Line Foreman

Position Summary:

Responsible for the scheduling of repair, maintenance, and installation of power lines both above and underground, and the installation of transformers and meters. Possess positive leadership qualities and show an ability to plan, supervise, and work with people and tools, with an interest in teaching people working on the crew. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Demonstrate mastery and continue duties of Apprentice 1, 2, 3 and 4.


2. Safely construct, replace, repair, and perform maintenance of electric distribution lines, structures, and equipment.


3. Oversee and instruct the line crew to ensure compliance with proper safety, regulatory, and operational procedures.


4. Assist with planning and scheduling of work assignments.


5. Assist with performance evaluations and career progression/development of each subordinate.


6. Promote a safety-first workplace by using required PPE, following company safe work practices, and setting the tone for a safe work environment.


7. Inspect job sites to ensure proper adherence to standards, regulations, and safety codes.


8. Confer with the District Supervisor, owners, contractors, or design professionals to discuss and resolve matters, such as work procedures, complaints, or construction problems.


9. Study job specifications to determine appropriate construction methods.


10. Conduct line patrol activities and report maintenance needs as necessary.


11. Must be able to operate vehicles and heavy equipment, including line trucks, boom trucks, underground trenchers, digger trucks, and other associated equipment safely and proficiently.


12. Ensure setup and removal of barricades, flags, and signs for traffic control and work zone protection are in compliance with safety procedures at all job sites.


13. Ensure the operation and maintenance of transportation equipment, tools, and working equipment are in proper condition, and report deficiencies or repairs needed.


14. Ensure all tools, equipment, and unused materials are returned and replaced on vehicles after the completion of a job or the day’s work.


15. Must be able to report to work within 20 minutes of being notified that services are required when performing stand-by duties or when additional services are required.


16. Responsible for compliance with the Cooperative's safety rules, safety policies, and safety procedures.


17. Provide training and supervision to other members of the line crew.


18. Demonstrate regular and prompt attendance.


19. In addition to these responsibilities, may be assigned by the District Operations Supervisor to perform other duties.

Education:

High school diploma or equivalency is required.  Completion of an apprenticeship lineman program is required. Completion of advanced lineman training/lineman certification required. Must possess knowledge of SCADA operations. Must possess or be able to obtain CPR and First Aid certification.

Experience:

Eight to ten years of experience in electric utility distribution operations, including distribution system construction and maintenance is required.

Job Knowledge:

Must possess knowledge of RUS line specifications, National Electric Code, National Electric Safety Code, and OSHA Rules and Regulations. Prior experience in basic technical utility knowledge is required.

Abilities and Skills:

1. Must possess a valid Texas CDL (Class A) license with a good driving record.


2. Must be able to communicate in English, both in written and oral forms, with the general public and co-workers.


3. Must be able to climb poles of all types and perform required jobs while on poles.


4. Must possess skills and abilities to perform all required jobs with the installation of materials, apparatus, and equipment used in the construction and maintenance of electric distribution lines.


5. Must be able to operate equipment, including bucket trucks, digger trucks, and other related equipment.


6. Must be able to lift 50 pounds or more, as necessary, without external assistance from personnel or mechanical aids.


7. Must be able to operate all electronic devices issued to employees, including, but not limited to, iPads and computers.


8. Must have sight to be able to see working conditions from a safety standpoint.


9. Must be able to effectively utilize a two-way radio to communicate duties and location.


10. Must be able to walk distances up to one mile in uneven terrain.

Working Environment:

This job operates in a field environment. This role routinely requires extended periods of bending, squatting, climbing, kneeling, pushing, pulling, and lifting in awkward positions. The majority of the work schedule will be performed traveling to and working at various field locations within the service territory each day. The individual must be willing to work in all adverse and inclement weather conditions, including helping with service restoration during storms. Overtime may be required at times of heavy workload.