Power Line Technician Pre-Apprentice

FortisBC; Oliver; On-site; CAD 55,000 - 61,000; Full time

Job summary

FortisBC in British Columbia seeks a Pre-apprentice Power Line Technician to join a line crew from the ground. This semi-skilled, temporary role provides hands-on training under a journeyperson and is designed to prepare candidates for full-time apprenticeship within six months.

Responsibilities include assisting with pole framing, right‑of‑way maintenance, line patrol, and safe operation of vehicles and tools.

Qualifications

• Must have English 12, Math 11 and Physics 11.
• Holder of a valid Class 3 driver’s license with air brake endorsement.
• Ability to carry out a variety of physically demanding duties.
• Knowledge and ability to handle, use and care for hand and power tools.

Responsibilities

• Performs duties as a Lineperson’s trades helper—some skills acquired by experience or on-the-job training.
• Carries out maintenance and construction work as directed (pole framing, right-of-way clearing, road maintenance, line patrol).
• Supports higher classifications to gain skills and experience.
• Inspection and safe operation of vehicles and mobile equipment.
• Handles, uses and cares for hand and power tools and equipment.

Skills

Physical stamina

Use of hand tools

Education

English 12, Math 11, Physics 11

Pre-Apprentice Electrical diploma or equivalent

Class 1 driver's license with air brake end.

First Aid (OFA Level 1-3) preferred

WHMIS preferred

Job description

Branch: Electric

Affiliation: IBEW

Employment Status: Full-Time Temporary

Salary: $41.95 Hourly

Short-term Incentive Eligible: No

Workplace Flexibility: No

Temp Duration: 6 months

Posting End Date: Open until filled

As the province’s largest energy provider with more than 100 years of knowledge and experience, we proudly deliver renewable energy, natural gas, electricity and propane to 1.3 million customers.

We’re actively seeking new talent to join our mission of of delivering a stronger energy future in B.C. As one of BC’s Top Employers with a diverse team of over 2,700 employees, we are committed to a safe and inclusive culture where each of us can connect, belong, and grow. Join us, and together, let’s shape a brighter future for B.C.

Position Overview

The duties of a Pre-apprentice Power Line Technician are to assist other members of a line crew from the ground. This is a semi-skilled position requiring the supervision of a tradesperson. It is also a learning position where one can improve his/her skills or gain new skills. Climbing and aerial bucket work will be permitted for training purposes while under the supervision of a journeyperson.

A pre-apprentice lineperson reports to a staff supervisor or delegate and normally works under the direction of a higher classification employee. The pre-apprenticeship training program is a structured temporary position for up to 6 months. Candidates are provided with in-house and hands-on job training. Upon successful completion of the pre-apprenticeship program, candidates may be considered for full-time permanent apprenticeship positions with FortisBC.

Responsibilities

• Performs duties as a Lineperson’s trades helper which requires some skills as acquired by experience and/or on-the-job training and instruction.
• Carries out maintenance and construction work as directed, including pole framing, right-of-way clearing and maintenance, road maintenance, line patrol, etc.
• Carries out assignments normally carried out by lower classification employees or those of a higher classification to gain skills and experience.
• Inspection and safe operation of vehicles & mobile equipment.
• Handles, uses and cares for hand and power tools and equipment as required.
• In addition to the duties and responsibilities above the pre-apprentice lineperson performed all duties of the Labourer classification.

Requirements

• Candidates must currently hold all of the following minimum education requirements: English 12, Math 11 and Physics 11.
• Holder of a valid Class 3 driver’s license with air brake endorsement.
• Ability to carry out a variety of duties requiring significant physical effort.
• Knowledge and ability to handle, use and care for hand and power tools and equipment.

Other Qualifications

• Post Secondary Pre-Apprentice Electrical diploma or equivalent course is preferred
• Occupational First Aid Level 1, 2 or 3 is preferred
• Transportation of Dangerous goods is preferred
• WHMIS is preferred
• Any other applicable skills or educational achievements that directly relate to the trade will be acknowledged
• Class 1 driver's license with air brake endorsement is preferred

Additional Information

• Candidates that are successful throughout the temporary 6 month pre-apprentice period, may be considered for full-time permanent power line technician apprentice positions.
• Subject to operational requirements, successful candidates may be required to work from various headquarters within our service territory.
• Please note that this is a developmental, entry-level role into the power line technician trade. Applicants that have attended PLT trades school (1st, 2nd or 3rd year), in addition to being indentured as an apprentice will not be considered for this pre-apprentice opportunity.
• The recruitment process for this position will include the following: video prescreen, formalized interview, skills demonstration, employment references, criminal record check, drug testing and physical assessment.
• Residency requirements: The successful candidate must adhere to the residency requirements of this position.
• Overtime requirements: This role may have overtime requirements based on operational needs.
• Travel/Out of Town requirements: This role may have travel/out of town requirements based on operational needs.
• Please reach out to Talent Acquisition if clarification on role requirements is needed prior to applying.

Our engaging workplace offers a wide range of challenging opportunities, while being safe, inclusive, and diverse. We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, while supporting life-long career development. We also encourage volunteerism and nourish the need to give back to your community.

To learn more about the recruitment process with FortisBC, please visit the You’re Applying. What now? page for additional information.

FortisBC acknowledges and respects Indigenous Peoples in Canada, on whose Traditional Territories we all live and work. FortisBC is committed to Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples and is guided by our Statement of Indigenous Principles.