Job Title: Underground Journeyman Lineman
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Summary
The Underground Journeyman Lineman is responsible for the installation, maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting of underground electrical power distribution systems. This role performs energized and de-energized underground work, including cable pulling, splicing, terminations, fault locating, and switching operations. The position requires a strong understanding of underground electrical systems, strict adherence to safety protocols, and the ability to work in physically demanding field environments.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Install, maintain, and repair underground electrical power distribution systems.
- Perform underground cable pulling, splicing, and terminations using approved tools and methods.
- Conduct live-line maintenance (gloving) and hot-stick work on energized systems where qualified.
- Investigate, troubleshoot, locate, and repair underground cable faults using diagnostic equipment.
- Assist with switching, tagging, and outage restoration activities as required.
- Operate trenching equipment, digger derricks, cable pullers, hydraulic tools, and related machinery.
- Read and interpret electrical prints, blueprints, schematics, work orders, and system diagrams.
- Work in trenches, vaults, conduits, and confined spaces while maintaining situational awareness and safety compliance.
- Lead or participate in Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) pre-job and post-job meetings.
- Maintain compliance with OSHA standards, company safety policies, and PPE requirements.
- Communicate effectively with crew members, supervisors, and other project personnel.
- Complete daily reports, documentation, and work orders related to installation and maintenance activities.
- Provide guidance and training to assigned personnel and support development toward foreman responsibilities.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Strong understanding of underground power distribution systems and electrical theory.
- Proficiency in underground cable rehabilitation techniques and equipment.
- Knowledge of national and local electrical codes and safety regulations.
- Ability to safely work near energized high-voltage electrical systems.
- Skilled in the use of hand tools, power tools, and diagnostic equipment.
- Ability to respond effectively to emergency situations and hazardous conditions.
- Strong communication skills with the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
- Dependable, trustworthy, and able to manage multiple priorities under time constraints.
- Physical ability to lift heavy equipment, climb, crawl, and work in confined or outdoor environments in various weather conditions.
Education and Experience
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Journeyman Lineman certification or minimum of 4–5 years of verifiable underground or journeyman-level electrical experience.
- Completion of a lineman apprenticeship program or equivalent field experience preferred.
- Minimum of 2–4 years of underground electrical work experience preferred.
- Valid Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) required, with acceptable driving record.
- Experience working on and around energized high-voltage primary electric lines required.
Pre-Employment Requirement
Candidates who accept an offer of employment are required to undergo and successfully complete a pre-employment physical examination. This exam ensures that all potential employees meet the necessary health and fitness standards for the role. The examination includes a series of tests and evaluations conducted by a certified medical professional to assess overall physical health, identify any potential medical conditions that could interfere with job performance, and verify that the candidate is capable of safely performing the essential duties of the position. Completion and clearance of this physical are mandatory steps in the hiring process.