WIDE OPEN UTILITY SERVICE, LLC - JOB DESCRIPTIONS
Vegetation Management
TITLE: GENERAL LABORER, Hourly
REPORTS TO: Crew Leader – Vegetation Management
SUPERVISES: None
OBJECTIVE
Enhance the reliability of electric service delivered to Nolin RECC members by assisting crew members in keeping overhead distribution lines clear of trees, tree limbs, vines, and other growth that might cause service to be interrupted. Keeps informed and complies with all safety policies, procedures, rules, and regulations.
RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Demonstrates working knowledge of Nolin RECC’s overhead electrical system policies and practices, including but not limited to the following: right-of-way clearances, weed control, equipment maintenance and employee conduct.
2. Aids in the maintenance of right-of-way clearance on energized overhead distribution lines by removing trees and brush from the ground level and into a chipper or trailer.
3. Disposes of waste products in a manner that is consistent with Wide Open Utility Service procedures.
4. Sprays right-of-way with approved chemicals and performs other work associated with keeping overhead lines clear of vegetation using recommended techniques and procedures.
5. Places work signs and barricades around work areas; patrol lines, looking for defective material, equipment, or unsafe conditions; notifies supervisor of problem areas.
6. Responsible for the proper care of company equipment, tools, and property. Ensures personal tools are kept in a safe condition and follows proper uniform guidelines.
7. Learns and practices first aid and CPR; participates in monthly safety meetings. Completes and follows all OSHA and APPA training and standards.
8. Works according to Wide Open Utility Service safety and driving guidelines, reports all accidents immediately, and is responsible for the safety of the assigned area.
9. Conducts self in a manner which would lead to the best possible working relationship between the employee and other members of the crew and/or employees of Nolin RECC. Answers all member inquiries promptly and courteously and/or refers them to appropriate leader.
10. Maintains familiarity with OSHA “Right-to-Know” regulations as they pertain to chemical substances, etc., found or used in the work area.
11. Patrols lines as required after completion of work or for quality control.
12. Assists in maintaining grounds as needed (i.e. mowing, weed eating, and landscaping).
13. May be requested to perform apprentice trimmer job duties for evaluation of potential promotion opportunities.
GENERAL LABORER
JOB SPECIFICATIONS
EDUCATION/ EXPERIENCE: High school diploma or equivalent. Landscaping, vegetation management, or general laborer experience preferred.
KNOWLEDGE:
- Understands Wide Open Utility Service’s safety and driving guidelines.
- Maintains a thorough understanding of tree trimming techniques, equipment maintenance, vegetation control procedures and right-of-way clearance distances using the Nolin RECC construction manual and the NEC and NESC electrical codes.
- Maintains knowledge of Nolin RECC’s mapping system.
- Understands the proper/safe use of tools and equipment for safety purposes.
- Understands Wide Open Utility Service’s departmental relationships/functions and workflow between crew members.
CONTACTS:
- Maintains a courteous and cooperative relationship with employees and the public.
- Internal: daily positive interface with employees at all levels within Wide Open Utility Service and Nolin RECC.
- External: Nolin RECC members (professional and courteous correspondence), Cooperatives (emergency situations at other locations).
ABILITIES AND SKILLS:
- Demonstrates initiative, good judgment and ability, and a willingness to assume responsibility.
- Must be able to read and write legibly and take direction from leadership.
- Understands Wide Open Utility Service policies/ procedures.
- Must be able to learn and apply technical information.
- Must be able to lift, work in awkward positions, use and operate equipment including wood- chipper, winches, drills and chainsaws.
- Relates and empathizes with employees/members and maintains a professional demeanor.
- Reacts quickly in the event of emergency and hostile situations.
- Works in a positive team environment.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
- Outside work in all types of weather, temperatures, terrain, and road conditions.
- May be exposed to nature, irritating plants, biting or stinging insects, dust, etc.
- Frequently may encounter obstacles including fences, encounters with animals and the public.
- Works around excessive noise from machinery, chainsaws, and wood-chippers while wearing hearing protection.
- Potential hazards could include unlevel ground, falling limbs/debris and hazardous equipment.
- Must be available to work irregular hours including nights, weekends, and holidays. Must be available to work during outages.
OTHER:
- Must possess a valid driver's license (subject to periodic, reasonable cause, post- accident, and random drug/alcohol testing).
- Must complete all required training and may be asked to attend additional training courses relating to the position and the cooperative industry or work during restorations which may require overnight travel.
- First Aid and CPR certification required.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $14.00 - $16.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
License/Certification:
- Driver's License (Required)
Work Location: In person
