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Idaho Linemen Schools and Jobs

Updated: Dec 26, 2021

Although Idaho is located in the North, which is often associated with high power bills due to the cold weather, the state has some of cheapest power in the area. This is actually because about 80% of the states electricity actually comes from hydroelectric dams, which is essentially a cheap, infinite amount of energy. All of this energy has to go somewhere, which often is out of state, but a lot is still used internally. And this where the linemen step in the story. In this report we are focusing on Idaho linemen.


Index:

Idaho lineman schools


Some of the most popular in-state choices for lineman school in Idaho are Spokane Community College Lineman Program, and Northwest Lineman College Idaho. These are both relatively inexpensive schools that will help you into entry-level positions working in the lineman field.


In order to become a lineman in Idaho the first step is an apprenticeship. A lineman apprenticeship is an “earn while you learn” program in the sense that it is an entry level role that is focused on education and training. Idaho apprenticeships in the line industry can be difficult to enter and having a CDL as well as going to line school can improve your chances in the region. Some of the lineman schools are also known as pre-apprenticeship programs. In an interview, either union halls or contractors in Idaho, an aspiring lineman will be expected to articulate why he is interested in the field as well as what sort of relevant experience would translate well. Although there aren’t too many linemen in the state, it is a great job with out much competition, almost guaranteeing you a job.



Lineman Apprenticeships in Idaho
Lineman Apprenticeships in Idaho


Idaho lineman apprenticeships



Apprentices in Idaho work alongside veteran journeyman and learn from the best instructors in the industry. Apprentices are members of high-energy teams that work in the field to maintain substation, power lines, and other electrical projects.


Lineman apprentices in Idaho will be responsible for performing diversified work related to the construction and maintenance of poles, power lines, auxiliary facilities, and equipment for the distribution of electricity. As an apprentice, you will be doing almost anything that relates to field of line working.


Lineman apprentices in Idaho can typically make between $48,000 and $56,000 per year.

Idaho Lineman Jobs
Idaho Lineman Employers

Idaho lineman jobs


How much does a lineman make in Idaho?


We estimate there are currently 820 linemen in the state of Idaho. The median journeyman salary for lineman in Idaho is $81,100. The 90th percentile salary for journeyman lineman in Idaho is $99,120.

Some local unions for lineman in Idaho include Local 291, Local 104, and Local 532. There is a fair balance for lineman jobs in Idaho between union and non-union. Being in a union in Idaho is definitely helpful, however you should be able to find work without a union.


Idaho Power Company is a major employer of lineman through its strong apprenticeship program. Other major employers of lineman in Idaho include Avista Corporation, Rocky Mountain Power, and Northern Lights Inc.


Some of the other utilities we have been tracking over the past year that have been getting more aggressive with their posting of hiring opportunities for lineman include Bonneville Power Administration and Track Utilities, LLC.


Journeyman lineman in Idaho will be able to need to perform various types of distribution service calls. A typical day’s work would include performing all energized & de-energized work assigned to the crew, supervise the work of any apprentice lineman training with the crew, assume the responsibility for the crew when the foreman is not present.


Although the power in Idaho is some of the cheapest in the country, linemen are still compensated. Although it may be a little less than other states in the country, you still can receive a large paycheck. Plus, in theory, in this less populated state you will have relatively less work, which could be a good or bad thing.


The hydroelectricity dams are crazy impressive in the state. In fact, the state has one of largest hydroelectric facilities in the nation. This is a lot of power, meaning only about 13% of power produced in Idaho comes from natural gas.


In Idaho, you have many options where you want to work. Either you can work in the big cities, the medium towns, or the rural countryside. As no matter where anyone lives, everyone needs power!

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