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Journeyman vs lineman

The differences between journeymen and linemen can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. Additionally, a lineman has an average salary of $78,563, which is higher than the $57,682 average annual salary of a journeyman.

The top three skills for a journeyman include hand tools, work ethic and HVAC. The most important skills for a lineman are safety rules, switches, and CDL.

Journeyman vs lineman overview

JourneymanLineman
Yearly salary$57,682$78,563
Hourly rate$27.73$37.77
Growth rate2%6%
Number of jobs13,9532,672
Job satisfaction-5
Most common degreeAssociate Degree, 31%High School Diploma, 43%
Average age4239
Years of experience4-

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.

What does a lineman do?

The primary job of a lineman is to install, repair, and maintain high-powered electrical lines and systems. They work on transmission and distribution lines from the power sources and extend to individual buildings or homes. Those working as a lineman can repair both overhead and underground electrical wires and cables. In addition, their responsibilities might also include excavating trenches to install underground lines, climbing poles to repair overhead lines, installing the meter, and inspecting power lines for possible repair or replacement.

Journeyman vs lineman salary

Journeymen and linemen have different pay scales, as shown below.

JourneymanLineman
Average salary$57,682$78,563
Salary rangeBetween $39,000 And $83,000Between $53,000 And $115,000
Highest paying CitySan Francisco, CAReno, NV
Highest paying stateWashingtonAlaska
Best paying companyCVR EnergyNV Energy
Best paying industryConstructionUtilities

Differences between journeyman and lineman education

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

JourneymanLineman
Most common degreeAssociate Degree, 31%High School Diploma, 43%
Most common majorBusinessBusiness
Most common college--

Journeyman vs lineman demographics

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

JourneymanLineman
Average age4239
Gender ratioMale, 87.2% Female, 12.8%Male, 94.7% Female, 5.3%
Race ratioBlack 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%Black or African American, 5.7% Unknown, 3.1% Hispanic or Latino, 13.5% Asian, 1.2% White, 75.0% American Indian and Alaska Native, 1.5%
LGBT Percentage2%4%

Differences between journeyman and lineman duties and responsibilities

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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Lineman example responsibilities.

  • Certify in first aid and CPR.
  • Move asphalt to where ever need.
  • Maintain all company issue tools and PPE.
  • Experience in jetting/underground fiber and NESC work as well.
  • Maintain a current CDL license with an excellent driving record.
  • Edit, and maintain filing system for all engineer drawings utilizing AutoCAD.
  • Show more

Journeyman vs lineman skills

Common journeyman skills
  • Hand Tools, 21%
  • Work Ethic, 13%
  • HVAC, 12%
  • Safety Procedures, 6%
  • Plumbing, 5%
  • OSHA, 5%
Common lineman skills
  • Safety Rules, 16%
  • Switches, 13%
  • CDL, 10%
  • Distribution Systems, 9%
  • PPE, 8%
  • Ventilation, 5%

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