How Much Does a Helicopter Lineman Make?
Helicopter linemen, also known as aerial lineworkers or helicopter transmission lineworkers, play a critical role in maintaining and repairing electrical power lines and transmission systems. These highly skilled professionals use helicopters to access hard-to-reach areas and perform tasks that would be difficult or impossible to complete by traditional means. As a result, helicopter linemen are in high demand and can command a range of salaries depending on their experience, location, and employer.
Average Salaries for Helicopter Linemen
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for electrical power-line installers and maintainers, which includes helicopter linemen, was $81,760 in May 2020. However, salaries can vary widely depending on the specific employer, location, and level of experience.
Here is a breakdown of average salaries for helicopter linemen by level of experience:
| Level of Experience | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0-2 years) | $60,000 – $70,000 |
| Mid-Level (2-5 years) | $70,000 – $85,000 |
| Senior-Level (5-10 years) | $85,000 – $100,000 |
| Master-Level (10+ years) | $100,000 – $120,000 |
Factors Affecting Salaries
Several factors can impact the salary of a helicopter lineman, including:
- Location: Helicopter linemen working in urban areas tend to earn higher salaries than those working in rural areas. Cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago tend to offer higher salaries than smaller towns and rural areas.
- Employer: Electric utility companies, transmission operators, and private contractors offer different salaries and benefits packages. Large electric utilities and transmission operators tend to offer higher salaries than smaller companies and private contractors.
- Experience and qualifications: Helicopter linemen with advanced certifications, specialized training, and a strong track record of safety and performance tend to earn higher salaries.
- Job duties and responsibilities: Helicopter linemen working in high-risk or complex environments, such as construction projects or emergency response situations, may earn higher salaries due to the added responsibility and risk.
Job Outlook and Benefits
The demand for helicopter linemen is expected to remain strong due to the ongoing need for reliable and efficient transmission systems. According to the BLS, employment of electrical power-line installers and maintainers is projected to grow 9% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations.
In addition to a competitive salary, helicopter linemen can expect a range of benefits, including:
- Health and wellness benefits: Many employers offer comprehensive health insurance plans, retirement plans, and other wellness benefits.
- Paid time off: Helicopter linemen can expect a range of paid holidays, vacation days, and sick leave.
- Training and development opportunities: Employers often invest in ongoing training and professional development to ensure their lineworkers stay up-to-date with the latest techniques and technologies.
- Sense of satisfaction and accomplishment: Helicopter linemen play a critical role in maintaining the reliability of electrical power systems, which can be a source of great pride and satisfaction.
Conclusion
Helicopter linemen are highly skilled and specialized professionals who play a critical role in maintaining and repairing electrical power lines and transmission systems. While salaries can vary widely depending on factors such as location, employer, and level of experience, helicopter linemen can expect a range of salaries from $60,000 to $120,000 per year. With a strong job outlook and a range of benefits, a career as a helicopter lineman can be a rewarding and challenging option for those who are passionate about the electrical industry.
