Since its foundation in 1986, Thompson Construction Group, Inc. has grown from a small, local company into one of the largest privately held companies based in South Carolina. Our diverse services portfolio includes capital projects, power services, maintenance services, disaster recovery, hydro consulting and commercial construction. We believe in investing in our employees to help them reach their professional goals, as well as their personal goals. Thompson promotes a work environment that fosters learning, leadership, and development along with a safety culture that never waivers. Thompson is headquartered in Sumter, South Carolina with offices spanning the United States, primarily southeast and central United States.
Position Description
We are seeking a skilled and safety-focused Hydro-Electric Balance of Plant (BoP) Construction Electrician to join our team on hydroelectric power projects. This role is responsible for installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting electrical systems that support plant infrastructure outside of the turbine-generator units, including substations, switchyards, and auxiliary systems. The ideal candidate has strong industrial construction experience and is comfortable working in demanding field environments.
Job Responsibilities
- Install, terminate, and test electrical wiring, conduits, cable trays, and raceways
- Read and interpret electrical drawings, schematics, and construction plans
- Install and connect transformers, switchgear, control panels, and distribution systems
- Perform grounding, bonding, and lightning protection installations
- Support substation and switchyard construction activities
- Inspect, test, and troubleshoot electrical systems and components
- Ensure compliance with project specifications, electrical codes, and safety standards
- Work collaboratively with engineers, supervisors, and other trades
- Maintain tools, equipment, and a clean, organized work area.
- Follow all safety procedures, including lockout/tagout (LOTO)
- Other duties as assigned.
- Minimum Required Tool List:
- 1 each Multi-Voltage Tester
- 1 each 9” Side Cutters
- 2 each 440 Channel Locks
- 1 set 5/16” to ½” Nut Drivers
- 1 set 3/8” to 3/4\" Open End Wrenches
- 1 each #14 thru #10 Lug Crimp Tool (T&B)
- 1 each Needle Nose Pliers
- 1 each Tool Box or Bag w/lock
- 1 each Hack Saw and Blade
- 1 set Allen Wrenches
- 1 set Flat Head Screw Drivers (assorted sizes)
- 1 each Large Phillip Head Screw Driver
- 1 each Small Phillip Head Screw Driver
- 1 set 3/8” to 3/4” Drive Sockets w/ratchet
- 1 each 9” Level
- 1 each 8” and 10” Crescent Wrenches
- 1 pair Leather Gloves
- 1 each 25’ Tape Measure
- 1 each Center Punch
- 1 each Hammer
- 1 each Working Flash Light
- 1 each Tri-Square or Speed Square
- 1 each Pad and Pencil
- 1 each Wire Stripper
- 1 each Diagonal Cutters
Job Qualifications
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Must have completed Construction Electrician Course at a technical or trade school with at least 1 year of experience in the field or a minimum of 3 years of experience working as Electrician Helper in the field.
- In some cases, the Electrician may be required to have state or local certifications.
- Must be able to read, write and communicate clearly with supervisor/co-workers and understand direction from supervisor and welder.
- Utilize basic math and calculator, read tape measure and understand operation and usage of volt meter/multimeter.
- High school diploma or GED (technical training preferred)
- Journeyman Electrician license or equivalent certification
- 3–5+ years of industrial or heavy construction electrical experience
- Experience with substations, switchyards, or power generation projects preferred
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings
- Working knowledge of electrical codes and safety standards (NEC preferred)
- Candidate may be required to pass a drug test and criminal background check based on job location/requirements.
Preferred Skills/Qualifications
- Experience on hydroelectric or renewable energy projects
- Familiarity with high-voltage systems
- Cable pulling and termination (low and medium voltage)
- Experience with electrical testing equipment (megger, insulation resistance, continuity)
- Ability to operate construction equipment such as lifts.
- OSHA 10/30
- NFPA70E
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift 50+ lbs and perform physically demanding tasks
- Comfortable working at heights, in confined spaces, and near water
- Willingness to work extended hours, overtime, and travel across multiple jobsites
Work Environment
This position is based on active construction sites, often in remote or rural locations. Work is sometimes performed outdoors in varying weather conditions and may involve exposure to heavy equipment, noise, and high-voltage systems.
Benefits
- We strive to provide a competitive compensation and benefits package. This includes but is not limited to medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k), wellness programs and career development.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
