Pole Testing Technician

REI Utility Services; Athens (TX); On-site; USD 22,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

REI Utility Services in Athens, TX is seeking an Entry Level Pole Testing Field Technician to support pole inspections through visual checks, sounding, and excavation. This role is designed for newcomers and includes hands-on training in field procedures, safety, equipment use, documentation, and basic pole-condition assessment.

Employees will document inspections using digital systems, follow assigned routes and work orders, and assist with exposing below-ground portions.

Qualifications

• No prior utility pole inspection or pole-testing experience required.
• High school diploma or GED required.
• Ability and willingness to learn visual inspection, pole sounding, excavation, documentation, and safety procedures.
• Valid driver’s license with clean driving record if operating a company vehicle is part of duties.

Responsibilities

• Perform visual inspections of utility poles and identify observable conditions.
• Perform pole sounding using approved tools and methods.
• Perform excavation around utility poles as required for inspection and testing.
• Assist with exposing below-ground portions of poles for inspection by trained personnel.
• Backfill excavated areas and leave the site safe and orderly.
• Record required inspection information and field observations using company tools.
• Follow routes, maps, work orders, and daily field assignments.
• Safely use and maintain hand tools, excavation tools, sounding equipment, and field equipment.

Skills

Reliability

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Willingness to learn

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Department: Operations | Pole Testing
Job Title: Pole Testing Field Technician – Entry Level
Reports To: Field Manager – Pole Testing
Location: Athens | Frequent Travel Required
FLSA Status: Full-Time, Non-Exempt (Hourly)

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Pole Testing Field Technician – Entry Level is an introductory field position responsible for supporting utility pole inspection activities through visual inspection, sounding, and excavation. This role is designed for employees who are new to pole testing and provides hands-on training in REI Utility Services' field procedures, safety requirements, equipment use, documentation, and basic pole-condition assessment. Employees in this role do not perform chemical handling or chemical treatment activities.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Perform visual inspections of utility poles and identify observable conditions in accordance with established inspection procedures.
• Perform pole sounding using approved tools and methods.
• Perform excavation around utility poles as required for inspection and testing activities.
• Assist with exposing below-ground portions of poles for inspection by appropriately trained personnel.
• Backfill excavated areas and leave the worksite safe and orderly.
• Learn to recognize common pole conditions, deterioration, damage, and conditions requiring further evaluation.
• Follow assigned routes, maps, work orders, and daily field assignments.
• Accurately record required inspection information and field observations using company-approved documentation and digital systems.
• Safely use and maintain authorized hand tools, excavation tools, sounding equipment, and field equipment.
• Maintain accountability for assigned tools, equipment, PPE, and company property.
• Follow all REI safety procedures, client requirements, and PPE expectations.
• Immediately report unsafe conditions, unusual pole conditions, access issues, property concerns, damaged equipment, or questions.
• Work cooperatively with Apprentice and Certified Field Technicians, Field Applicators, Field Managers, and other assigned crew members.
• Participate in required safety meetings, field training, coaching, and competency development.
• Chemical handling, mixing, treatment, and application are outside the assigned scope of this position.
• Perform other duties consistent with the position as assigned.

REQUIRED EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• High school diploma or GED required.
• No prior utility pole inspection or pole-testing experience required.
• Previous outdoor, construction, utility, landscaping, excavation, or field-work experience preferred but not required.
• Ability and willingness to learn visual inspection, pole sounding, excavation, field documentation, and applicable safety procedures.
• Ability to follow instructions and perform assigned work under appropriate supervision.
• Ability to use or learn mobile devices, GPS/mapping tools, tablets/iPads, and digital reporting platforms.
• Strong reliability, attention to detail, communication skills, and willingness to receive coaching.
• Valid driver's license with a clean and insurable driving record required if operating a company vehicle is part of assigned duties.

PHYSICAL & FIELD REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to work outdoors for extended periods in varying weather, terrain, and environmental conditions.
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, stooping, kneeling, digging, and repetitive movement.
• Ability to safely use hand tools and field equipment associated with assigned pole inspection and testing activities.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Frequent travel and overnight stays may be required depending on project location.
• Must wear required PPE and comply with company and client safety requirements.

CAREER DEVELOPMENT

The Entry-Level Technician is the introductory position in the Pole Testing field career path. Employees may be considered for advancement to Pole Testing Field Technician – Apprentice after demonstrating proficiency in safe work practices, visual inspection, sounding, excavation, documentation, equipment use, reliability, and overall job performance. Advancement is based on demonstrated competency, completion of required training, readiness for additional responsibilities, and business needs; it is not automatic based solely on tenure.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT

REI Utility Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or any o