The trucks
Utility trucks are rolling workshops. The chassis carries a boom, tools and often its own power for the job site.
| Truck | What it does | Typical setup |
|---|---|---|
| Bucket truck (aerial device) | Lifts lineworkers to overhead lines, poles and streetlights | Insulated boom and platform; heavier units on Class 7–8 chassis |
| Digger derrick | Drills pole holes and sets utility poles | Auger and derrick boom with outriggers |
| Cable reel and puller | Carries cable spools and pulls new power or fiber lines | Reel trailer or body with a hydraulic puller and tensioner |
| Vacuum excavator | Digs safely around buried gas, water and fiber lines | Water or air excavation with a debris tank |
| Pole hauler | Moves poles and long material to the site | Truck with an extendable pole trailer |
| Service and splicing body | Field repair and fiber splicing | Enclosed or open service body, sometimes climate-controlled |
The people and the jobs
Utility line work is a skilled trade learned through apprenticeship. Journey-level status usually takes 3 to 4 years, and pay rises with it.
Workers who drive heavy utility trucks usually need a CDL; storm crews crossing state lines must be certified for interstate driving and carry a current DOT medical card. Pay: BLS (utility lineworkers 2025; others May 2025).
Safety on the job
High voltage and height are the core hazards, and storm response adds long shifts in bad weather.
- The rulebook: OSHA 29 CFR 1910.269 covers electric power generation, transmission and distribution work.
- Approach distances: employers must set minimum approach distances to energized parts at least as large as the standard's tables.
- Fall protection: every worker in an aerial lift must use a travel restraint or personal fall arrest system.
- Boom insulation: test and inspect insulated booms and liners on schedule, and keep them clean.
- Storm work: plan for fatigue, roadside traffic and downed lines that may still be energized.
Fleet buyer spec checklist
The boom and body drive the spec. Choose the chassis to carry them, with room for tools and crew.
Resource kit
Utility & Telecom resource kit
Toolbox talks for your next crew meeting, the rules that apply most and the associations that train and represent the trade.
Toolbox talks
Links go to official and association sites. More: DOT Compliance Center · Buyer’s Guide · Parts & Maintenance
Utility & Telecom FAQ
What is a digger derrick?
A utility truck with a boom and auger that digs holes and sets utility poles.
Do bucket truck operators need a CDL?
Bucket trucks rated over 26,000 lb GVWR need a Class B CDL. Lighter units do not, though many employers still require one.
How close can a boom get to power lines?
It depends on the voltage. Unqualified workers must keep at least 10 feet from lines up to 50 kV and more for higher voltages. Qualified line workers follow the approach distances in OSHA 1910.269.
For truck manufacturers, dealers and upfitters
Reach this industry
Utilities buy through long-term fleet programs and value uptime, service coverage and upfitter partnerships.
- Sponsor this guide and storm-response stories.
- Feature aerial-device and digger-derrick builders in Spec & Upfit.
- Support lineworker apprenticeship and CDL training listings.
- Use the Proud Partner badge at utility fleet shows.