Industrial Machinery Mechanics vs Electrical Power-Line Installers (Linemen)
Side-by-side comparison of salary, job growth, and training requirements based on BLS data.
Overview
Both Industrial Machinery Mechanics and Electrical Power-Line Installers are solid blue-collar careers with strong earning potential, but they offer different paths. Machinery mechanics earn a median $63,760 annually with 5.5% job growth, working primarily indoors maintaining manufacturing equipment. Linemen command higher pay at $92,560 median salary with 8.8% growth, installing and repairing electrical power systems outdoors. Machinery mechanics typically need 1-4 years training through apprenticeships or associate degrees, while linemen require 4-5 years through IBEW apprenticeships or lineman schools plus CDL licensing. Both offer excellent job security in essential industries.
Salary Breakdown
Linemen hold a significant salary advantage, earning $28,800 more annually than machinery mechanics - a 31% difference. Entry-level machinery mechanics start around $45,000, topping out near $85,000, with moderate overtime opportunities. Linemen start higher at $55,000-65,000, with experienced professionals earning $120,000+ including substantial overtime and hazard pay. Storm restoration work can push lineman earnings even higher during emergency callouts. Union representation is stronger in electrical work, providing better benefits and wage protection.
Work Environment
Machinery mechanics work primarily indoors in manufacturing facilities, dealing with moderate noise, heat, and chemical exposure. They work standard shifts with occasional emergency calls. Linemen face more extreme conditions - working outdoors in all weather, at heights up to 200 feet, with high-voltage electricity. The physical demands are intense, requiring excellent fitness and balance. Linemen travel frequently for storm restoration and may work extended hours during emergencies. Both trades have safety risks, but linemen face higher fatality rates due to electrical and fall hazards.
Career Growth
Machinery mechanics can advance to lead technician, maintenance supervisor, or facility manager roles. Specializations include robotics, CNC systems, or specific industries like food processing. Some start their own maintenance businesses. Earning ceiling typically caps around $90,000-100,000. Linemen have clearer advancement paths: journeyman to foreman to general foreman to superintendent. Specializations include transmission work, substation maintenance, or hot-line work. Business ownership opportunities exist in electrical contracting. Top earners can exceed $150,000 annually, with union leadership or utility management positions offering additional growth.
Who should choose Industrial Machinery Mechanics?
Choose machinery mechanics if you prefer problem-solving with complex mechanical systems, working indoors, and having predictable schedules. This career suits detail-oriented people who enjoy troubleshooting and working with their hands on varied equipment. It's ideal for those wanting solid middle-class earnings without extreme physical demands or extensive travel. The shorter training period appeals to those wanting quicker entry into the workforce while still building a respectable career.
Typical path: Associate degree or apprenticeship; industry certifications vary
Explore Industrial Machinery Mechanics →Who should choose Electrical Power-Line Installers (Linemen)?
Choose lineman work if you're physically fit, comfortable with heights, and want maximum earning potential in the trades. This career suits adventurous types who don't mind travel, extreme weather, and irregular hours during emergencies. The strong brotherhood culture and union benefits appeal to many. It's perfect for those wanting premium pay in exchange for accepting higher risks and physical demands. The longer apprenticeship investment pays off with superior lifetime earnings.
Typical path: IBEW/NEAT apprenticeship or lineman school; CDL required
Explore Electrical Power-Line Installers (Linemen) →The Bottom Line
Both are recession-proof careers, but linemen earn significantly more for accepting greater physical demands and risks. Choose machinery mechanics for work-life balance and steady indoor work, or linemen for maximum earning potential and outdoor adventure.