Helicopter linemen are a unique subset of the lineman profession, performing their duties from the skies rather than the ground. This specialized role demands a unique skill set and training, offering a distinct set of challenges and rewards. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to becoming a helicopter lineman.
Role and Responsibilities of a Helicopter Lineman
Helicopter linemen are tasked with the installation, repair, and maintenance of overhead electrical power lines and auxiliary equipment. They operate in environments where traditional ground-based vehicles and equipment are ineffective, such as remote rural areas or rugged mountainous landscapes. The ability to work on live conductors without grounding provides an efficient solution to costly power outages. The productivity of helicopter crews is significant as they can be strategically positioned, eliminating the need for ground access in challenging terrains.
Helicopter linemen perform a variety of tasks including the construction, inspection, and repair of extra high voltage (EHV) lines. They operate from a helicopter platform, helicopter skid, transfer to the structure, use the short haul method, and wire-walk on both energized and de-energized lines.
Steps to Becoming a Helicopter Lineman
Becoming a helicopter lineman typically begins with gaining experience as a journeyman, although there are occasional apprenticeships and ground hand opportunities. To transition to working from a helicopter, you must be comfortable and experienced with constructing, inspecting, and repairing EHV lines. A solid foundation from a quality apprenticeship is the ideal starting point. Mastering the fundamentals on the ground is the surest path to taking your skills to the skies.
As an apprentice, you’ll need to complete 4 years and 8,000 On-the-Job Training (OJT) hours working in the maintenance and construction of electrical systems. As you gain experience and expertise, you can advance from a foreman to a superintendent to a director of operations, and even to a wire pilot, with additional licensure and training.
Working in the Field
Helicopter linemen often find employment with companies that provide transmission line services to major utilities across the U.S. It’s also not uncommon for the helicopter to be owned by one company and then contracted to a particular electric or utility company for a job.
Working on a helicopter crew, you’ll experience a shift in size and speed. Helicopters can be incredibly efficient for stringing long distances of wire. Crews use helicopters to transport from the landing zone to the structure, saving both time and money on the job. Crews often work in three-man teams moving a static line affixed above newly constructed power lines in a series of structures.
Job Opportunities and Requirements
With the assistance of a helicopter, linemen can be placed in precise positions. Many people dream of taking a helicopter to work, and these linemen get to live it. Aerial linemen must be able to use a variety of “hot line” tools and make use of rubber gloves, line hoses, mechanical jumpers, fiber guards, and blankets. While these job descriptions may sound similar to most lineman positions, aerial linemen must be able to transfer from helicopter to structure via helicopter platform perform cross arm replacement, insulator replacement, conductor cut in, un-clip/clip-in conductors all from hundreds of feet in the air.
The ideal candidate for many journeyman helicopter positions will be able to work a continuous travel-based rotation schedule and has a valid CDL license with tanker and HAZMAT endorsements, or will be able to receive one within 90 days of hire. Graduating from a line school strengthens your career trajectory in the trade. The basics that will get you hired in most ground positions such as problem-solving, being energetic, punctual, and the ability to receive and follow direction and take responsibility for yourself will carry over well in this environment.
Salary Expectations for Helicopter Linemen
The typical pay range for high-voltage helicopter linemen is one of the highest in the industry. While pay scales are broken down on an hourly basis, it is not uncommon for an experienced journeyman lineman doing aerial work to gross over $120,000 in one year. Some of the variables that affect the pay scales include location, local union, hazard compensation, and overtime. As with any payment statistics, there are many outliers on both ends of the bell curve. The average lineman hourly pay in the United States is approximately $32.00, which equates to about a $66,000 salary.
If you feel you are qualified, up for the challenge, and looking for a change of scenery, consider a job as a helicopter lineman. This unique and rewarding career offers a blend of technical expertise, physical challenge, and breathtaking views.