Power industry overhead linesperson
Level 3 · AdvancedEngineering and manufacturing 2.5 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
This Level 3 apprenticeship trains you to install, maintain, and repair overhead electricity distribution lines and structures on the power network. You will work at height on poles and towers, stringing conductors and maintaining the infrastructure that delivers electricity across the country. It can lead to senior linesperson, line supervisor, or power network operations roles.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Overhead line construction standards and network design principles
Safe working at height on poles, towers, and aerial platforms
Conductor stringing, tensioning, and attachment techniques
Inspection and maintenance of overhead line structures and fittings
Safe systems of work including permit-to-work and earthing procedures
Network switching and isolation procedures for overhead line work
Health and safety including working near live conductors and in adverse weather
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Erect, replace, and maintain overhead line poles and structures
String, tension, and attach conductors and earthwires to overhead lines
Climb poles and work at height using correct harness and safety equipment
Inspect overhead line infrastructure and identify defects for repair
Carry out network switching and earthing under permit-to-work
Clear vegetation and hazards from the overhead line corridor
Complete accurate inspection records and work completion documentation
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 3 (Advanced) - roughly A-level level. Employers usually look for some GCSEs (often English & maths around grade 4/C) or a Level 2 apprenticeship first. English & maths can sometimes be finished during training.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 4/5 (Higher) apprenticeship, or straight into the role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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