Equipment Operator

PowerGrid Services; Tennessee; On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

PowerGrid Services is seeking an experienced Heavy Equipment Operator to perform field construction and maintenance on energized and de-energized transmission systems. You will operate trucks and crane-equipped machinery, read blueprints, and follow safety protocols in various outdoor environments.

Applicants must have a valid Class A CDL, NCCCO or NCCER crane certification, and a minimum of 3 years of transmission or heavy equipment experience.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years field experience in transmission or heavy equipment operations.
• Valid Class A CDL required.
• Crane Certification (NCCCO or NCCER) required.
• Ability to read and communicate effectively in English.
• Willingness to travel long distances on short notice.
• Willingness to work extended hours in various locations.
• Ability to lift in excess of 50 lbs.
• Willingness to glove/work high-voltage transmission lines.
• Availability to work overtime when requested.

Responsibilities

• Operate trucks of various sizes and weights for loading, hauling, and unloading equipment, materials, and supplies.
• Operate construction and power equipment including digger trucks, backhoes, man-lifts, dump trucks, road graters, front-end loaders, hydraulic excavators, skid steers, and mechanized brooms.
• Apply knowledge of crane/boom signals, blocks and tackle, wire rope, synthetic rope, slings, safe working loads, and proper rigging procedures.
• Perform safe construction, maintenance, and repair work on energized and de-energized transmission systems.
• String overhead wire and set poles and anchors.
• Troubleshoot issues on transmission systems, including high-voltage energized lines.
• Maintain company vehicles, tools, and equipment in good working condition.
• Perform rigorous physical labor in various field conditions.
• Identify transmission primary and secondary voltages and understand induced voltage.
• Apply grounding procedures and proper use of phasing sticks.
• Gain knowledge of bare hand work on 44KV to 500KV systems.
• Understand line clearance requirements and wire sizing.
• Operate wire tensioner equipment and perform heavy lifting and rigging tasks.
• Read and interpret blueprints and understand equipment setup and grounding.
• Work at heights and in confined spaces.
• Phase out lines using phasing sticks and understand recloser operations.
• Follow minimum approach distance and flag/tag procedures.
• Perform basic bucket rescue and escape procedures.
• Conduct effective pre-job and tailgate briefings.
• Inspect rubber goods, cover-up materials, and PPE.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Skills

Heavy equipment operation

Rigging and lifting

Communication skills

Leadership

Job description

Job Duties And Responsibilities

• Operate trucks of various sizes and weights for loading, hauling, and unloading equipment, materials, and supplies.
• Operate trucks of various sizes and weights for loading, hauling, and unloading equipment, materials, and supplies.
• Operate construction and power equipment including digger trucks, backhoes, man-lifts, dump trucks, road graters, front-end loaders, hydraulic excavators, skid steers, and mechanized brooms.
• Apply knowledge of crane/boom signals, blocks and tackle, wire rope, synthetic rope, slings, safe working loads, and proper rigging procedures.
• Perform safe construction, maintenance, and repair work on energized and de-energized transmission systems.
• String overhead wire and set poles and anchors.
• Troubleshoot issues on transmission systems, including high-voltage energized lines.
• Maintain company vehicles, tools, and equipment in good working condition.
• Perform rigorous physical labor in various field conditions.
• Identify transmission primary and secondary voltages and understand induced voltage.
• Apply grounding procedures and proper use of phasing sticks.
• Gain knowledge of bare hand work on 44KV to 500KV systems.
• Understand line clearance requirements and wire sizing.
• Operate wire tensioner equipment and perform heavy lifting and rigging tasks.
• Read and interpret blueprints and understand equipment setup and grounding.
• Work at heights and in confined spaces.
• Phase out lines using phasing sticks and understand recloser operations.
• Follow minimum approach distance and flag/tag procedures.
• Perform basic bucket rescue and escape procedures.
• Conduct effective pre-job and tailgate briefings.
• Inspect rubber goods, cover-up materials, and PPE.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications And Job Requirements

• Minimum of 3 years field experience in transmission or heavy equipment operations.
• Valid Class A CDL required.
• Crane Certification (NCCCO or NCCER) required.
• Ability to read and communicate effectively in English.
• Willingness to travel long distances on short notice.
• Willingness to work extended hours in various locations.
• Ability to lift in excess of 50 lbs.
• Willingness to glove/work high-voltage transmission lines.
• Availability to work overtime when requested.

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Strong understanding of heavy equipment operation and maintenance.
• Knowledge of rigging, lifting, and safe load handling procedures.
• Familiarity with transmission systems and energized line safety.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical diagrams.
• Proficiency in equipment setup, grounding, and line clearance standards.
• Strong attention to detail and safety compliance.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Effective communication and leadership skills.
• High level of professionalism and integrity.

Working Conditions And Physical Requirements

• Outdoor work in all types of weather conditions, including inclement weather.
• Ability to lift more than 50 pounds.
• Frequent bending, climbing, stooping, standing, and lifting.
• Repetitive hand, wrist, and finger movements.
• Close visual acuity required for detailed work and safety compliance.
• Ability to work at heights and in confined spaces.

Key Attributes

• Safety-Minded Adheres to all safety protocols and PPE requirements.
• Team-Oriented Works cooperatively with crew members and leadership.
• Leadership-Ready Capable of leading and mentoring others.
• Problem-Solver Analyzes issues and implements effective solutions.
• Professional Demonstrates integrity, accountability, and reliability.

• This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Duties and responsibilities may be adjusted to meet the operational needs of the business.