Lineworker Career Guide in Oregon
Explore lineworker salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Oregon.
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How to Become a Lineworker in Oregon
The standard route is an approved outside-line apprenticeship, particularly the Northwest Line JATC program. Training combines paid work with instruction in overhead and underground systems, substations, live-line procedures, and Oregon electrical rules.
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 Oregon
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Oregon 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 Oregon is approximately $38,530 higher. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Lineworkers in Oregon
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 Oregon
Oregon lineworkers performing covered transmission and distribution work must obtain the applicable Limited Journeyman Lineman License.
- Earn a high school diploma or equivalent and meet approved-apprenticeship algebra, aptitude, physical, and driving requirements.
- Complete an Oregon-approved lineworker or outside-line apprenticeship with the required classroom and on-the-job hours.
- Obtain a commercial driver’s license or learner’s permit as required by the apprenticeship.
- Complete training in climbing, line construction, substations, transformers, rigging, grounding, underground systems, and energized-work practices.
- Pass the Oregon Limited Journeyman Lineman licensing examination.
- Renew the license and complete the continuing education required by the Building Codes Division.
Lineworker Training Providers in Oregon
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Clackamas Community College | Oregon City | View Program |
| Chemeketa Community College | Salem | View Program |
| Portland Community College | Portland | View Program |
| Lane Community College | Eugene | 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 Oregon
Outside Line Construction Apprenticeship
Organization: Northwest Line Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee
Electric Cooperative Lineworker Training
Organization: Oregon Rural Electric Cooperative Association
Lineworker Licensing Requirements in Oregon
Oregon requires a Limited Journeyman Lineman License for covered construction, installation, maintenance, and repair of electrical transmission and distribution systems. Applicants usually qualify through an approved lineworker apprenticeship and examination.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSLineworker Job Outlook in Oregon
Oregon’s latest long-term projection indicates approximately 9% growth for electrical power-line installers and repairers from 2024 to 2034, with about 160 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 Oregon?
The statewide median wage for lineworkers in Oregon is approximately $131,090 per year, or $63.02 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Oregon require lineworker licensing?
Yes. Oregon requires individuals performing regulated, non-exempt lineworker work to hold the appropriate license or credential. Applicants should verify the current license category, experience, examination, and renewal requirements with Oregon Building Codes Division — Electrical Licensing.
How long does it take to become a lineworker in Oregon?
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 Oregon?
Oregon projects lineworker employment to grow by approximately 9% from 2024 to 2034, with about 160 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
- Oregon Wages for Lineworker (SOC 49-9051) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Oregon Lineworker Wages
- Oregon Lineworker Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Oregon Lineworker Employment Trends
- Oregon Building Codes Division — Electrical Licensing — Licensing authority. Oregon Building Codes Division — Electrical Licensing