The #1 High School and University Resource for Saskatchewan Students
Powerline Technician

Powerline technicians construct, maintain and repair overhead and underground electrical power transmission and distribution systems. In some jurisdictions, powerline technicians also construct, maintain and repair communication networks. In larger utilities, powerline technicians may also specialize in one of the following areas: transmission lines, overhead and underground distribution, communication networks, and electrical power stations.

Powerline technicians erect and maintain steel, wood or concrete poles, towers and guy wires. They install, maintain and repair overhead and underground power lines and cables, and other associated equipment such as insulators, conductors, lightning arrestors, switches, transformers and lighting systems.

They splice, solder and terminate conductors and related wiring to connect power distribution and transmission networks. Powerline technicians may also be called upon to perform stringing operations encompassing electrical/data and telephone systems incorporated into an outdoor transmission distribution system.

Powerline technicians work outside in all weathers. The work always involves travel to and from the work site, which is often in remote areas necessitating the use of a variety of access equipment such as all-terrain vehicles, helicopters, aircraft, and watercraft. They climb and maintain their balance while working overhead on poles and towers. They also work in confined spaces such as trenches and tunnels. The work often requires considerable standing, bending, crawling, lifting, climbing, pulling, and reaching and may be conducted in cramped, confined spaces or on poles and towers at great heights. Hazards include electric shocks, burns, and falls. Powerline technicians may work a 40-hour week; however, emergencies may require long hours in inclement weather.

Powerline technicians are required to have good mechanical aptitude, the ability to lift heavy objects, the ability to work at heights in varying extreme climates, a thorough knowledge of the principles of electricity, power transmission and distribution systems, and communication systems, and familiarity with the materials and techniques of construction. All powerline technicians are required to be competent in the use and care of a variety of vehicles and equipment such as articulated bucket trucks, digger derricks, mobile cranes, and trenchers as well as a variety of hand, power, electrical testing, and "hot line" tools and equipment.

All electrical wiring and installations must conform to the Canadian Standard Association (CSA) standards and codes or to the provincial or territorial power supply utility standards. Therefore, powerline technicians must be thoroughly familiar with the applicable sections of those documents. For safety, permits and other regulations they follow local electrical, building and safety codes.

Powerline technicians may work alone with minimal supervision, and they may supervise others.

Recently Added Resources
  • Lather (Interior Systems Mechanic)

    Lathers handle, erect and install materials that are components in the construction of all or part of a structure. They lay out and install framework for ceiling systems, interior and exterior walls, floors and roofs. Lathers install various types of ceilings (e.g. suspended, spanned, direct contact), shielded walls (e.g. fire,... More >

  • Youth employment programs and services

    The Career Focus program provides funding for employers to offer post-secondary graduates opportunities to obtain career-related work experience. The objective of this program is to help youth acquire advanced employment skills and facilitate their transition to a rapidly changing labour market. This program connects youth with employers who can provide... More >

  • What Social Workers Do

    Social Workers are usually employed in hospitals, community health centers, mental health clinics, schools, advocacy organizations, government departments, social service agencies, child welfare settings, family service agencies, correctional facilities, social housing organizations, family courts, employee assistance programs and private counselling, school boards, and consultation agencies. More >

  • Carpenter

    A carpenter is a tradesperson who possesses the full range of knowledge and abilities required to construct, renovate and repair institutional, commercial, industrial (I.C.I.) and residential structures made of wood, steel, concrete and other materials. They can work for a wide array of employers, including construction firms, building owners and... More >

  • Recreation Vehicle Service Technician

    Recreation vehicle (RV) service technicians work on systems and components of recreation vehicles, including electrical components, plumbing, propane gas components, appliances, exterior and interior components, structural frames and towing systems. They diagnose, repair, replace, install, adjust, test, maintain and modify these components and systems. They may also perform maintenance and... More >

  • Heavy Duty Equipment Technician

    A heavy duty equipment technician is a tradesperson who possesses the full range of knowledge, abilities and skills required to diagnose, repair, adjust, overhaul, maintain, operate and test mobile heavy duty off-road equipment. Heavy duty equipment technicians are employed by companies that own and operate heavy equipment, heavy equipment dealerships,... More >

  • Instrumentation and Control Technician

    Instrumentation and control technicians work on measuring and controlling instrumentation. They also service plant process control, monitoring, safety and communications systems. They are knowledgeable in overall plant systems and interactions of processes. Some of the duties of instrumentation and control technicians are: 1. Consulting diagrams and technical documentation such as... More >

  • National Health Sciences Students' Association

    The National Health Sciences Students' Association (NaHSSA) was established in 2005, and it is the first national interprofessional student association in the world. NaHSSA is a network of local university and college-based chapters that promote interprofessional education and practice within Canada. It enables students to advocate for and learn from... More >