Average salary*: $36,450

Education: High School Diploma

Testing: Pre-employment testing is typically required. Many companies require a passing score on the industry exams before being considered for employment. Topics focus on spatial ability, math concepts, mechanical reasoning and reading comprehension.

Special certificates/licenses: Commercial Drivers License (CDL). Enroll in a three to five year apprenticeship program, depending on individual company policy.

Things you�ll do: Must work as part of team - cannot perform line work alone.

Average salary*: $65,930

Education: Apprenticeship training

Required years of experience: Three to five, depending on length of apprentice program. Journeyman is the title one receives once an apprenticeship is complete. You can move into various specialties such as Underground Cable Splicer or Overhead Line Installer; each has their own apprenticeship programs.

Testing: No additional testing is required, however, one typically is evaluated on the performance of key skills.

Things you�ll do: Upon completion of the apprenticeship program, one is considered an expert at line work and can perform tasks independently.

Average salary*: $83,332

Education: While companies may provide some training in supervisory and leadership skills, an Associate�s degree may be beneficial.

Required years of experience: Eight to ten years

Things you�ll do: Crew leaders not only do the work, but they are in charge of supervising others.

Things they need to do include:

• Determine schedules and work activities of crew members.
• Review with crew members how well they are doing on the job and provide feedback, as necessary.
• Check work areas and examine tools and equipment to see if there are any unsafe conditions.
• Communicate effectively with others including crew members, bosses, and management.
• Deal with potentially stressful situations.