Across U.S. metros, electrical lineworkers typically earn $37,135 more a year than heavy equipment operators (62%). In the 259 metros where BLS publishes both, electrical lineworkers earn more in 259 and heavy equipment operators in 0.
| Electrical Lineworker | Heavy Equipment Operator | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical metro median pay | $96,805 | $59,670 |
| Lowest metro median | $59,530 | $27,770 |
| Highest metro median | $157,620 | $124,990 |
| Job growth 2025–35 (U.S.) | +10.3% | +4.6% |
| Openings per year (U.S.) | 10,900 | 39,200 |
| Self-employed | 0% | 2% |
| Typical education | High school diploma or equivalent | High school diploma or equivalent |
| Typical training | Long-term on-the-job training | Moderate-term on-the-job training |
| Injury rate per 10k workers (U.S.) | 177 | 78 |
| Metros with pay data | 260 | 391 |
On safety, electrical lineworkers report more injuries that cause missed work (177 vs. 78 per 10,000 full-time workers, national 2023–24).
Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025 (typical = median across metros). Growth, openings, education, training: BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Injuries: BLS SOII 2023–24.
Where electrical lineworkers out-earn heavy equipment operators the most Our calculation
Gap in median yearly pay, same metro.
What each trade does
Electrical Lineworker
Install or repair cables or wires used in electrical power or distribution systems. May erect poles and light or heavy duty transmission towers.
Heavy Equipment Operator
Operate one or several types of power construction equipment, such as motor graders, bulldozers, scrapers, compressors, pumps, derricks, shovels, tractors, or front-end loaders to excavate, move, and grade earth, erect structures, or pour concrete or other hard surface pavement. May repair and maintain equipment in addition to other duties.
Compare one trade across two cities →