Electrical Power-Line Installers (Linemen) vs Machinists
Side-by-side comparison of salary, job growth, and training requirements based on BLS data.
Overview
Both linemen and machinists offer solid career paths with steady 8%+ growth, but they're different beasts. Linemen earn significantly more—$92,560 median versus $56,150 for machinists—but face higher physical demands and weather exposure. Linemen install and maintain electrical power lines, working outdoors in all conditions. Machinists operate precision equipment indoors, creating parts and instruments. Training time is similar (2-5 years), but linemen need CDL requirements and typically go through IBEW apprenticeships, while machinists can pursue community college programs or apprenticeships with NIMS certifications.
Salary Breakdown
The salary gap is substantial—linemen out-earn machinists by $36,410 annually (64.8% more). Entry-level linemen typically start around $50,000-60,000, while experienced journeymen can hit $100,000+ with overtime. Emergency storm work and specialty jobs boost earning potential significantly. Machinists start closer to $35,000-40,000, with experienced professionals reaching $70,000-80,000. CNC programming skills and aerospace/medical specializations command premium pay. Both trades offer overtime opportunities, but linemen's emergency response work creates higher earning spikes.
Work Environment
Linemen work primarily outdoors in all weather conditions—heat, cold, storms, you name it. They climb poles, work from bucket trucks, and face electrical hazards daily. Travel is common, especially for storm restoration. Machinists work indoors in climate-controlled shops, standing for long periods while operating precision equipment. Safety concerns include metal shavings, cutting fluids, and machinery hazards. Schedules vary—linemen often work irregular hours for emergencies, while machinists typically maintain more predictable shifts, though some facilities run 24/7 operations.
Career Growth
Linemen can advance to crew leader, foreman, or superintendent roles, with some becoming contractors or utility company managers. Specialized work like transmission, underground, or telecommunications pays premium rates. Business ownership through electrical contracting is viable. Machinists can specialize in CNC programming, tool and die work, or high-precision industries like aerospace or medical devices. Advancement leads to shop supervision, quality control, or manufacturing engineering roles. Some open machine shops or become manufacturing consultants. Both trades offer paths to six-figure incomes through specialization and experience.
Who should choose Electrical Power-Line Installers (Linemen)?
Choose linework if you want higher earning potential and don't mind working outdoors year-round. You should be physically fit, comfortable with heights, and able to handle emergency calls. This career suits people who like variety, problem-solving under pressure, and working with their hands on critical infrastructure. The work is demanding but rewarding—you're literally keeping the lights on. Good fit for those seeking adventure and willing to travel for storm restoration work.
Typical path: IBEW/NEAT apprenticeship or lineman school; CDL required
Explore Electrical Power-Line Installers (Linemen) →Who should choose Machinists?
Choose machining if you prefer indoor work and enjoy precision, detail-oriented tasks. This career suits people who like working with blueprints, measurements, and creating tangible products. You should have good hand-eye coordination, patience for setup work, and interest in technology like CNC programming. It's ideal for those wanting more predictable schedules and steady work conditions. Perfect for detail-oriented individuals who take pride in crafting precise parts that become components in everything from cars to medical devices.
Typical path: Apprenticeship or community college; NIMS certifications; CNC programming skills valued
Explore Machinists →The Bottom Line
Both are rock-solid careers with good growth prospects. Choose linework for higher pay and outdoor adventure, but expect demanding conditions. Choose machining for indoor precision work with more predictable schedules, though lower overall earning potential.