Electrical Power-Line Installers (Linemen) vs Sheet Metal Workers
Side-by-side comparison of salary, job growth, and training requirements based on BLS data.
Overview
Both linemen and sheet metal workers offer solid trades careers, but with distinct differences. Linemen install and repair electrical power lines, earning a median $92,560 annually with 8.8% job growth projected through 2034. Sheet metal workers fabricate and install HVAC systems and metal products, earning $60,850 median with 5.2% growth. Both require 4-5 year apprenticeships combining classroom and hands-on training. Linemen work primarily outdoors on power infrastructure, while sheet metal workers split time between shop fabrication and installation sites. The $31,710 salary difference reflects linemen's specialized skills and higher risk work environment.
Salary Breakdown
Linemen significantly out-earn sheet metal workers at every level. Entry-level linemen start around $45,000-55,000, while experienced journeymen can exceed $120,000 annually. Storm restoration and overtime can push total compensation to $150,000+ in peak years. Sheet metal workers typically start at $35,000-45,000, with experienced workers reaching $75,000-85,000. Both trades offer excellent overtime opportunities, but linemen's emergency callouts and specialized power work command premium rates. Geographic location heavily impacts both trades, with union markets and areas with extreme weather offering higher compensation for linemen especially.
Work Environment
Linemen work almost exclusively outdoors in all weather conditions, often at dangerous heights on power lines. The work involves significant physical demands, travel between service areas, and emergency callouts during storms. Safety risks are considerable but well-managed through extensive training and protocols. Sheet metal workers split time between climate-controlled fabrication shops and job sites. While still physically demanding, the work offers more predictable schedules and indoor alternatives during extreme weather. Both trades involve lifting, climbing, and precision work, but linemen face higher inherent risks from electrical hazards and elevation.
Career Growth
Linemen can specialize in transmission, distribution, or substation work, with opportunities to become crew leaders, trainers, or move into utility management. Some start their own contracting businesses serving utilities. Top specialists and supervisors can earn $130,000+. Sheet metal workers can specialize in HVAC, architectural metalwork, or industrial systems. Advancement includes foreman roles, estimating, project management, or starting fabrication shops. Business ownership potential is strong in both trades, but linemen's specialized skills create higher barriers to entry and potentially more lucrative opportunities in emergency services and specialized maintenance contracts.
Who should choose Electrical Power-Line Installers (Linemen)?
Choose linemen work if you thrive outdoors regardless of weather, aren't afraid of heights, and want maximum earning potential. This career suits those who enjoy problem-solving under pressure, don't mind irregular hours during emergencies, and take pride in keeping communities powered. You should be safety-conscious, physically fit, and comfortable with ongoing technical training. The work appeals to people who prefer varied job sites over routine environments and value the respect that comes with essential infrastructure work.
Typical path: IBEW/NEAT apprenticeship or lineman school; CDL required
Explore Electrical Power-Line Installers (Linemen) →Who should choose Sheet Metal Workers?
Choose sheet metal work if you enjoy both fabrication craftsmanship and installation variety. This suits detail-oriented people who like working with their hands, reading blueprints, and seeing projects from raw materials to finished systems. You'll appreciate more predictable schedules than emergency trades offer, while still getting diverse work environments. This career fits those interested in HVAC technology, architectural metalwork, or manufacturing processes. It's ideal for people who want solid middle-class earnings with opportunities for specialization and business ownership in growing construction and maintenance markets.
Typical path: SMWIA apprenticeship; combines classroom and on-the-job training
Explore Sheet Metal Workers →The Bottom Line
Both are recession-resistant trades with strong futures. Choose linemen for maximum earning potential and outdoor adventure with higher risks. Choose sheet metal work for steady income, craftsmanship variety, and better work-life balance in a growing field.