Energy

Utility linemen are the brains and the muscle behind making sure electric power is constantly delivered and available. In the aftermath of disastrous weather events is when utility linemen are at their best. They work carefully and quickly to restore power throughout the countryside, so our lives and well-being are not disrupted.

Line workers earn an average salary of about $55,000.  Experienced workers may earn $65,000 or more, and with promotions to managers or supervisors, may earn up to $100,000. Opportunities to work overtime can boost compensation for line workers of all skill levels. These jobs also include benefits, such as health insurance and retirement plans.

Mississippi employers generally require a high school diploma or its equivalent for these careers, and a community college degree is preferred. Some employers may require job candidates to participate in an industry-specific pre-employment test, such as those offered by the Edison Electric Institute.  Specific on-the-job lineman training programs or participation in an off-site lineman training school may be required by some Mississippi employers; however, in these instances, employers are often willing to provide a whole or partial subsidy to offset the costs of attendance.

Successful linemen must be able to climb poles or use truck-mounted buckets to reach equipment, identify defective fuses, switches, and wires, demonstrate awareness of safety standards (particularly as linemen work alongside high voltages of electricity), inspect and test power lines and other equipment, lay cables, work well in a team, be prepared to spend a large portion of the work day outdoors; and not mind heights.

Mississippi Gulf Coast CC
John Shows
601-928-6397 
Gulfport

Holmes CC 
Mandy Burrell
662-472-9172
Goodman, Grenada, Ridgeland

Mississippi Delta CC 
Todd Donald
662-445-1989
Moorhead

Pearl River CC 
Dr. Ed Pinero 
601-403-1102
Poplarville

East Mississippi CC
Dr. Raj Shaunak
662-243-1911
Scooba