Overhead Line Worker
4AI EXPOSURE TODAY4
20-YEAR SCENARIO
NOT A FORECAST49%
NOT A FORECAST49%
THE DOOR · ENTRY DIFFICULTY TODAYB
STARTING PAY£22,000 - £28,000
PHYSICAL MOATThe work is hands-on, in the real world. Software alone can't do it.
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CAREERMASH (EN)FROM CONSTRUCTION & TRADES →
Overhead Line Worker
Overhead line workers are the unsung heroes of our electrical infrastructure, ensuring that power flows smoothly to homes and businesses across the UK. Their expertise is crucial for maintaining safety, reliability, and efficiency in our energy supply, making them vital players in the transition to a sustainable future.
THE DOOR: ENTRY DIFFICULTY TODAY, graded A (easy) to E (extremely hard). A Careermash rule-of-thumb index built from our AI exposure index and the job's moat class. It is not a forecast and not a count of job openings.
AI EXPOSURE TODAY is a Careermash index from 0 to 100 of how exposed this job's everyday tasks are to AI today. We estimate it by matching published research on how people use AI to this job, usually by keyword or subject area, and we lower it where the work is protected (for example by physical, personal or legal requirements). It is not a direct measurement of how much people in this job use AI.
This job holds up well against AI
AI exposure today is low on our index (4), and the work is hands-on, in the real world. Software alone can't do it. That is about as safe as careers get right now, though it is still worth learning to use the tools well.
Career progression path
1FIRST STEPJunior Overhead Line WorkerAs a junior overhead line worker, you will assist experienced colleagues in the installation and maintenance of power lines, gaining hands-on experience and training.£22,000 - £28,000
2GAINING EXPERIENCEMid-Level Overhead Line WorkerIn this role, you will take on more responsibilities, including leading small teams and managing specific projects, while continuing to develop your technical skills.£30,000 - £38,000
3PEAK CAREERSenior Overhead Line WorkerAs a senior worker, you will oversee projects, mentor junior staff, and ensure that all work meets high safety and quality standards.£45,000+
Apprenticeship listings for this career → (June 2026 snapshot; check closing dates on the official service)
There is more than one way in
You do not have to go the university route to get here. There is an apprenticeship route into this career. There is also a vocational route that skips a degree entirely.