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Class a lineman vs journeyman

The differences between class a linemen and journeymen can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. Additionally, a class a lineman has an average salary of $72,423, which is higher than the $57,682 average annual salary of a journeyman.

The top three skills for a class a lineman include CDL, physical labor and bucket truck. The most important skills for a journeyman are hand tools, work ethic, and HVAC.

Class a lineman vs journeyman overview

Class A LinemanJourneyman
Yearly salary$72,423$57,682
Hourly rate$34.82$27.73
Growth rate6%2%
Number of jobs130,65513,953
Job satisfaction--
Most common degreeHigh School Diploma, 42%Associate Degree, 31%
Average age3942
Years of experience-4

What does a class a lineman do?

Class A linemen install insulators, switchgear, and transformers in poles, business, and residential infrastructures. They are responsible for the maintenance, construction, and repair of the electrical overhead distribution system. These linemen work on high voltage systems that require them to wear their gears to protect themselves and others. Being physically fit and healthy in this job is advantageous since it can be physically rigorous at times. They should know how the electrical wires are positioned by reading the blueprints.

What does a journeyman do?

A journeyman is an experienced worker whose role will vary on the line of industry where one is involved. They work without supervision from a master craftsman. Most of the responsibilities will revolve around performing manual work such as carpentry, plumbing, electrical and mechanical tasks, and other forms of trade. Furthermore, a journeyman can choose whether to work independently or to be part of a business entity. They can also recruit and train an apprentice, or even pursue to become a master in their preferred field.

Class a lineman vs journeyman salary

Class a linemen and journeymen have different pay scales, as shown below.

Class A LinemanJourneyman
Average salary$72,423$57,682
Salary rangeBetween $51,000 And $101,000Between $39,000 And $83,000
Highest paying City-San Francisco, CA
Highest paying state-Washington
Best paying company-CVR Energy
Best paying industry-Construction

Differences between class a lineman and journeyman education

There are a few differences between a class a lineman and a journeyman in terms of educational background:

Class A LinemanJourneyman
Most common degreeHigh School Diploma, 42%Associate Degree, 31%
Most common majorElectrical Engineering TechnologyBusiness
Most common college--

Class a lineman vs journeyman demographics

Here are the differences between class a linemen' and journeymen' demographics:

Class A LinemanJourneyman
Average age3942
Gender ratioMale, 96.8% Female, 3.2%Male, 87.2% Female, 12.8%
Race ratioBlack or African American, 5.7% Unknown, 3.0% Hispanic or Latino, 13.5% Asian, 1.2% White, 75.2% American Indian and Alaska Native, 1.4%Black or African American, 7.3% Unknown, 4.7% Hispanic or Latino, 23.2% Asian, 1.6% White, 62.0% American Indian and Alaska Native, 1.1%
LGBT Percentage4%2%

Differences between class a lineman and journeyman duties and responsibilities

Class a lineman example responsibilities.

  • Test, repair and improve wire connections to the transmission, distribution lines, sub-stations and switches.
  • Operate equipment such as; chain saws, line trucks, aerial lift trucks, trench diggers, and backhoes.
  • Adhere to OSHA, FRA and EPA regulations.
  • Support a 470.4 MW wind project and install 42 miles of 345 kV transmission line in just 13 weeks.
  • Utilize all proper PPE when performing work.
  • Install and remove PPE, cover up, and mechanical jumpers.
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Journeyman example responsibilities.

  • Manage 22 active duty hydraulic technicians in support of 32 of USAF's 59 KC-10A aircraft.
  • Serve as the hoisting specialist for critical glass lifts in order to achieve proper install while mitigating any risk for loss.
  • Implement and manage training program for incoming and/or replacement facility managers enhancing overall knowledge of CE maintenance and repair operations.
  • Install EMT to rigid including PVC.
  • Perform arc welding of steel clips for curtain wall installation.
  • Repair the electrical systems of various engineering equipment utilizing soldering irons, resistors, relays, switches, and hand tools.
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Class a lineman vs journeyman skills

Common class a lineman skills
  • CDL, 26%
  • Physical Labor, 9%
  • Bucket Truck, 8%
  • PPE, 7%
  • Digger Derrick, 5%
  • Switches, 5%
Common journeyman skills
  • Hand Tools, 21%
  • Work Ethic, 13%
  • HVAC, 12%
  • Safety Procedures, 6%
  • Plumbing, 5%
  • OSHA, 5%

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