Underground Lineman
The Underground Lineman is responsible for the safe installation, maintenance, repair, and replacement of underground electrical distribution systems in accordance with company policies, customer specifications, and applicable industry standards. This position requires extensive knowledge of underground electrical construction practices, the ability to interpret construction drawings, and a commitment to maintaining a safe and productive work environment.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
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Install, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair underground electrical distribution systems.
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Excavate, install, and backfill underground conduit, cable, transformers, pedestals, switchgear, and related electrical facilities.
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Install and terminate primary and secondary underground power cables.
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Set transformers, junction boxes, pedestals, meter bases, and other underground electrical equipment.
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Perform cable pulling, splicing preparation, grounding, and equipment connections.
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Read and interpret construction drawings, staking sheets, utility maps, and work orders.
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Operate equipment such as mini excavators, backhoes, skid steers, trenchers, digger derricks, and bucket trucks in a safe and efficient manner.
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Conduct pre-job safety meetings (JSA), identify workplace hazards, and ensure all work complies with OSHA, company, and utility safety standards.
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Inspect completed work to ensure compliance with project specifications and quality standards.
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Coordinate daily activities with supervisors, crew members, inspectors, and utility representatives.
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Maintain accurate daily reports, production documentation, equipment inspections, and material usage records.
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Respond to emergency outages, service restorations, and storm restoration efforts when required.
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Perform preventive maintenance on assigned equipment and maintain a clean, organized work area.
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Mentor and train apprentices and less experienced crew members on proper underground construction techniques and safe work practices.
Daily Tasks
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Review daily work assignments, project drawings, and safety requirements.
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Perform pre-trip inspections of trucks, trailers, and equipment.
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Conduct Job Safety Analysis (JSA) and daily crew safety meetings.
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Locate existing underground utilities before excavation.
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Excavate trenches and install conduit systems.
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Pull, install, and terminate underground primary and secondary cable.
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Install transformers, pedestals, switchgear, and other underground electrical equipment.
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Restore job sites through proper backfilling, compaction, and cleanup.
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Complete daily production reports, equipment inspections, and required documentation.
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Communicate project progress, safety concerns, and field issues to supervisors and customers.
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Ensure all tools, vehicles, and equipment are properly maintained and secured at the end of each workday.
Required Skills
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Thorough knowledge of underground electrical distribution construction.
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Ability to read and interpret utility construction prints and specifications.
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Experience operating construction equipment and commercial vehicles.
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Strong understanding of OSHA regulations and utility safety procedures.
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Ability to troubleshoot underground electrical systems.
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Strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
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Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and perform physically demanding tasks.
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Ability to work overtime, emergency callouts, and storm restoration as needed.
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CDL is a Plus, but not a requirement.
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Knowledge in performing distribution switching to isolate bad cable, and switch back after repair work has been completed.
