Utility Technical Training Instructor

TPI Global Solutions; Akron (OH); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

TPI Global Solutions is seeking an experienced Utility Technical Training Instructor to deliver classroom, hands-on, laboratory, and field-based training for apprentice and journeyman personnel across distribution lines, transmission lines, substations, and protection systems.

The role emphasizes safety, technical knowledge, and professional standards, with travel to various locations and facilities as required. Experience in utility training and strong communication skills are essential.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• 4+ years of relevant technical/field experience in the candidate's area of specialization.
• Strong hands-on experience in distribution linework, transmission linework, substation electrical work, or relay/protection and controls.
• Ability to train, coach, and mentor field personnel is preferred.
• Strong communication and presentation skills; ability to explain technical concepts clearly.

Responsibilities

• Deliver classroom, hands-on, laboratory, and field-based technical training.
• Train apprentices, journeyman-level employees, and experienced utility personnel.
• Demonstrate proper use of tools, equipment, vehicles, climbing equipment, rigging systems, and other utility equipment.
• Provide instruction on electrical theory, utility systems, equipment operation, construction, maintenance, troubleshooting, work methods, and safe work practices.
• Deliver training related to OSHA, NESC, NEC, NFPA 70E and applicable safety standards.
• Evaluate trainee performance through written assessments, demonstrations, field observations, and hands-on exercises.
• Develop and maintain lesson plans, training materials, assessments, and student records.

Skills

Distribution linework

Transmission linework

Substation electrical

Relay & protection

Hands-on training

Technical coaching

Presentation skills

Microsoft Office

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Training software

Office software

Job description

Utility Technical Training Instructor – Electrical / Power Systems

Job Type: Contract

Location: Multiple locations across PA, OH, MD, WV, and NJ

Travel: Up to 25–50% depending on assignment

Position Overview

We are seeking experienced utility professionals to support technical training programs for apprentices, journeyman-level employees, and other utility personnel.

The ideal candidate will have strong hands‑on experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Substation Electrical
• Relay & Controls / Protection

Candidates do NOT need experience in all four areas. Strong experience in one specialty is sufficient.

This position combines technical expertise with classroom, hands‑on, and field-based training. The instructor will help trainees develop the technical knowledge, practical skills, safety awareness, and professional standards required to work safely and effectively in the electric utility industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver classroom, hands‑on, laboratory, and field‑based technical training.
• Train apprentices, journeyman‑level employees, and experienced utility personnel.
• Demonstrate proper use of tools, equipment, vehicles, climbing equipment, rigging systems, and other utility equipment as applicable.
• Provide instruction on electrical theory, utility systems, equipment operation, construction, maintenance, troubleshooting, work methods, and safe work practices.
• Deliver training related to OSHA, NESC, NEC, NFPA 70E, company policies, and applicable utility safety standards.
• Evaluate trainee performance through written assessments, practical demonstrations, field observations, and hands‑on exercises.
• Provide coaching, mentoring, and constructive feedback to trainees.
• Develop and maintain lesson plans, training materials, assessments, and student records.
• Maintain accurate training and course‑completion records.
• Work collaboratively with other instructors and operational leaders to maintain consistency and quality across training programs.
• Stay current with utility technology, equipment, work methods, safety standards, and industry practices.
• Participate in safety initiatives, field observations, workforce development activities, and storm restoration efforts as required.
• Support training facilities, equipment, laboratory/simulation environments, and related materials.
• Travel to remote locations or company facilities as required.

Technical Specialties

Distribution Lines

Experience with distribution line construction and maintenance, including:

• Overhead and underground distribution systems
• Pole climbing and bucket truck operations
• Rigging and lineworker tools
• Conductors, crossarms, transformers, and associated equipment
• Distribution troubleshooting
• Safe work methods and utility construction practices

Transmission Lines

Experience with transmission line construction and maintenance, including:

• High‑voltage transmission systems
• Towers, poles, structures, conductors, and insulators
• Stringing, splicing, sagging, and conductor installation
• Rigging and crane operations
• Transmission and distribution safety practices

Substation Electrical

Experience with substation construction, maintenance, and operations, including:

• High‑voltage electrical equipment
• Transformers, breakers, switchgear, disconnects, and bus systems
• Substation safety and grounding practices
• Electrical theory and system operations
• Aerial lifts and work at heights
• Applicable OSHA, NESC, NEC, and NFPA 70E requirements

Relay & Controls / Protection

Experience with:

• Protective relaying and control systems
• Relay testing and troubleshooting
• Protection and control equipment
• Substation control systems
• Electrical testing and commissioning
• CTs, PTs, breakers, and associated protection equipment
• Relay/control schematics and electrical drawings

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• 4+ years of relevant technical/field experience in the candidate's area of specialization.
• Strong hands‑on experience in distribution linework, transmission linework, substation electrical work, or relay/protection and controls.
• Strong understanding of utility safety standards and work practices.
• Previous experience training, coaching, mentoring, or leading field personnel is strongly preferred.
• Strong communication and presentation skills with the ability to explain technical concepts clearly.
• Ability to work in classroom, laboratory, training‑yard, and field environments.
• Ability to demonstrate applicable hands‑on technical skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and training‑related computer applications is preferred.
• CDL, applicable licenses, certifications, or specialized utility qualifications may be required depending on the assignment.

Ideal Candidate Background

We welcome experienced professionals with backgrounds such as:

• Distribution Lineworker
• Transmission Lineman
• Utility Technician
• Utility Trainer / Instructor
• Electrical Training Instructor

Working Conditions

• Combination of classroom, laboratory, training yard, and outdoor field environments.
• Frequent standing, walking, climbing, and working around utility equipment.
• Ability to work at heights and in various weather conditions where applicable.
• Travel may be required, generally up to 25–50% depending on the assignment.
• Candidates must be able to perform the physical requirements associated with their technical specialty.

If you have strong hands‑on utility experience and enjoy training, coaching, and developing the next generation of utility professionals, we'd like to hear from you.