Lineworker Career Guide in Idaho
Explore lineworker salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Idaho.
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How to Become a Lineworker in Idaho
Lineworker preparation commonly includes technical training, supervised apprenticeship, pole climbing, safety procedures, and commercial-driver qualification.
Note: Training pathways vary by employer, program sponsor, and licensing category. Classroom education may provide useful technical preparation, but it does not automatically replace supervised work experience unless the applicable licensing authority specifically allows that credit.
Lineworker Salary in Idaho
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Idaho median wage for lineworker workers, based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational wage data. A median wage is the point at which half of workers earn more and half earn less. It is not a guaranteed starting salary.
Actual earnings may vary by experience, license level, metropolitan area, employer, industry, overtime, and union agreement.
Compared with the national median of $92,560, the median wage in Idaho is approximately $32,850 higher. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Lineworkers in Idaho
Note: Licensing rules, fees, examinations, exemptions, and renewal requirements may change. Applicants should verify current requirements directly with the authority listed above before beginning work, applying for an examination, or enrolling in a training program.
CAREER PREPARATIONLineworker Training Requirements in Idaho
Idaho lineworkers typically progress from entry-level training into paid, supervised utility or outside-line work.
- Meet employer education, physical, and commercial-driver standards.
- Learn climbing, rigging, grounding, and energized-line safety.
- Complete the required employer or apprenticeship progression.
- Ask the Idaho electrical board whether a proposed nonutility installation requires a state credential.
Lineworker Training Providers in Idaho
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Northwest Lineman College | Meridian | View Program |
| College of Southern Idaho — apprenticeship and applied technology | Twin Falls | View Program |
| College of Western Idaho — related electrical training | Nampa | View Program |
| Idaho State University College of Technology — related electrical training | Pocatello | View Program |
Note: Program availability, admission requirements, tuition, and credit toward licensing requirements may change. Verify current details directly with the provider and the applicable state licensing authority before enrolling. Listings are informational and do not constitute rankings or endorsements.
PAID TRAINING OPPORTUNITIESLineworker Apprenticeship Programs in Idaho
Lineworker Licensing Requirements in Idaho
Idaho licensing depends on the work performed. The state regulates covered electrical installation work, but an electrical installer credential should not automatically be treated as a universal requirement for every utility lineworker.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSLineworker Job Outlook in Idaho
Idaho projects 12% growth from 2024 to 2034, with about 20 annual openings.
Note: State employment projections may use a different base period from national BLS projections. Projected growth is an estimate rather than a guarantee of employment, and local demand may vary by metropolitan area, industry, construction activity, and employer investment.
CAREER QUESTIONSFrequently Asked Questions
What is the lineworker salary in Idaho?
The statewide median wage for lineworkers in Idaho is approximately $125,410 per year, or $60.29 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Idaho require lineworker licensing?
Licensing requirements for lineworker workers in Idaho vary by work scope, license category, and jurisdiction. Applicants should verify current requirements with Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses — Electrical Board before beginning work or applying for an examination.
How long does it take to become a lineworker in Idaho?
The time required depends on the license pathway and training program. A typical training pathway takes approximately 3–4 Years to Journey Level, although licensing, apprenticeship, and employer requirements may differ.
Are lineworkers in demand in Idaho?
Idaho projects lineworker employment to grow by approximately 12% from 2024 to 2034, with about 20 openings per year. Projections include both new positions and openings created when workers leave the occupation.
Career Data Sources
State wage, employment outlook, and licensing information is reviewed using government and official regulatory sources. Data and requirements may change after publication.
- May 2024 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates — U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. May 2024 State OEWS
- Idaho Wages for Lineworker (SOC 49-9051) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Idaho Lineworker Wages
- Idaho Lineworker Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Idaho Lineworker Employment Trends
- Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses — Electrical Board — Licensing authority. Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses — Electrical Board