees, and once you become a line installer, you will still have the opportunity to further your career by participating in more training.