FAQ
Telecommunications Lineworker FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a telecommunications lineworker.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a telecommunications lineworker: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about telecommunications lineworkers
Is fiber work in demand?
Yes, fiber expansion keeps crews busy.
Do telecom lineworkers need a degree?
No, training is on the job.
Is the job dangerous?
Heights and power lines are risks managed with training.
How much does a telecommunications lineworker make?
The median annual wage for telecommunications lineworkers was $74,330 ($35.73 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $45,310 and the highest 10% earned more than $103,680.
How long does it take to become a telecommunications lineworker?
Most people need about 1–3 years of training. A high school diploma is typical, plus long on-the-job training or an apprenticeship.
Do you need a degree to be a telecommunications lineworker?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus long-term on-the-job training.
Is telecommunications lineworker a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change -3.4% from 2025–35 (a projected decline), with about 8,000 openings each year. Upsides include good pay without a degree; a common challenge is that heights and weather.
What skills does a telecommunications lineworker need?
Key technical skills include pole climbing, fiber splicing, aerial and underground construction, and testing equipment. Employers also value teamwork, problem solving, and reliability.
What certifications are available for telecommunications lineworkers?
Common credentials include Fiber Optic Association CFOT, CDL, OSHA 10, and Pole climbing certification. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Telecommunications Lineworker fit quiz, compare with Cell Tower Technician, or explore Telecommunications Lineworker training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 49-9052 (Telecommunications line installers and repairers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Telecommunications line installers and repairers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.