Lead Electrician: 480V Systems & PLCs – Houston

Watco Dock & Rail, LLC; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Paid training

Watco University

Leadership development

Career advancement

Job summary

Watco Dock & Rail, LLC in Houston, TX is seeking a Lead Electrician to oversee maintenance, troubleshooting, and reliability of 480V three-phase electrical systems and automated manufacturing equipment. The ideal candidate has deep knowledge of NFPA 70E, PLCs, and VFDs, with a strong focus on safety and uptime.

This role leads electricians and maintenance staff, enforces LOTO, conducts predictive maintenance and power quality tests, and ensures NEC compliance.

Qualifications

• Active Master Electrician License in good standing with state/local licensing authority.
• 8+ years progressive electrical experience in commercial/industrial settings.
• 5+ years specifically handling 480V 3-phase systems.
• Must possess driver’s license and be insurable to operate company vehicles.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a valid TWIC card.
• OSHA 30 NFPA 70E Electrical Safety Certification; Thermography Level I preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead installation, testing, troubleshooting, and maintenance of 480V three-phase distribution systems and MCCs.
• Perform phase balancing, power quality analysis, and harmonic filtering to ensure reliability.
• Install and troubleshoot VFDs, soft starters, motor starters, relays, and motors.
• Troubleshoot PLC-based automation by reading ladder logic and schematics.
• Lead NFPA 70E safety practices and enforce PPE requirements.
• Lead LOTO procedures during overhauls and maintenance activities.
• Perform preventive and predictive maintenance, including infrared thermography and insulation testing.
• Apply NEC Article 430 and 450 knowledge for proper installation and protection.
• Provide technical leadership to electricians and maintenance staff.
• Perform other duties as assigned by leadership.

Skills

Driver's license

Master Electrician License

8+ years electrical experience

480V 3-phase systems

TWIC card

OSHA 30 NFPA 70E

Thermography Level I

Education

High School diploma or GED

Job description

Watco Dock & Rail, LLC in Houston, TX is seeking a Lead Electrician to oversee maintenance, troubleshooting, and reliability of 480V three-phase electrical systems and automated manufacturing equipment. The ideal candidate has deep knowledge of NFPA 70E, PLCs, and VFDs, with a strong focus on safety and uptime.

This role leads electricians and maintenance staff, enforces LOTO, conducts predictive maintenance and power quality tests, and ensures NEC compliance.