72203

Electrical power line and cable workers

TEER 2 — College diploma, apprenticeship (2+ yrs) or supervisory

Express Entry skill level: Yes
Regulated in Québec: Yes
In demand in Manitoba: Yes

Classification

Trades, transport & equipment operators

7 › 72 › 722 › 7220

Definition

Electrical power line and cable workers construct, maintain and repair overhead and underground electrical power transmission and distribution systems. They are employed by electric power generation, transmission and distribution companies, electrical contractors and public utility commissions. Apprentices are also included in this unit group.

Main duties

This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Install, maintain, troubleshoot and repair electrical distribution and transmission systems including overhead and underground power lines and cables, insulators, conductors, lightning arrestors, switches, transformers and other associated equipment
Erect and maintain steel, wood or concrete poles, towers and guy wires
Splice, solder and insulate conductors and related wiring to connect power distribution and transmission networks using splicing tools, related electrical equipment and tools
Inspect and test overhead and underground power lines and cables and auxiliary equipment using electrical test equipment
Climb ladders or operate hydraulic buckets when working aloft on poles and towers, or work in confined spaces such as trenches and tunnels to install power lines and cables and associated equipment
Install and maintain street lighting systems
Communicate with other workers to coordinate the preparation and completion of work assignments.

Example job titles

•apprentice lineman/woman - electric power systems
•cable installer - electrical power
•cable splicer - electrical power
•construction lineman/woman - electrical power line
•power line patroller
•power lineman/woman
•powerline technician

Overview

Under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021, NOC 72203 designates Electrical power line and cable workers. These professionals construct, maintain, and repair overhead and underground electrical power transmission and distribution lines and cables. Their primary responsibilities include installing and maintaining light and power support structures, erecting towers, stringing conductors, splicing and terminating cables, and troubleshooting electrical distribution systems to ensure power grid stability.

This occupation falls under TEER Category 2, making it eligible for major Canadian immigration pathways, including the Express Entry Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and various Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). To qualify for this role in Canada, completion of secondary school and a four-year apprenticeship program, or a combination of industry courses and over four years of work experience, is typically required. Trade certification is compulsory in most provinces and territories, and obtaining a Red Seal endorsement allows for interprovincial mobility.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please refer to official IRCC and ESDC guidelines for updated immigration procedures.

Educational overview summarizing this occupation. Always confirm against the official NOC profile and IRCC before relying on it.

Commonly confused codes

72204Telecommunications line and cable installers and repairers

Verify this NOC with DUTYPROOF →Check program eligibility →

Occupation data: Statistics Canada / ESDC — National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021.