Lineworker Career Guide in Washington
Explore lineworker salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Washington.
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How to Become a Lineworker in Washington
The primary pathway is the Northwest Line Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee’s paid apprenticeship. Utility-sponsored programs and college electrical programs provide additional entry routes.
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 Washington
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Washington 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 Washington is approximately $40,500 higher. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Lineworkers in Washington
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 Washington
Washington lineworkers normally complete a registered outside-line or utility apprenticeship and must meet employer and state electrical-safety standards.
- Earn a high school diploma or equivalent and complete the required algebra preparation.
- Apply to an approved outside-line apprenticeship or utility lineworker training program.
- Obtain a commercial driver’s license or learner’s permit before or during the program, as required.
- Complete training in climbing, distribution and transmission systems, substations, rigging, grounding, live-line procedures, and equipment operation.
- Earn OSHA, flagging, first-aid, CPR, and employer-specific safety qualifications.
- Verify whether an electrical certificate is required when work extends beyond exempt utility distribution or transmission systems.
Lineworker Training Providers in Washington
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Spokane Community College | Spokane | View Program |
| Bellingham Technical College | Bellingham | View Program |
| Bates Technical College | Tacoma | View Program |
| Perry Technical Institute | Yakima | 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 Washington
Outside Line Construction Apprenticeship
Organization: Northwest Line Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee
Lineworker Licensing Requirements in Washington
Washington generally does not require utility lineworkers employed by utilities or qualified outside-line contractors to hold a general electrician certificate for utility-system work. Electrical licensing may apply when work crosses into premises wiring. A CDL and employer electrical-safety qualifications are commonly required.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSLineworker Job Outlook in Washington
Washington projects employment to increase from approximately 2,390 workers in 2024 to 2,480 in 2034, representing 4% growth and approximately 200 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 Washington?
The statewide median wage for lineworkers in Washington is approximately $133,060 per year, or $63.97 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Washington require lineworker licensing?
Washington does not use one uniform statewide licensing rule for all lineworker work. Local requirements may apply, and applicants should verify the rules in the city or county where they plan to work.
How long does it take to become a lineworker in Washington?
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 Washington?
Washington projects lineworker employment to grow by approximately 4% from 2024 to 2034, with about 200 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
- Washington Wages for Lineworker (SOC 49-9051) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Washington Lineworker Wages
- Washington Lineworker Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Washington Lineworker Employment Trends
- Washington State Department of Labor & Industries — Electrical Program — Licensing authority. Washington State Department of Labor & Industries — Electrical Program