Lineworker Career Guide in Virginia
Explore lineworker salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Virginia.
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How to Become a Lineworker in Virginia
Virginia offers dedicated power-line-worker programs and registered apprenticeships. Training normally includes climbing, distribution construction, underground systems, transformers, rigging, electrical theory, emergency response, CDL preparation, and extensive supervised fieldwork.
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 Virginia
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Virginia 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 Virginia is approximately $15,970 lower. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Lineworkers in Virginia
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 Virginia
Virginia lineworkers generally enter the trade through a utility training program or registered outside-line apprenticeship rather than an individual state lineworker license.
- Earn a high school diploma or equivalent and satisfy apprenticeship math and aptitude requirements.
- Complete a lineworker certificate program or apply directly to a registered outside-line apprenticeship.
- Obtain a commercial driver’s license or learner’s permit when required.
- Complete training in climbing, line construction, electrical distribution, transformers, grounding, rigging, and energized-work procedures.
- Maintain first-aid, CPR, OSHA, and employer-required safety qualifications.
- Complete the required classroom instruction and supervised on-the-job hours for journey-level status.
Lineworker Training Providers in Virginia
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Southside Virginia Community College | Alberta | View Program |
| New River Community College | Dublin | View Program |
| Mountain Empire Community College | Big Stone Gap | View Program |
| Central Virginia Community College | Lynchburg | 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 Virginia
Outside Line Apprenticeship
Organization: Northeastern Apprenticeship and Training Program
Lineworker Licensing Requirements in Virginia
Virginia does not issue a standalone occupational license for individual utility lineworkers. Workers normally qualify through apprenticeship and employer training. Contractor licensing may apply to businesses contracting for electrical or utility work, and a Virginia CDL may be required for line trucks.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSLineworker Job Outlook in Virginia
Virginia’s latest long-term projection indicates approximately 4% growth for electrical power-line installers and repairers from 2024 to 2034, with about 240 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 Virginia?
The statewide median wage for lineworkers in Virginia is approximately $76,590 per year, or $36.82 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Virginia require lineworker licensing?
No statewide occupational license is generally required for lineworker workers in Virginia. Local jurisdictions, employers, or specific work scopes may still impose requirements, so applicants should verify current rules before beginning work.
How long does it take to become a lineworker in Virginia?
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 Virginia?
Virginia projects lineworker employment to grow by approximately 4% from 2024 to 2034, with about 240 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
- Virginia Wages for Lineworker (SOC 49-9051) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Virginia Lineworker Wages
- Virginia Lineworker Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Virginia Lineworker Employment Trends
- Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation — Board for Contractors — Licensing authority. Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation — Board for Contractors