Technical Services Technician I

Rio Grande Electric Cooperative; El Paso (TX); On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Rio Grande Electric Cooperative seeks a skilled field technician to support distribution and metering infrastructure in the El Paso area. The role involves inspecting substations, installing and testing metering equipment, and maintaining distribution assets.

Ideal candidates have an associate degree or equivalent experience, familiarity with test equipment such as multi-meters, and the ability to work at heights. Valid Texas driver’s license and CPR/first aid certification preferred.

Qualifications

• Associate degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience in utility environment preferred.
• Familiar with distribution/transmission equipment (reclosers, regulators, capacitors).
• Knowledge of test equipment (multi-meters, meter test boards).
• Ability to perform substation inspections and install/test metering equipment.
• Must obtain first aid/CPR certification.

Responsibilities

• Perform substation inspections.
• Assist in building, installation and testing of primary and secondary metering equipment.
• Inventory parts and equipment as needed.
• Perform building maintenance and repairs of equipment at various heights.

Skills

Heavy lifting

Inspections at height

Interpersonal skills

English communication

Microsoft Office

Driver's license

Education

Associate degree in Applied Sciences with Electronics certificate

Tools

Multi-meters

Meter test boards

Electronic control equipment

Test equipment

Job description

Job Knowledge, Training and Experience

• Associates Degree in Applied Sciences with Certificate in Electronics or a related field or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Previous related utility experience preferred.
• Must be familiar with special equipment utilized in distribution and transmission systems such as reclosers, regulators, capacitors, and other equipment.
• Must have operating knowledge of various types of test equipment such as multi-meters and meter test boards.
• Working knowledge of electronic control equipment is preferred.
• Perform substation inspections.
• Have knowledge of satellite radio and satellite internet systems. Ability to inventory various types or parts and equipment.
• Assist in the building, installation and testing of primary and secondary metering equipment.
• Ability to perform building maintenance as necessary.
• Must be or become certified in first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Abilities and Skills

• Some heavy lifting may be required.
• Must be able to complete inspections, installations and repairs of equipment at various heights.
• Must possess good interpersonal skills including the ability to maintain a harmonious relationship with all Cooperative personnel and the members.
• Must possess oral and written communications skills in the English language.
• Must possess good computer skills with proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Must be able to maintain confidential information.
• Must possess a valid Texas Driver’s License and be insurable with the Cooperative’s insurance carrier.

Physical Effort

• Work may be performed in an awkward position including stooping, bending, crawling, climbing, etc. in the installation, repair and service of wiring and apparatus.
• Work may include the use of ladders ranging in height up to 20 feet.
• Some work may be in a confined area.
• Frequently lifts materials and equipment weighing up to fifty pounds.
• Occasionally lifts items that weigh up to 100 pounds.
• Excellent hand-eye coordination is required.
• Must be able to dig small trenches to run conduit and cabling.

Working Conditions

• Must be able to work under adverse weather conditions such as extreme heat and cold, high winds or stormy conditions.
• Non-exempt position.
• To ensure all employees are provided with drug free and alcohol free working conditions, pre-employment, post accident, reasonable cause and random drug and alcohol tests are conducted on all employees.

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Rio Grande Electric Cooperative, Inc. (RGEC) was organized in 1945 to enhance the quality of life for rural residents by providing electric service where none existed. Today, at over 35,000 square miles, RGEC has the largest service territory of any electric cooperative in the contiguous United States, serving 18 counties in Texas, and two counties in New Mexico. While it still serves rural areas, many metropolitan areas have expanded into RGEC’s territory, which now includes hospitals, schools, and urban housing developments.

The Cooperative was also selected by the military to be the electrical maintenance provider for Fort Bliss, El Paso, and Laughlin Air Force Base, Del Rio. RGEC maintains offices in Alpine, Brackettville, Carrizo Springs, Dell City, El Paso, and Fort Stockton, with the Brackettville office serving as corporate headquarters.

Mission

RGEC is committed to providing its members safe and reliable energy services through the efficient use of resources, highly skilled employees, and technology.

Motto

Empowering communities, enhancing lives.

Values & Vision

RGEC proudly serves members based on a foundation of integrity and excellence, while striving for the betterment of communities and quality of life for those in the region it is privileged to serve.

Seven Cooperative Principles

Voluntary and Open Membership | Democratic Member Control | Members’ Economic Participation Autonomy and Independence | Education, Training and Information | Cooperation Among Cooperatives | Concern for Community

Rio Grande Electric Cooperative, Inc. is an equal opportunity provider and employer.