Elevator Installer vs Lineman/Power Line Installer: Salary, Training & Career Comparison
Trying to decide between a career as a elevator installer 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 | 🛗 Elevator Installer | 💡 Lineman/Power Line Installer |
|---|---|---|
| Median Hourly | $46/hr | $37.50/hr |
| Median Annual | $95,700/yr | $78,000/yr |
| Job Growth (10-yr) | 6.0% | 8.0% |
| Total Jobs | 34,500 | 126,100 |
| Training Time | 4 years | 4 years |
| Top-Paying State | New York ($130,000/yr) | Alaska ($107,900/yr) |
| Union Rate | $56/hr (IUEC) | $48/hr (IBEW) |
Salary Comparison
Elevator Installers earn about $18,500/yr more on average
Which Career Is Right for You?
Both elevator installers 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 Elevator Installer if...
Elevator installers and repairers assemble, install, and maintain elevators, escalators, and moving walkways. It is consistently the highest-paid construction trade, and getting into the union apprenticeship is highly competitive.
Elevator Installer 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: Both 4-year apprenticeships, but elevator is extremely competitive to enter
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Elevator Installers earn a national median of $95,700/yr compared to $78,000/yr for lineman/power line installers. That's a difference of about $17,700/yr.
Lineman/Power Line Installer jobs are projected to grow at 8.0% over the next decade, compared to 6.0% for elevator installers.
Both 4-year apprenticeships, but elevator is extremely competitive to enter. 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.