Storm - Wire Down Watcher - Texas

Techserv; Dallas (TX); On-site; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

TechServ is seeking wire-down watchers to respond to significant weather events and federal disasters affecting our utility partners in the United States and Puerto Rico. This temporary position focuses on monitoring downed power lines and other electrical hazards until crews can repair them, with assignments ranging from one day to several weeks and travel often required.

Expect to work long hours, including nights and weekends, with no benefits provided.

Qualifications

• Must be able to work long hours, including nights and weekends.
• Strong situational awareness and prioritize safety at all times.
• Excellent communication with public and utility personnel.
• Reliable transportation and ability to travel on short notice.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to pass MVR background check.

Responsibilities

• Guard downed power lines and electrical hazards to protect the public.
• Set up safety perimeters using cones, tape, or barriers.
• Communicate hazards and safety instructions clearly to public.
• Report status and location of downed wires to utility dispatch/crews.
• Remain at location until relieved by a utility crew or supervisor.
• Document changes in situation or additional hazards.

Skills

Public safety

Safety awareness

Communication skills

Driver's license

MVR background

Travel availability

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Wire Down Watcher

Location: Event Dependent

Department: TechServ Storm Services

Reports To: TechServ Storm Manager

Job Summary:

TechServ is seeking wire-down watchers to respond to significant weather events and federal disasters affecting our utility partners in the United States and Puerto Rico. This temporary position requires workers to ensure public safety by monitoring downed power lines and other electrical hazards until utility crews can perform repairs. Assignments can last from one day to several weeks and often require travel.

Key Responsibilities:

The duties described below represent the essential regular functions during storm restoration events. This description does not exclude other assigned duties. Wire-down watcher positions are temporary, paid per work performed, and do not include benefits, vacation, or holiday pay.

Job Responsibilities:

• Ensure the public's safety by guarding downed power lines and other electrical hazards.
• Set up safety perimeters around downed wires and other hazards using cones, tape, or other barriers.
• Communicate hazards and safety instructions clearly to the public and keep unauthorized individuals away from danger zones.
• Report the status and location of downed wires to utility dispatch and repair crews.
• Remain at the assigned location until relieved by a utility crew or supervisor.
• Document and report any changes in the situation or additional hazards.

Job Requirements:

• Ability to work long hours, including nights and weekends, in various weather conditions.
• Strong situational awareness and ability to prioritize safety at all times.
• Excellent communication skills to interact with the public and utility personnel.
• Reliable transportation and willingness to travel on short notice.
• Valid driver's license and ability to pass a Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) background check.

Qualifications:

• Education: A high school diploma or equivalent is preferred.
• Experience: Minimum age of 21 to drive a TechServ rented vehicle. Previous experience in a safety or security role is a plus.

Physical Requirements:

• Standing for extended periods.
• Ability to set up and remove safety barriers.
• Ability to handle stressful situations calmly and courteously.
• Requires working under some stressful conditions to meet safety needs.

Other Requirements:

• Possess a smartphone with a data plan for communication and reporting.
• Must be available for the work hours required by the utility company's schedule.
• Must be available to work until the completion of storm response and release by the utility.
• Be sufficiently fit for duty and able to stand and monitor locations for long periods.
• Preferred: CPR/First Aid Certified.

Vehicle Agreement:

If using a personal vehicle:

• Summer Storm Event: 4WD or AWD Truck or SUV Preferred.
• Winter Storm Event: 4WD or AWD Truck or SUV Required.

Work Conditions:

• Travel is expected to constitute approximately 100% of the role's responsibilities.

About Us:

TechServ is a rapidly growing consulting and engineering services company in Tyler, TX.