The Powerline Lineman is responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of overhead electrical distribution and transmission systems. This role requires extensive experience working with high-voltage powerlines, a strong commitment to safety, and the ability to work effectively as part of a crew in demanding outdoor environments.
Job Summary
The Powerline Lineman is responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of overhead electrical distribution and transmission systems. This role requires extensive experience working with high-voltage powerlines, a strong commitment to safety, and the ability to work effectively as part of a crew in demanding outdoor environments.
Key Responsibilities
Line Installation
- Assist with the construction of new overhead powerlines, including setting poles, stringing conductors, and installing transformers, insulators, crossarms, and related hardware.
Maintenance & Repair
- Perform routine inspections, maintenance, and repairs on existing overhead powerlines and associated equipment.
- Troubleshoot electrical faults, replace damaged components, and perform preventive maintenance to ensure system reliability.
Storm & Emergency Response
- Respond to emergency situations such as outages caused by storms, accidents, or equipment failures.
- Work safely and efficiently to restore service and minimize customer downtime.
Safety Compliance
- Adhere to all company safety policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
- Properly use personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow established safety protocols at all times.
- Participate in safety meetings, Job Safety Analyses (JSAs), and hazard assessments.
Equipment Operation
- Safely operate specialized equipment including bucket trucks, digger derricks, tensioners, and other line construction equipment.
- Perform work at elevated heights using appropriate fall protection systems.
Documentation & Reporting
- Accurately complete work orders, inspection reports, and required documentation.
- Maintain records of work performed, materials used, and equipment inspections.
Team Collaboration
- Work closely with foremen, apprentices, groundmen, and other crew members to coordinate tasks and meet project objectives.
- Communicate effectively with supervisors and team members to ensure safe and efficient job execution.
Customer Interaction
- Interact professionally with customers, landowners, and other stakeholders to obtain access, address concerns, and communicate work activities.
Training & Continuous Improvement
- Maintain current knowledge of industry best practices, safety standards, and technological advancements.
- Identify opportunities for improved safety, efficiency, and productivity and provide feedback to supervision.
Qualifications
Qualifications and Education Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent required; completion of a recognized lineman training program strongly preferred.
- Minimum of 4 years of experience as a lineman in the electrical utility or powerline industry.
- Strong knowledge of overhead electrical distribution and transmission systems.
- Thorough understanding of safety practices and regulatory requirements related to high-voltage line work.
- Ability to climb poles and work safely at heights using fall protection equipment.
- Proficiency operating bucket trucks, digger derricks, and other line construction equipment.
- Holds a Journeyman Electrical Distribution Systems License, including Transmission Lines (EL-1J), or equivalent.
- Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record required; ability to obtain and maintain a CDL if required.
- Ability to successfully pass a background check, pre-employment drug and alcohol screening, and Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) check.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions, including remote or rugged terrain.
- Ability to work extended hours, rotating schedules, and emergency call-outs as required.
Work Environment
- This position is primarily field-based and performed outdoors in varying weather conditions.
- Frequent standing, walking, pulling, pushing, manual dexterity, and reaching are required.
- This is a full-time position with work hours that may vary based on operational needs.
Physical Demands
- Prolonged standing, walking, climbing, reaching, and manual handling of tools and materials.
- Ability to work at elevated heights and in physically demanding environments.
- Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull objects weighing up to 100 pounds.
- Ability to perform strenuous physical activity for extended periods.
Travel
- Regular travel within a designated service area is expected, with occasional extended travel as required.
This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Duties and responsibilities may change at any time with or without notice.