Lineworker Journeyman

KNOXVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE; Knoxville (TN); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Knoxville Utilities Board (KUB) seeks skilled Lineworker Journeymen to construct, maintain, and repair electric transmission and distribution systems in outdoor settings. You will work with diverse crews, climb poles and towers, and operate bucket trucks while adhering to strict safety standards.

The role requires physical stamina, the ability to read blueprints and maps, and willingness to work rotating shifts, nights, weekends, and holidays, including storm restoration events.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Completion of an approved apprenticeship program.
• Thorough knowledge of methods, materials, tools, and equipment used in overhead and underground electrical systems.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, system maps and constructive drawings.
• Willingness to work overtime, respond to call-ins, and rotate shifts including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Demonstrated commitment to safety for self and crew.

Responsibilities

• Construct, maintain, and repair electric transmission and distribution systems.
• Work with crews across multiple linework disciplines including Overhead, Network, Substation, Underground, and Meter Services.
• Climb poles and towers, set poles, trim trees, and operate bucket trucks and line equipment.
• Work near energized lines using rubber gloves, sleeves, and hot line tools with proper clearances.
• Perform work in confined spaces, underground vaults, manholes, and at heights over 100 feet.
• Read maps, sketches, and prints to safely complete assignments.
• Follow safety procedures and use PPE to protect crew and the public.

Skills

Physical stamina

Blueprint reading

Teamwork

Safety awareness

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Approved apprenticeship program

Tools

Class A driver’s license

Job description

Classification: Lineworker Journeyman

Work Hours: 40+ hours / week: rotational – shifts may vary

About KUB: KUB is one of the largest public utilities in the country providing safe, reliable, and affordable electric, gas, water, wastewater, and fiber services to more than 520,000 customers in Knoxville and parts of seven surrounding counties. We are looking for employees who want to be a part of a mission-driven organization with strong values that support a skilled, diverse, and inclusive workforce.

About the Role: KUB is looking for skilled, safety-focused Lineworker Journeymen to help construct, maintain, and repair the electric transmission and distribution systems that keep our community running. In this hands‑on role, you’ll work outdoors with a variety of crews performing essential line work across multiple areas of the electric system.

In this role, you will:

• Construct, maintain, and repair electric transmission and distribution systems
• Work with crews across multiple disciplines in the Linework craft such as Overhead, Network, Substation, Underground, and Meter Services
• Climb poles and towers, set poles, trim trees, and operate bucket trucks and other line equipment
• Work on or near energized distribution lines using rubber gloves, sleeves, and hot line tools while maintaining minimum approach distances
• Perform work in confined spaces, underground manholes and vaults, and at heights exceeding 100 feet
• Read and interpret maps, sketches, and prints to safely complete work assignments
• Follow all safety procedures and properly use required PPE to protect the crew and the public

Work Environment: This role requires working outdoors in all weather conditions and responding to system outages and emergencies. Hours may include nights, weekends, holidays, and extended shifts during storm restoration and emergency events. Employees may also be required to remain on the job for scheduled clearances or report to work when called during emergency conditions.

Qualifications

• Requires heavy physical work including, but not limited to lifting up to 60 pounds frequently, bending, stooping, squatting, and operating equipment requiring physical strength and endurance. Requires ability to climb poles and work from extreme heights up to and exceeding 100′ in bucket trucks and work in confined spaces such as vaults and manholes. Requires physical stamina to work for extended periods of time during emergencies and in extreme weather conditions.

Minimum Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Completion of an approved apprenticeship program
• Thorough knowledge of methods, materials, tools, and equipment used in the maintenance and construction of an overhead and underground electrical system
• Have and maintain a valid Class A driver’s license
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, system maps and constructive drawings
• Willingness and demonstrated ability to work overtime, respond to call‑in, work extended periods during system outages and events, and work rotating shifts including nights, weekends, and holidays
• Demonstrated ability to work in areas requiring attention to personal safety and safety of others
• Good teams skills and ability to work in a crew setting
• Please note that due to job responsibilities, KUB does not provide immigration sponsorship for and/or based on this position.

Preferred Requirements

• Advanced working knowledge and experience with network electric systems, lead cable splicing, underground electric systems and installation of substation equipment
• Experience with Distribution Automation
• Experience with installing OPGW and ADSS Fiber Optic Cable

Selection Process

• Phase 2 – Experience, training, and education evaluation
• Phase 3 – Interview with department representatives
• Phase 4 – Written, performance, and behavioral exercises
• Phase 5 – Background Investigation
• Phase 6 – Physical assessment and/or drug screen

*KUB is part of the Tennessee Drug Free Workplace Program

If special accommodations are needed at any phase of the selection process, please notify Human Resources in advance.

Knoxville Utilities Board is an Equal Opportunity Employer