Description

POSITION SUMMARY

Under the general direction of the Electric Superintendent, this position is responsible for the construction, operation, maintenance and repair of overhead and underground electric distribution systems and associated equipment up to 15kV throughout the Coldwater Board of Public Utilities nine (9) square mile service territory.  This position is subject to frequent after-hours duty, will be required to be on stand-by status and live within a 25-mile radius.

RESPONSIBILITIES, ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND FUNCTIONS

• Operate, construct, maintain and repair all electrical distribution and substation equipment from 120 volt to 15kV power distribution overhead and underground
• Install poles, cross arms, transformers, switch assemblies, voltage regulators and other related equipment on the distribution system
• Operate 15kV and 138kV substation equipment including circuit breakers, circuit switchers, disconnect switches and fused switches
• Locate malfunctions in system through troubleshooting and oversee and participate in testing of system from 120 volts to 15KV equipment
• Operate bucket trucks, derrick diggers, excavators, fork trucks, cranes and other related vehicles and equipment
• Respond to emergency situations involving the flow of electricity or public safety
• Install medium and high voltage metering equipment for aerial and pad-mount systems
• Work on secondary systems including service transformers, aerial and underground conductors, service drops, public outdoor lighting, and metering
• Perform work in accordance with all applicable safety policies, programs, procedures to assure a safe working environment for all personnel and the general public
• Keep abreast of relevant profession, industry, and utility developments
• Responsible for special projects as may be assigned by the Line Lead, Line Crew Leader or Electric Superintendent
• Assist in training of Apprentice Lineman
• Perform all other duties as assigned

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Must be physically mobile
• Must be able to climb elevated structures or into confined spaces
• Must be able to climb poles up to 100’ above ground
• Must be able to operate heavy equipment such as bucket trucks, fork lifts, backhoes, trenchers, etc.
• Must be able to lift 100 pounds or more
• Must be mechanically inclined
• Must be able to stand, use hands to finger, handle/feel, reach with hands/arms, walk, talk, hear, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl
• Must be able to work outside in varying weather conditions

QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of fundamentals of electricity related to the operation, construction, maintenance of distribution and transmission lines and equipment 
• Knowledge and proficiency of electrical safety including bucket and pole top rescue, arc flash, grounding, and shock hazard 
• Proficiency in constructing, maintaining and repairing overhead and underground electrical systems and substations
• Working knowledge of practices, materials, tools and equipment of the trade
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills 
• Ability to communicate effectively with crew, management and the public
• Ability to make decisions under duress of emergency situations, time constraints or long hours
• Ability to read and interpret electrical prints, maps and schematics 
• Ability to organize and prioritize to meet critical deadlines 
• Ability to work closely and effectively with personnel 
• Ability to remain calm under high pressure situations 
• Ability to problem solve and able to make precise and complete evaluations of problems
• Effective time management
• Self-motivated
• General understanding of Microsoft Office products (i.e., Word, Excel, etc.)

Requirements

• High school graduate or equivalent
• Completion of an Apprenticeship Program resulting in recognition as a Department of Labor certified Journeyman status
• Electric utility experience preferred
• Must have a valid Michigan driver's license
• Must have a valid Michigan Class A CDL license with the ability to obtain a tanker endorsement