Electrical Power-Line Installers (Linemen) Salary in Idaho

Electrical Power-Line Installers (Linemen) in Idaho earn a median salary of $120,240 annually, or $57.81 per hour—significantly higher than the national median of $92,560. Entry-level linemen (10th percentile) start around $63,330, while experienced professionals can earn up to $129,120. The majority of linemen fall between $84,640 (25th percentile) and $123,530 (75th percentile). Idaho's lower cost of living (3.3% below national average) makes this salary even more attractive, with a cost-adjusted value of $124,343. Pay varies based on experience level, union membership (IBEW locals typically offer higher wages and better benefits), employer type (investor-owned utilities generally pay more than cooperatives), and geographic location within the state. The Boise metro area and industrial regions typically offer the highest compensation. Job security is excellent due to aging infrastructure, grid modernization projects, and the essential nature of electrical power maintenance. Storm restoration work and overtime opportunities can significantly boost annual earnings beyond base salaries.

In Idaho, becoming a lineman requires completing a 4-5 year apprenticeship program, typically through the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) or the National Electrical and Telecommunications Association (NEAT). Idaho Power Company and other utilities also offer their own apprenticeship programs. Before applying, you'll need a high school diploma or GED, a valid driver's license, and must obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Class A within the first year of employment. Most programs require passing physical fitness tests, drug screening, and aptitude tests. The apprenticeship combines classroom instruction (typically 144 hours annually) with on-the-job training under experienced journeymen. Apprentices start at 40-50% of journeyman wages and receive regular pay increases throughout the program. Alternative paths include attending lineman schools like Northwest Lineman College in Idaho, which offers 15-week programs that can make you more competitive for apprenticeships. Idaho doesn't require state licensing for linemen, but you'll need various certifications including CPR, first aid, and specialized safety training. Key employers include Idaho Power, Avista, Rocky Mountain Power, and various electrical contractors. Union membership through IBEW Local 57 (Boise) provides access to better apprenticeships, higher wages, and comprehensive benefits.

The salary range for Idaho linemen shows a clear progression based on experience and specialization. Entry-level workers at the 10th percentile ($63,330) are typically first-year apprentices or those in rural cooperative positions. The 25th percentile ($84,640) represents second- and third-year apprentices or newer journeymen at smaller utilities. The median wage of $120,240 reflects experienced journeymen at major utilities like Idaho Power or union positions. Top earners (75th-90th percentiles, $123,530-$129,120) are typically senior linemen, crew leaders, or specialists in high-voltage transmission work. The relatively narrow gap between the 50th and 90th percentiles ($8,880 difference) suggests standardized union wage scales and utility pay structures. Geographic location within Idaho also impacts pay—Boise metropolitan area positions typically command higher wages than rural assignments. Union membership through IBEW generally pushes wages toward the higher percentiles, while non-union positions may fall in the lower ranges.