CDL Truck Driver vs Lineman/Power Line Installer: Salary, Training & Career Comparison
Trying to decide between a career as a cdl truck driver or a lineman/power line installer? Here's a side-by-side look at the numbers that matter most: pay, job outlook, training requirements, and more.
| Category | 🚛 CDL Truck Driver | 💡 Lineman/Power Line Installer |
|---|---|---|
| Median Hourly | $24.20/hr | $37.50/hr |
| Median Annual | $50,300/yr | $78,000/yr |
| Job Growth (10-yr) | 4.0% | 8.0% |
| Total Jobs | 2,010,200 | 126,100 |
| Training Time | 3-6 months CDL training | 4 years |
| Top-Paying State | Alaska ($70,200/yr) | Alaska ($107,900/yr) |
| Union Rate | $30/hr (Teamsters) | $48/hr (IBEW) |
Salary Comparison
CDL Truck Drivers earn about $24,600/yr more on average
Which Career Is Right for You?
Both cdl truck drivers and lineman/power line installers are solid career paths with good earning potential and strong job security. The best choice depends on your interests, physical abilities, and lifestyle preferences.
🚛 Choose CDL Truck Driver if...
CDL truck drivers haul freight across local routes or long-distance highways. The ongoing driver shortage means competitive pay, sign-on bonuses, and plenty of job options for qualified drivers.
CDL Truck Driver salary data →💡 Choose Lineman/Power Line Installer if...
Linemen install and repair electrical power lines, cables, and related equipment. The work is dangerous and often requires travel and storm response, but the pay and benefits -- especially through IBEW -- are among the best in any trade.
Lineman/Power Line Installer salary data →Training difference: Lineman apprenticeship is 4 years vs 3-6 months for CDL
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Lineman/Power Line Installers earn a slightly higher national median of $78,000/yr compared to $50,300/yr for cdl truck drivers.
Lineman/Power Line Installer jobs are projected to grow at 8.0% over the next decade, compared to 4.0% for cdl truck drivers.
Lineman apprenticeship is 4 years vs 3-6 months for CDL. Both paths require dedication and hands-on training, but the length and structure differ.
While some skills transfer between trades, switching typically requires additional training and licensing. That said, the foundational skills -- problem solving, working with tools, reading blueprints -- are valuable in any trade. Some workers complete training in multiple trades over their career.