Powerline 

Technician

Powerline Technicians are careful and analytical tradespeople who work with the complex electrical systems that deliver power to our homes and businesses. 

As a Powerline Technician, you’ll put your analytical nature to the test—in an essential role that ensures the continued, safe supply of power to our communities. 

You'll construct, maintain and repair overhead and underground electrical power transmission and distribution systems. You may work for electric power generation authorities, electrical contractors and public utility commissions.

What You'll Learn

  • How to install, maintain, troubleshoot and repair electrical distribution and transmission systems 
  • How to erect and maintain steel, wood or concrete poles, towers and wires 
  • How to splice, solder and insulate conductors and related wiring to connect power distribution and transmission networks 
  • How to inspect and test power lines and cables 
  • How to install and maintain street lighting systems 

Key Job Skills

  • Monitoring and critical thinking 
  • Safe work practices 
  • Troubleshooting 
  • Climbing, hydraulic buckets and rigging equipment  
  • Electrical systems repair and installation 

Technical Training

To get certified, you will need to sign up for technical training at an approved training provider in addition to on-the-job training. 

Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC for a comprehensive list of what programs are available in your trade at public and non-public schools. 

For a list of all approved non-public training providers, visit this page.

Technical Training 16 weeks over 4 years
Work-Based Training
6720 HOURS
General Skills
Analytical Curious Independent Logical Persistent

Program Updates:

Program Information and Resources

Exam Information and Resources

Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below.

Updates:

Information:

Updates:

  • To be implemented.

Updates:

  • To be implemented.

Updates:

  • March 2021: Program Update (2018 Red Seal Occupational Standard (RSOS))
  • A Comparative Analysis detailing changes between the 2013 National Occupational Analysis (NOA) and 2018 RSOS can be found here.

Information:

Challenge the Trade

If you have significant work experience in a trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may apply to challenge the certification. Learn more about How to Challenge a Skilled Trade.