Powerline Operator

POSITION SUMMARY

The equipment operator position involves heavy equipment operation in the construction and maintenance and repair of electrical overhead power lines.

The candidate will possess considerable heavy equipment operation skills with experience and depth in constructing, repairing, and maintaining medium voltage (3) phase electrical overhead and underground distributions systems with associated utility equipment. Will work under the direction of a Line Crew Foreman.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

•  Assisting crew members and preventive and corrective maintenance for distribution systems up to 34.5kV and secondary distribution with the utilization of a Derrick & Pressure Digger.
•  Ability to follow safe directions while handling various types of heavy suspended loads.
•  Works safely while performing new construction, maintenance, or repair work of energized and de -energized overhead work
•  Properly inspects rubber goods and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
•  Understands when to wear personal protective equipment
•  Strings overhead wire
•  Sets poles and anchors
•  Assists with installing transformers, lightening arrestors, cutouts, cross-arms, insulators, switches, and switchgear
•  Frequently works with energized medium voltage systems requiring skill and care to protect the lives of themselves and others.
•  Assists in replacing fuses in transformers and clears faulted circuits
•  Maintains company vehicles, equipment, and tools while keeping them in good working order
•  Able to perform rigorous physical labor
•  Understand basic rigging, hand lines, and lineman knot tying
•  Understand the proper use and maintenance of hand tools
•  Possess a basic knowledge of materials used in line work
•  Able to identify primary and secondary voltage on a circuit
•  Capable of performing basic bucket rescue/escape
•  Understands the basic concepts of equipment set up and grounding
•  Capable of working at heights and/or confined spaces
•  Understands minimum approach distance
•  Understands excavation requirements
•  Understands Flag and Tag procedures
•  Capable of checking voltage on transformers
•  Capable of utilizing a hand line
•  Able to identify different types of materials used in line work
•  Must be able to work outside, frequently in inclement weather
•  Does other related work as required to complete the job

QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

COMPETENCIES

• Prioritizes accident prevention, consistently follows safety protocols, and promotes a culture of “zero incidents.”
• Deep understanding of medium-voltage distribution equipment, proper setup, grounding techniques, and heavy machinery operation.
• Meticulously inspects equipment, recognizes potential hazards or defects, and ensures precise execution of tasks.
• Quickly diagnoses equipment issues or line faults and implements corrective actions under high-pressure conditions.
• Works effectively with linemen, foremen, and ground crew; communicates clearly and supports shared goals.
• Conveys instructions and safety information clearly, both verbally and in writing; listens actively and confirms understanding.
• Maintains endurance for rigorous outdoor labor, including lifting, carrying, and operating equipment for extended periods.
• Adjusts to changing job requirements, weather conditions, and emergency response situations with composure.
• Demonstrates punctuality, takes ownership of assigned tasks, and follows through to completion.
• Embraces new technologies and procedures, seeks feedback, and continuously improves on-the-job performance.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, CERTIFICATIONS

•  2-4 years Pressure and Digger Derrik experience
•  Able to operate heavy equipment used in powerline construction
•  Possess a valid Class A Commercial Driver’s License
•  Able to read/write and communicate effectively
•  Able to lift in-excess of 50 lbs.
•  Willing to work over-time when requested
•  High School Diploma/GED or higher level

Both mental and physical labor are a part of this job. Working conditions could be indoor or outdoor and the job may be subject to extreme weather conditions. Some light to moderate travel is possible.